Weekend Jotes

Well it finally happened, I took a day off from posting yesterday (and all most decided not to do one today).  It seems the world did not end after all.

I am still struggling a bit with an inner debate on a few things, specifically some things that need to be addressed and the manner in which to address them.  Just a small dilemma that will be resolved soon.

The charter commission petition drive seems to be slowly building steam.  People have been making contact.  A number of people have expressed interest in getting signatures, and there are a number who are actually getting them. Sharon Andersen is still the point person in this effort.  the contact e-mail for the charter commission petition drive is fairhavenchartercommission@gmail.com.  She, me, we could use your help.

With the upcoming election, it is felt we should wait until that passes to try to hold a meeting to get organized a bit more effectively.  Some have all ready stated a willingness to help but due to commitments related to campaigns they will have to wait till then.  Perfectly understandable.  

There is a facebook page up for the petition drive.  Very bare bones at this point, but it is up. https://www.facebook.com/FairhavenCharterCommissionPetitionDrive.

Some points to throw out right now: 

First and foremost, the petitions do not establish a charter commission.  The signatures will only allow the question to be place on the ballot in April, 2013.  The voters will decide whether the commission should be formed and on the same ballot will elect those who will serve.

Even if you believe this is not needed, please consider the fact that there are many in town who feel it is long overdue.  The vote to on whether or not to establish such a commission will settle that question.  

Before any proposed charter can take place, the voters will again have to decide. 

There will be hearings throughout the roughly 18 month process and ample opportunity for people to provide input. 

I don't know who will be elected, I honestly do not know if I will even decide to run at this point.  The one thing I have made a decision on, in which there is no doubt in my mind, that the time has in fact come to get to get the matter on the ballot.  If the town as a whole votes against the concept, then at least the town as a whole will have had the opportunity to make that decision, and people will have the knowledge of what the town wants.

Elections

I am assuming the candidates will be making their full court press starting this week.  Less then a month to go.  Make the effort to get to know who is running and why they are.  Find out what they intend to do and just as importantly how they intend to do it

As an FYI  I understand that one candidate for school committee withdrew the nomination papers.  That still leaves three running for two seats.

We have 7 contested races this year.  

Coupled with the fact all town meeting seats are up for grabs, it is going to be a pretty full ballot.  

Don't ignore the town meeting candidates.  Cast your ballot wisely.

Just a thought before I go.  This year there are going to be budget cuts.  There is no getting around it.  Let your elected officials and the candidates know what you consider to be your priorities.  Have them let you know the same.