Mayoral Candidate Meet and Greet

Let me begin by noting that it’s not my intention to debate political issues here – much better outlets exist for that kind of discussion (e.g. Save Fitchburg). I have absolutely no plans of using this blog to throw my support behind (or, alternatively, to berate) any candidates.

What I DO want to call attention to, however, is how fortunate we are to live in a city with a relatively accessible political process. Last night, Ward 1 councilor Dave Clark hosted a “meet and greet” session with the current candidates for mayor in place of the monthly neighborhood meeting. The event was very well organized. Each candidate was introduced by Councilor Clark, who read aloud a statement provided to him by the candidate. Candidates were then given five minutes to use as they pleased. Some read prepared statements, while others spoke informally of their backgrounds. A few candidates set aside time for questions. Those who did not have prior commitments remained to speak with residents after the formal program concluded.

Following the event, Councilor Clark acknowledged to me his relief that the audience had remained courteous and refrained from “heckling” certain candidates. While I cannot say I always agree with Clark’s views, he is to be commended for the example that he set at last night’s meeting. Throughout his opening comments, he stressed that we are early in the election season and that the intent of the evening was not to serve as a debate, as those are best saved for the fall. He treated all candidates with the utmost respect, including those whom he does not personally support. Overall, he staged an evening that demonstrated they way in which politics would play out in a more polite, sincerely engaged society.

In this manner, I would encourage everyone out there to take some time in the coming months to learn more about our candidates for mayor (in alphabetical order, and with links provided for those candidates with campaign websites): Ted DeSalvatore, Ronald Dionne, Thomas Donnelly, Dan Mylott [addendum: Mylott has withdrawn his candidacy], and Lisa Wong. Represented in the field of candidates are a variety of different races, ages, academic backgrounds, and community and professional experiences. Browse the local news sites as the race progresses (links at right), and take a moment to chat when the candidate comes knocking at your door.

I happen to be a scientist by training, and I’m the first to admit that my motivation to follow local politics continues to be a slow, emerging, sometimes reluctant process. But I always try to remind myself that without engaged citizens who take the time to vote in an educated manner, candidate accessibility is for naught. Our Fitchburg politicians are putting themselves out there. Even if we often disagree with them, we owe it to them and to our city to at least take the time to listen. Only then can we expect them to do the same!