ATHENS — With Town Meeting Day, Tuesday, March 2, rapidly approaching, the voters of Athens will be asked to elect town officials. I will support Matt Perry as road commissioner and Janet Perry for Selectboard.
Matt has been a road employee in Athens for the past 23 years. He was elected road commissioner in March 2019, when the road commissioner at that time retired.
Since Matt's promotion to road foreman and becoming road commissioner, you may have noticed great improvements in the maintenance of our town roads. He and Eugene Bills have been dedicated to the infrastructure of our roads, focusing on reducing the cost of maintenance while improving road safety. Matt is also conducting an aggressive pursuit of state road grants to improve our existing roads.
In addition, Matt and Eugene have steadily increased the level of in-house repairs and maintenance to all our equipment, resulting in significant savings to taxpayers.
As road commissioner, Matt's primary focus will always be “Athens first.” I believe that his opponent's obligations - both to the town of Grafton and to his personal business - could potentially compromise Athens in situations whereby natural disasters may impact his opponent's loyalty, dedication, and focus on Athens. Where will his opponent's commitment lie in the event of an emergency?
Over the years, Janet Perry, my choice for Selectboard, has always demonstrated her commitment to the well-being of the town of Athens.
When necessary, she has respectfully voiced her concerns. Over the years, Janet and I have been on opposite sides of several town issues, but never for a moment have I ever doubted her commitment to acting in the best interest of our town. I truly respect her for this.
Janet serves as a member of our town's budget committee, working tirelessly to reduce town expenses. She is also a town auditor, justice of the peace, and a member of the town Planning Committee.
As owners of M&M Farms in Athens, Janet and her family have contributed to the annual Grafton Cares barbecue and the Community Christian Church of Athens men's prayer breakfast. I believe she will be focused on all issues facing our town. She will not be a one-issue-focused candidate.
Please join me in supporting Janet and Matt.