A Tale of Two Littletons
Littleton has once again set itself apart with its particular brand of politics with a close, one-on-one election that drew about 30% of the voters in what would otherwise might have been a “sleeper” election year.
It was clear that this campaign had two very different styles: the campaign of politics and the campaign of service. Sides were drawn and feelings ran strong. Nothing occurred in this election that would have lessened the rivalry between my opponent and me or our respective supporters, just like three years ago. That was the unfortunate part. By the way, when you clear away all the political posturing, the fact of the matter is that we weren't so far apart on the issues. The biggest difference was really the philosophies by which we will conduct our service to the public.
One thing that was troubling to me was written endorsement of some public officials. "The Gang of 20 "we dubbed it in the McCurdy Campaign circles. I want to be clear, it wasn’t troubling because of who they supported, but for its potential implications as we move ahead. It almost creates our own version of "party lines" here in Littleton. I can assure you that I don't care whose side you were on then; this is about now and now is the time to go forward and work together. After all, isn’t that what the whole election process is about?
If there are some who harbor ill feelings, I hope you can put them aside with the greater good in mind. I certainly have. I hope my opponent will call me with the customary congratulations conversation. This would go a long way in reassuring everyone the animosity will be set aside, on both sides.
There is much to do in getting the zoning overlay education and dialog moving and adopted; implementing the Code of Conduct & Ethics among the various committees; working on a comprehensive re-vamping of our capital planning and the study of our infrastructure needs. (And, yes, that does include the role that sewering might play in the future.) There is also work to be done to find new economic development opportunities. The list is long, the challenges daunting. There are two ways to best ensure we do the right things on behalf of the Town. One is that is work together no matter where you made camp and the second that we conduct ourselves openly, respectfully and reflectively. As always, I welcome the input and counsel of everyone, including those who campaigned for my opponent. That was then and this is now. We all love this Town so let’s get to work!
posted by Alex McCurdy at
5:58 PM
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