This is about democracy.

Not in the existential way that we’re currently experiencing on a national and global level, but in a let’s-just-make-sure way in our own backyard. To be clear, I love Walpole and think our local government is managed well; I do not think our town’s democracy is in jeopardy. But I do think there is room for improvement, especially when it comes to residents having a voice and being better represented.

After all, one of the keys to a strong democracy is an empowered citizenry, where “the people are the principal actors and citizens are empowered when their rights are protected, they are informed, and fellow citizens and policymakers proactively engage them in the democratic process.”1

Through conversations with many Walpole residents, it’s clear that most are unaware what a Representative Town Member is or who their elected Representative Town Members are. Not knowing this basic information has caused residents to be uninformed and unengaged. I intend to change that.

I’m running for RTM to bring better representation to Precinct 8.

I want to be someone to whom residents can express their thoughts and ask questions. I want to properly represent them at semi-annual town meetings and vote on their behalf instead of how I alone would vote.

My Plan for Better Representation

  • Provide easy access to me via website, email, social media and more
  • Provide information and thoughts on current and proposed town business
  • In the weeks leading up to a town meeting, solicit feedback from residents on what’s at stake
  • Remind voters about how, when and where to vote

I want to be an active force for the change I want to see in our community. I want to be part of a local government that represents the interests of all its citizens.

Voting for Jim Moeller on May 20 will help strengthen our local democracy.

 

 

1 Center for High Impact Philanthropy, University of Pennsylvania, https://www.impact.upenn.edu