Letter To The Editor Roundup: Burlington Town Election

BURLINGTON, MA — The following letters were submitted to Burlington Patch by residents.

To submit a letter to the editor email chris.huffaker@patch.com.

The town election is April 10. There is a contested race for the Board of Selectmen.

>>Burlington Election Final List: Dozens Run For Town Offices

Letter from Town Meeting Member David Miller

When I was first elected as a Town Meeting Member and was a political novice, Shari took me under her wing and got me involved with the effort to save the Landlocked Forest. She had a prominent role in that successful effort. I served with her (at her coaxing) on the committee that was instrumental in establishing a permanent, standing Zoning Bylaw Review Committee. That was, and is, a really big deal for the Town and Shari has served as Chair of that committee since the beginning. I have personally seen her in action at our Town Meetings as well as numerous Planning Board meetings. She continually attends many, many Board of Selectman meetings, Zoning Board of Appeals meetings, and Conservation Commission meetings. As a small example of this, Shari took an interest in a development project under construction behind my house and attended Planning Board meetings on the matter so she could advise me on how to handle the situation.

Shari is passionate about making Burlington a better place to live. When she takes on a cause, she stays focused on it until there is a resolution. Her ability to accomplish so much is because of her incredible energy and insight into the inner workings of all aspects of town government and town politics. Shari Ellis will make an absolutely great addition to the Board of Selectmen.

David Miller
19 Gloria Circle
Town Meeting Member Precinct 4

Letter from assistant tax collector Terri Clement

To The Editor,

I am writing in support of Michael Runyan to be re-elected on April 10 as Selectman. Mike's number one concern as a current Selectman and resident of this town has always been BURLINGTON. As a lifelong resident his deep roots within the community have allowed him to become involved in many aspects within our town. He recently retired from Burlington Fire Department after thirty-one years of service, a career he was totally devoted to. He is constantly giving of himself to the town and our residents year round. An organizer and co-chair for both the Fourth of July events and Senior Center Bingo are just a few of the many activities he is involved in. Supporting and volunteering for several other groups throughout town, you can find his participation several ways such as Wish Tree, Boy/Girl Scouts, Veterans groups and others; always willing to lend a hand.

Mike's years at with BHA have given him strong insight into affordable housing, low-income housing and senior housing needs, all of which he has brought with him to his position as Selectman. The need for affordable housing remains a top concern of his and he works hard at making his ideas reality.

As a Selectman, Mike has an independent thought process that has shown many times by being the only opposition to a vote. He would rather stand alone than compromise his beliefs. His easy going personality which makes him so approachable and a willingness to listen to everyone and respect others points of view are also welcome traits.

I ask that you give Mike your vote on April 10th and re-elect him to The Board of Selectmen (Select Board) enabling him to continue doing great things for Burlington.

I LIKE MIKE

Thank you,
Terri Clement
1 Holly St.
Burlington, Ma.

Letter from Planning Board Chairwoman Barbara L'Heureux

Dear Editor,

I am pleased and proud to endorse Shari Ellis for Board of Selectmen. Shari has been working hard for Burlington for many years. As a Town Meeting leader, Shari lent her skills to the Land Use Committee before starting the Zoning Bylaw Review Committee. She volunteers for Meals on Wheels and serves on the Northwest Park housing committee, demonstrating her deep commitment to the town’s seniors. Shari steps up again and again to work selflessly for the town she loves. I can honestly state that I do not know of anyone who works harder, prepares better, or cares more deeply about Burlington than Shari Ellis.

I have had the pleasure of working with Shari on various Planning Board initiatives and have always been impressed with her keen intellect and her creative, collaborative approach to problem-solving. Shari asks the right questions and does the research to come to the best solution for Burlington. Shari is thoughtful, detail-oriented and thorough. Our Board of Selectmen needs a woman like Shari. It’s what Burlington residents deserve.

Burlington is facing many fiscal challenges in 2021 and beyond. Shari is the leader we need to help us navigate the post-COVID world. Please join me in voting for Shari Ellis for Board of Selectman on April 10. To learn more about Shari and her service to our town, visit www.ellisforburlington.com.

Barbara L’Heureux
10 Woodside Lane

These letters were produced by their authors. The views expressed are the authors' own.