Many of us view local government in the same way that we think about the weather: Everybody complains about it, but nobody does anything about it.
However, unlike the weather, there actually is something we can do about the future direction of our local government: We can get out and vote.
We always have found it ironic that the turnout for national elections far exceeds the turnout for local elections, even though local government has a much more direct impact on our daily lives than the state and federal governments.
Our local government officials are responsible for just about everything that affects the quality of life in our communities, including our schools, public safety departments, trash collection, snow removal, street repair, zoning regulations, etc., etc., etc.
The policies enacted by those who are in charge of our local government have a direct impact on the property values of our homes, which for most of us are the most significant asset we own.
Cities across the state (and in the town of Winthrop) are holding elections this coming Tuesday, November 4. This election season has been particularly contentious in our little seaside community thanks primarily to the state mandate pursuant to the MBTA Communities Act, also known as the 3A law.
Both the candidates and their supporters have made it clear where they stand on this important issue. Whether the next Town Council implements the law, or refuses to do so, will have a far-reaching impact on both the present and future of our community.
We urge all of our readers to take the time to get out and vote in order to elect those leaders who best reflect the values and goals for ourselves, our families, and our community.