Donald Anderson

Ballot Position #11

ELCAT Intro Video 

1) What is the role of a council member? 

Simply stated the purpose is serving as the Town’s Legislative Branch of government with some specific executive functions. In the past the Town Meeting served as the Legislative while the Board of Selectmen had the Executive functions. So typical Town Meeting functions such as budget approval, by-law and zoning, along with others are the job of the Council. The hiring of a Town Manager, an executive function, is also the responsibility of the Town Council. The Council member, being an elected official, will be the voice of East Longmeadow residents. What good is a voice unless you can listen? They key is to act in the overall interest of the Town. My 23 years as an elected member of the Planning Board made me keenly aware of this. There will be matters that are for the benefit of the Town as a whole, while a few citizens are against it.  The key is to listen to all sides and act for the good of the Town.  I can tell you this is not always an easy task.   

2) Are you in favor of a split or single tax rate? Why? 

Our tax classification hearings are typically in the fall and, as I recall, this question often comes up. Historically the Town has voted on a single rate.  While I am always open to new ideas, I support the single rate. Back when I was in government, it cost the Town about $7,000 per student in our public school systems.  So even with the income from a larger home  with two kids in the schools, the net effect was a tax loss for the Town.  We need sources of revenue that generate positive cash, such as when my Board approved the Town’s first ever condominiums and later age restricted communities. New business in properly zoned areas also helps with positive revenue. Keeping business and farms in our community are some of the many core components that make East Longmeadow…East Longmeadow. 

3)What are the most pressing priorities for the first Town council? 

Set up the rules, appoint an acting Town manager, and carefully work on getting the best possible candidate for permanent Town manager.  Review by-laws for areas that have deficiencies or inconsistencies.  One example that was brought to our attention in the Home Rule Charter debate, is that non-residents could be picked for appointed board positions. We need to review this, and draft and approve language to fix this.

4)What are your top three criteria to look for in a Town manager search? 

The Charter Committee set up high standards both in education and experience for the Town manager position. (Article 3, Section 1 ) Beyond that, I would like the candidate to have grant writing skills and work history with various government agencies or departments to bring in untapped grant money. In my perfect world, wouldn’t it be great if the resulting grants helped offset the salary of the Town manager?  Equally important but difficult to screen for, is the personality of the Town manager. The manager is an ambassador for our Town. He/she must have the temperament to actively listen to department heads, and more importantly our residents without treating them in a condescending way. It will be tough to vet for, as some can put on the charm in the interview and then act differently when hired. We can only do our best, but that is something I will, if elected, be looking out for.  

5)What do you expect the weekly time commitment is going to be for a council member?  

Aside from the requisite monthly meeting, there will be possible sub-committee meetings, and additional meetings to get the new government up and running right. The reading, research, and generally getting prepared for meetings will take time. Responding to constituent concerns and engaging with the Town’s people, businesses, churches and civic groups will be a good part of that time.

6) People often make the suggestion that the Town should be run more like a business. What are some significant distinctions between a business and a municipality? 

Well, I try to run both of my businesses to provide the best services to our clients, and make a profit.  I found over my two decades looking at our department budget, that profit is not the end goal in a municipality-services to the community is. It is amazing that there is a need for a department to spend money allocated to it in a municipal budget,  or you run the risk of not getting it in the next fiscal year. Unfortunately, that system seems entrenched from small Towns all the way up to the federal government.  Purchasing items, hiring and promoting all have rules and regulations- not so with your typical small business.  Hopefully we can find some efficiencies and ways to keep budgets in check.   

7) What is your vision for the Town of East Longmeadow in 10 years? 

We need, as required by the Charter, to set up long range planning every 5 years (Article 3 Section 3.3).  The Town Manager, the Council, department heads and citizens will all have a say. My personal vision for East Longmeadow 2026 is a Town with thriving businesses, a full industrial garden district, a mix of residential homes that young working families can afford, as well as upper income subdivisions that we have today.  We need to keep the farms alive and doing well.  Seeing Meadowbrook Farm products in the supermarket still gives me a sense of pride.  We need our public services to be the best in the region with our schools second to none. Both my step-kids went through our schools and have great jobs. This commitment to education of our children here in Town must continue.  Public safety is always a benchmark of a community.  We must continue the great work and community involvement of our Police and Fire men and women.  The work that the DPW does to keep our roads safe and water and sewer lines working is a priority.  The first contact anyone has with our Town is typically when they cross over on our Town streets. We need to protect our wetlands and create development by-laws that work to that end.  We need to consider our ever growing population of elderly citizens with even better programs and facilities. After all, they grew up here and built this great Town. We need to find ways to keep our aging residents in our community with the dignity that they deserve.  

8) The FY 17 capital needs of the Town total over $30,000,000 with just over $1,000,000 in funding from the available budget. This is not inclusive of a new high school. How do you plan, as a councilor, to prioritize maintaining the Town's infrastructure over the next 20 years? 

Our Town buildings and infrastructure is like owning an older home.  As much as we can plan for the inevitable repairs or replacing of items, life gets in the way.  Hypothetically, a roof repair planned for Fiscal Year 2018 may now become necessary in 2017 due to an emergency. We will always need to prioritize, of course.  That is part of the Master Planning question above, but we also need to be aware of state or federal moneys that may become available for a short time, that could accelerate or “give cuts” to a future Capital expenditure.  If I recall, our new Library only had a limited window where if we didn’t act, particular state money would not have been available.   

9) What are pros and cons of being on a Town council with members who have no prior government experience, yet have to implement a new form of government?  

Everyone starts new.  I started in 1988 and was told by Planning Board members to simply listen at first and understand there would be a learning curve.  Even though I dealt with real estate law, I didn’t know about “berm”, “detention or retention basins”, let alone the practical application of our subdivision control laws. It all came together in a relatively short time.  As we saw recently, it is valuable to know open meeting laws as well as Robert’s Rules of Order. People will learn, as we all do.  It excites me with the number of new people in the race, and I really do root for all of them, whether in this election or in another.  I am confident the voters will put together a great team for this first ever Town Council.  Whether I am on the sideline or on the field,  I am so happy to see our Town’s people so active and taking control of how we are governed.  Bravo, Team East Longmeadow !!   

10) As a member the legislative body of the Town, how will you ensure that your voice represents the will of the voters? 

This is an easy one. Those familiar with me know that I had always voted on matters in, what I truly believed, the best interests of our Town as a whole.  It is easy to not take into account the will of the silent majority who did not show up for the public hearing, when only a vocal few attend to oppose a matter simply because it was in their backyard.  Don’t get me wrong, my record from 1988-2011 shows I listened to their concerns always, and when proper points were brought up that the proposal was in violation of our bylaws, I would oppose the project. We did afford the petitioner the chance to modify and do it the right way.  When they did not, the proposal was still denied.

Eric Madison

Ballot Position #19

ELCAT Intro Video

1.     What is the role of a council member?

The role of a Town Councilor under the new Charter is primarily as a legislator of town business. In this capacity the Councilor will vote on the Town’s Legislative business such as budget, bylaws, zoning and capital improvements. Under the Charter, the Town Council also has some executive responsibilities such as hiring a Town Manager, being the Town’s Licensing Authority, and confirming some appointments made by the Town Manager. The most important role of a Councilor is to represent his/her constituents (the residents) in the execution of the above noted responsibilities. To do so, the councilor must avail him or herself to the residents, interacting with them to understand their needs and desires for the community. On issues the residents are silent; the Councilor must cast their votes in the best interest of the community as a whole.

2.     Are you in favor of a split or single tax rate? Why?

I favor a single tax rate. I believe a split tax rate places an unreasonable tax burden on small business, and ultimately impacts the employment opportunities in town. Although I favor reducing the tax rate for the residents, I believe it is counteractive to do it on the backs of the Town’s employers and small business owners.

A thriving business community is good for everyone. It creates jobs, tax revenue for the town and brings commerce into our community. A split tax rate encourages business to establish elsewhere. Empty stores and commercial or industrial buildings is not good for the Town or its residents, and I believe ultimately increases the share of taxes paid by the residents.

3.     What are the most pressing priorities for the first town council?

There are many very pressing priorities for the Town Council, some of which are outlined in the Charter. Establishing rules of operation, review of the town bylaws and establishing the government structure as outlined in Article 10 of the Charter are just a few of the pressing priorities the Council must confront.

However, in my opinion the most pressing priorities for the Town Council are conducting a thorough and transparent process to recruit and hire the best qualified and most appropriate Town Manager, and to regain the trust of the residents by demonstrating that the government is working in their best interest.

4.     What are your top three criteria to look for in a town manager search?

There are so many criteria that must be considered when hiring a Town Manger it is difficult for me to place some above the others. Especially when we consider the new Town Manager will be charged with the implementation of the Town’s new Charter. With that said, I believe we can all agree that our first Town Manager must be qualified to be the Chief Executive Officer of our $55 million town and its operations. In my opinion he or she should be educated in municipal management, with a proven history of successful municipal leadership and be familiar with the laws of the Commonwealth that govern municipal operations. He or she must work with the Town Council to move the town forward in a positive direction, and in the best interest of the Town. They must possess the skills to manage and motivate the Town’s workforce and lead the planning for managing the growth in our community to retain the high quality of life for our residents.

5.     What do you expect the weekly time commitment is going to be for a council member?

I fully anticipate a there will be many demands on the time of the town Council, especially for the first year or two. Although the Charter requires only monthly meetings, I have no doubt there will be sub-committees to accomplish the variety of work needed to successfully establish to new government as outlined in the charter. The Town Manager search, establishment of Council Rules and review of bylaws are just some of the work that will need to be completed in a reasonably short time. Additionally, I believe to be able to make good decisions, a Councilor must be willing to commit to researching issues, talking to residents and “doing their homework” so they make informed decisions. This requires that the Councilor must be willing to commit to whatever amount of time it takes. In short, I am prepared to commit a great deal of time to fulfill my commitment to the residents.

6.     People often make the suggestion that the Town should be run more like a business. What are some significant distinctions between a business and a municipality?

There are a lot of distinctions between a municipal government and a business. Of course, a municipal government doesn’t make a profit, and is not driven by profits. Essentially, a municipal government exists solely to provide essential services to its residents and to build and maintain an infrastructure for maintaining or improving the quality of life of the residents. Another important distinction is the laws that govern a municipality are completely different than that of a business. This is true for labor laws, finance laws, ethics laws, purchasing and a variety of regulations. In my 35 year career in municipal government, I have heard the expression “run it more like a business” many times. It has been my experience that these statements are frequently made by people who have never worked in government, and lack a full understanding of the laws and regulations that govern municipalities. With that said, there are many practices used in a business that can be useful for a municipality to find efficiencies, cost reductions and improved models.

7.     What is your vision for the Town of East Longmeadow in 10 years?

My vision for East Longmeadow is one that has a harmonious balance between a thriving business community, high property values, and an exceptional quality of life enjoyed by its residents. However, of most importance is the community’s vision. Article 3, Section 2 of the town charter calls for a long range plan developed by the town Manager, Town Council, Department Heads and Residents. This plan should become a road-map for making the community’s vision a reality. I believe the community’s vision should reflect the desires of all the stakeholders, and become a guide or directive to those serving in public office.

8.     The FY 17 capital needs of the Town total over $30,000,000 with just over $1,000,000 in funding from the available budget. This is not inclusive of a new high school. How do you plan, as a councilor, to prioritize maintaining the Town's infrastructure over the next 20 years?

As stated in a previous answer, I believe a community should set its priorities based upon the needs and vision of all the residents, provided in a long range plan. This would allow for long term financial planning to meet the capital needs of the town. The issue is not prioritizing the capital projects, the issue is funding them. I believe through good financial management, a carefully executed debt plan and partnerships between departments and community businesses/organizations most, if not all, of the town’s capital needs can be met. Not unlike our annual budget, the capital budget should be thought out for the long term, with planned execution and priorities consistent with a long range plan.

9.     What are pros and cons of being on a town council with members, who have no prior government experience, yet have to implement a new form of government?

Let’s focus on the pros. I have been fortunate to serve on many state and local boards, committees and commissions. It has been my experience that everyone brings something beneficial to the table. Fresh ideas, untainted prospective and innovative ideas are some of the positive qualities of someone without previous government experience can provide. Although I think prior government experience on the Council is imperative, I also think people without prior experience can bring these positive attributes to the council. Together they become a well-rounded council, and a true representation of the residents of East Longmeadow.

10.  As a member the legislative body of the town, how will you ensure that your voice represents the will of the voters?

First and foremost, listen to them. When they appear at a Council meeting, hear and consider their position. When they call you at home or stop you on the street, hear what they have to say. If elected, I also intend to use social media as a way for the constituency to communicate with me. In today’s world of social media, email and cell phones, it shouldn’t be difficult to be available to the residents of East Longmeadow. When the residents are silent on an issue, I believe a Councilor should cast his/her vote in good faith of doing what is best for the community as a whole.

Kevin Manley

Ballot Position #10

ELCAT Intro Video

1) What is the role of a council member?

Council members’ Provide  community leadership and serve as a voice for the constituency. statutory duties are to be performed, almost without exception, by the council as a whole. For example, the council, not individual members, must supervise administrative officers, formulate policies, and exercise town powers. Council members should devote their official time to problems of basic policy and act as liaisons between the town and the general public. Council members should be concerned, not only with the conduct of daily affairs, but also with the future development of the town. The most important single responsibility of a council member is participation at council meetings. Each council member has full authority to make and second motions, participate in discussions, and vote on every matter before the council. In our charter the Chairman or any three members of the council may call a special meeting. Care should be exercised to give proper notice, however. As individuals, council members have no administrative authority. They cannot give orders or otherwise supervise city employees unless specifically directed to do so by the council. The council has complete authority over all administrative affairs in the town this authority is generally restricted to conducting investigations and establishing policies to be performed by the manager. The council members will appoint a town manager and conduct an annual review of his/her performance annually. The major areas of council authority and responsibility are: Appointment of a town manager, Judging the qualification and election of its own members, Setting and interpreting rules governing its own proceedings, Exercising all the powers of the town that the law does not delegate to others, Legislating for the town,  Directing the enforcement of town ordinances and by-laws, Appointing administrative personnel, commissions and boards, transacting town business, Managing the town's  financial operations / approving the budget submitted by the town manager, Appointing members of the boards, Conducting the town’s intergovernmental affairs, Protecting the welfare of the city and its inhabitants.

2) Are you in favor of a split or single tax rate?

I am in favor of maintaining the current level tax rate utilized by the town. We currently have a level tax rate. This means that all property owners are taxed at the assessed value weather the property is commercial property or residential property. The “split” in split rate comes from the idea of separating residential properties from commercial and industrial properties with a view toward handling the latter differently while preserving the current assessment practices for residential properties. The split in the tax rate focuses on insulating both homeowners and renters from the effects of splitting the roll. The direct effect is the explicit change in revenues caused by the policy choice this results in lower net revenues for businesses.  As a result, these businesses have less income and, on the margin, and hire fewer workers. Once a business is paying more in taxes, it has fewer resources to spend on purchasing goods and labor to produce its products and it consequently buys fewer inputs to its trade and hires fewer employees. The businesses in turn purchase less from their vendors who hire fewer employees. The indirect effect of a split tax rate is, as employees earn less, or as fewer are employed, they purchase fewer goods and services for their personal use—resulting in yet another round of decreases in overall economic activity. Larger business generally will have more capital and resources to absorb the impact of the increased tax payments they would encounter under the split roll. Small firms, however, have less capital and are less capable of absorbing the impacts of the tax increases anticipated under the split roll. Thus they are more vulnerable to failure as a result of the tax increase associated with the split roll. East Longmeadow currently has roughly 20% commercial property, several of the property owners are also residents of the town, and there are several small business that would be negatively impacted by a split rate taxation system. This system also places additional burdens on the assessor’s office as any business run out of a residence would qualify for a portion of the real estate to be taxed at a higher rate. This would place additional strains on the business owners providing services to residents of the town.

3) What are the most pressing priorities for the first Town Council? 

The most pressing issue is to hire a qualified and credentialed Town Manager. Since being elected in April I have been in contact with the Massachusetts Municipal Administration, a non-profit agency that offers assistance and guidance to municipalities in several areas. I have researched the process by which Town Managers are selected, including criteria and qualifications. The process to hire a Town Manager is extensive and lengthy. The process from start to finish normally takes four to six months.  We need to work aggressively to hire and retain a Town Manager that is not only qualified but also a good fit for the community. We need to act responsibly and hire a qualified properly vetted candidate to fill the void of the town administrator who will have the interest of the community at hand while assisting in the recruitment and hiring process of a full time Town Manager. That is why I have researched potential candidates that have the qualifications and education that are required while also committing to serving on an interim basis with no intention of seeking the full time position. There are several candidates that have been vetted by the MMA and can assist in this transition. Additionally, we need to work proactively to recruit and hire a director of Human Resources. This individual will have the responsibility of working to streamline and formalize all functions of the Human Resources department across all factions of the town departments, boards and governance.

4) What are your top three criteria to look for in a town manager search? 

Education:  Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration or Business Administration or related field, Master’s Degree Preferred.

Experience:  Eight to ten years' experience in municipal environment, five of which must have been at the senior management level.  Experience overseeing large programs including operations and capital budgeting is required. An effective, service-oriented manager who respects employees, holds the organization accountable, leads necessary staff development and cultivates high morale.  The town manager should be a manager who seeks to delegate and empower his/her staff; appreciates the strengths of a talented and devoted management team.

Team builder and mentor; committed to developing town staff to their fullest potential, who is a proven Relationship-builder; proactive in establishing constructive and collaborative relationships within the town, organization.

5) What do you expect the weekly time commitment is going to be for a council member? 

I fully understand that to be accessible to the citizens of East Longmeadow the position of Town Council member is a 24 hour a day responsibility. The council will be tasked with implementing a new form of government which will require a significant amount of time. I feel that at a minimum the council members will be required to put in 20 hours a week. This will obviously vary depending on the issues and circumstances that arise during the implementation of the new form of governance. Members of the council should be available to all members of the community and ensure that they are willing to communicate with members of the community at all times. The Council Members should be aware that the position may impact their personal lives, as they may be called upon by the constituency to address concerns as they arise for the citizens.

6) People make the suggestion that the Town should be run more like a business. What are some significant distinctions between a business and a municipality? 

Government” refers to the system and the institution of governing and managing a certain society or country while “business” is the systemic organization of providing industries, services, products, and profits to people. Governments have a wider jurisdiction compared to businesses. Governments also have numerous agencies that cater to public services. The institution provides a sense of equality as well as of national identity. On the other hand, businesses provide people with opportunities to earn and make money with their skills and talents. All businesses are under the government’s control. The government provides the business an opportunity and legality to earn profits in return for taxes. Government laws regarding trade, operations, and transactions are implemented and incorporated in many business laws. A certain corporation or business must adhere to the existing government rules and standards aside from their own business practices and concerns. A government’s head or leader is decided depending on the nature or form of government. The business head is traditionally the owner or the entrepreneur unless another body dismisses the owner for various reasons. A business gains profits by selling goods and services and making use of a market as its intended receivers (of goods and services). On the other hand, a government also earns profits from implemented taxes from eligible workers, businesses, and other various entities. Governments can also earn profits by imposing a transaction fee for a particular service in the various government agencies and offices. A government can also own businesses or corporations to increase its assets. When it is stated that government should run more like a business normally people are referring to perceived waste or inefficiency. At times this perception is accurate and government operates at woefully inefficient levels. This cannot happen in a business as the bottom line is profitability. We can learn from business models how to streamline and improve processes to better serve the community as a whole. We need to keep in mind that the tax payers are the stakeholders in government. We should always remember that we are entrusted to manage tax dollars responsibly.

7) What is your vision for the Town of East Longmeadow in 10 Years?

I envision  4 strategic goals to ensure a sound future for the town of East Longmeadow, these are as follows: 1 - Develop and implement fiscal sustainability policies to support core services that pro-actively ensure the health, safety and welfare of our citizens; attract, develop, and retain a high performing municipal workforce; and fund internal infrastructure needs. 2 - Through collaboration and partnership with town enterprises, other public entities, and private entities, support economic development efforts that attract, retain and create quality jobs to ensure a diverse economic base, a resilient and growing tax base, and thriving neighborhoods. 3 - Maximize resources that provide quality of life services and programs, including adherence to the aforementioned town services, Sustainable Growth and Economic Vitality Goals; enhancing conveniences of or our citizens; preserving environmental resources including our natural landscape; and providing the art, cultural and recreational amenities befitting the size and geographic location of East Longmeadow. 4 - Fully realize the talents and positive contributions of non-profits, private and public entities, civic leaders, political leaders, and engaged citizens to develop a shared sense of community and help achieve Council’s vision. Over the next ten years I would like to see a 24 hour fire department, the establishment of a regional emergency dispatch center, and an updated high school that is competitive with other communities.

8) The FY 17 capital needs of the Town total over  $30,000,000 with just over $1,000,000 in funding from the available budget. This is not inclusive of a new high school. How do you plan, as a councilor, to prioritize maintaining the Town’s infrastructure over the next 20 years? 

When establishing CIP priorities the we should use the following project prioritization and selection process as part of the update to the town's CIP Plan.

1. Each CIP major program area (MPA) establishes criteria to be used in the prioritization of specific projects submitted for funding. These specific criteria are developed in conjunction with Town Council priorities and input from citizens and associated town boards and commissions (if applicable). 

2. The appropriations committee has revenue projections available to determine the amount of resources available for new projects for each new plan. 

3. The Town Manager and representatives from the Town's departments evaluate the various CIP projects. 

4. Within the available funding, the highest priority projects are then selected and funded in the CIP. 

5. CIP program area managers recommend an expenditure plan to the Town Manager, which includes all capital costs and any applicable maintenance and operations (m&o) and/or required short-term financing costs. Program area managers are responsible for the cost estimates of their proposed programs, including future m&o costs related to the implementation of completed projects. 

6. A Preliminary CIP Plan is recommended to the Town Council by the Town Manager along with the operating budget recommendations. 

7. The Town Council reviews the Operating and Preliminary CIP Plan, holds public hearings to allow for citizen input, makes desired alterations, and then officially adopts the budget and establishes

related appropriations as a part of the town's budget process.

9) What are the pros and cons of being on a town council with members, who have no prior government experience, yet have to implement a new form of government?

 The pros of being on the town council with individuals that have no prior government experience: 1. These individuals bring a fresh set of ideas and experience to the table. 2. There are no personal conflicts with existing staff or department heads. 3. They are open to learn the processes and will be willing to accept the changes for the betterment of the town. The cons are: 1. They have limited knowledge of the requirements of the position. 2. They may have an idea what the new form of government entails however these ideas may be far from the intended form of government. 3. The process of educating individuals about the processes while attempting to implement change can prove to be difficult, implementing a new form of government presents its own unique challenges and will be time consuming. Teaching new members with no experience while attempting to implement a new form of government could take away from the effective implementation process which could be a serious issue.  

10) As a member of the legislative body of the town, how will you ensure that your voice represents the will of the voters?

Since being elected as a Selectman I have made every effort to ensure the voice of the community is heard. I have made myself available through various forms of social media, email, and telephone and in person. I will continue to provide these effective forms of communication with the community. Additionally, we should remember that the charter allows for a forum at meetings for public input and discussion. This is an effective way to gauge the needs and desires of the community. The council is a representative form of government, as council members we are beholden to the voters of the community to ensure that they are represented in a fair and impartial manner, this especially important while implementing a new form of government that voters are not familiar with. As council members we should understand that in the initial implementation there will be numerous questions and the community will expect that we provide the answers and leadership needed during the transition. This process will not occur without issues arising that need to be addressed immediately. We should understand that we are going to have to sacrifice our time and energy to address these issues head on and earn the trust of the community. Earning the trust of the community and restoring their faith in the system of government is paramount this will not happen without effective communication and availability.

                  

Michael Kane

Ballot Position #26

ELCAT Intro Video

1.  What is the role of a council member?

 Council members must be available to attend meetings, deliberate, take action, and vote. They should also have experience with interviewing, hiring, conducting background checks, evaluating employees and managers, negotiating contracts, analyzing budgets and creating policies. 

2.  Are you in favor of a split or single tax rate? Why?

On June 23^rd, the Board of Assessors will be conducting a presentation regarding this topic. After reviewing all the options and facts, I feel that I will be better prepared to form an educated decision regarding this matter. There are pros and cons to both forms of taxes.  This meeting will provide council members and the residents an opportunity to listen to all the facts. Our Board of Assessors have experience operating under both tax options. Their findings will help us to find the option that best suits our community.   I have also attached an FY 2016 Tax Rate Option Chart outlining the impact of split tax rates on four classes of properties. 

3.  What are the most pressing priorities for the first town council?

 Priorities for our first town council meeting will include the selection and hiring of our town manager, review of our town budget and employee contracts, as well as town bylaws. Review of all appointed boards and commissions will be necessary to ensure that they are functioning efficiently, coordinating efforts and achieving fiscal responsibility. 

4.  What are your top three criteria to look for in a town manager search?

A town manager’s qualifications must include the education and knowledge needed to run an administration.  Experience as a town manager, or equivalent job experience in the private or public sector is a requirement.  References and a proven track record are essential. 

5.  What do you expect the weekly time commitment is going to be for a council member?

I would expect to meet 3 to 4 times a week and be available for conversations with other council members up to 7 days a week.  I am willing to spend as much time as needed to accomplish specific goals, such as the selection of a town manager. The implementation of our new charter will require a significant amount of time and I look forward to the challenge.  

6.  People often make the suggestion that the town should be run more like a business.  What are some significant distinctions between a business and a municipality?

Municipalities are in place to serve a community’s purpose, unlike a business or corporation. Businesses’ are made up of a group of individuals under the authority of law.  A city’s municipality has the right of administering local government.  Both businesses’ and municipalities’ need to maintain fiscal responsibility to survive. 

7.  What is your vision for the town of East Longmeadow in 10 years?

 My vision for East Longmeadow in the years to come includes, a balanced budget, improved communication between our departments, affordable living for our seniors, 10 plus rating on the education provided from our schools, a better use of the property where A.W. Brown once existed and the Package Machinery property located on Chestnut Street.  

8.  The FY 17 capital needs of the Town total over $30,000,000 with just over $1,000,000 in funding from the available budget.  This is not inclusive of a new high school.  How do you plan, as a councilor, to prioritize maintaining the Town’s infrastructure over the next 20 years?

 This process will start with the election of qualified council members who will be responsible for recruiting and hiring a qualified town manager.  All department budgets need to be monitored, line by line, to ensure a balanced budget. The town must live within its means. The right town manager will find funding through grants and other resources to provide the necessities to maintain our infrastructure annually.  By doing so, this will enable us to avoid costly, unexpected repairs which could lead to override situations.  The council members will need to review the capital improvement program and the annual town budget submitted by our town manager.  Council members need to continuously work with all departments and the town manager to ensure our town is in compliance regarding financial management.  The operation of our town is a moving target. An experienced, dedicated board will ensure success by delegating the principles of the Home Rule Charter and monitoring the town manager’s job performance.

9.  What are the pros and cons of being on a town council with members, who have no prior government experience, yet have to implement a new form of government?

 The implementation of the new charter board should consist of qualified and experienced individuals.  For those candidates who have no prior experience, I would suggest they gain experience by serving their town on other committees that will help prepare them for a council seat in the future.  With a brand new form of government, and limited time, we need the most qualified council members available. Being a council member is NOT an entry- level position.

   

10.  As a member of the legislative body of the town, how will you ensure that your voice represents the will of the voters?

As a council member, it is very clear, that my job description includes listening to the comments, concerns, and suggestions of the residents. Our newly form of government aligns itself with Democracy.  Together, we will decide the best direction for the residents and our town.      

Joe Ford

Ballot Position #23

ELCAT Intro Video

1.     What is the role of a council member? 

Answer: The role of a council member is to act as the legislative body for the Town; a function previously performed by the Town Meeting. The Council’s further obligation is the hire the Town Manager and to establish town polices. As a member of the Council I intend to dedicate most of my efforts on finding the right Town manager for our Town and then my focus will shift to other pressing matters.

2.     Are you in favor of a split or single tax rate? Why? 

Answer: I am not in favor of a split tax because I believe a single tax is the primary reason our industrial park has been so successful and attractive to new businesses. The success of the industrial park has brought increased value to that land which in turn has generated more tax revenue than a split tax ever could have. For this reason I am not in favor of a split-tax.

3.     What are the most pressing priorities for the first town council? 

ANSWER: The most pressing priority for the first town council is the selection of a qualified Town Manager. If the last few months of dysfunctional government has taught us anything, it’s that we need professional people running the day-to-day operations of our local government. Finding a Town Manager who fits that bill is critical to the success of the new charter and our Town.  I also believe the council must ensure a smooth transition from our previous form of government to the current one. Many departments who were previously overseen by various elected boards are now going to report to the Council and the Town Manager so that will be a challenge to make that work. Of course I look forward to meeting these challenges as a council member.

4.     What are your top three criteria to look for in a town manager search? 

ANSWER: I would expect a strong candidate to have 6+ years of experience as a town manager. I would want a town manager that has proven ability to execute the core responsibilities of this role, which means they are organized and confident in their ability to make decisions. They would need to show a strong ability to work with department heads, various boards, and unions to accomplish the town goals. Lastly and perhaps most importantly, the Town Manager must be able to listen to the concerns of the townspeople and to be flexible in meeting the public’s desires and concerns.

5.     What do you expect the weekly time commitment is going to be for a council member? 

ANSWER: I expect my time commitment as a council member to vary based on the topic for each meeting. I fully expect to average between 4-6 hours per week talking to residents, researching, preparing and attending meetings.

6.     People often make the suggestion that the Town should be run more like a business. What are some significant distinctions between a business and a municipality?

ANSWER: A town is a business. On a macro level, a town has income and expenses; it has employees that are governed by state and federal laws as well as a CBA for the various union members; towns have an infrastructure. Towns have to have short and long term plans. These are basic aspects of a business and they transcend all industries. Businesses invest in their infrastructure to make improvements and gain a competitive edge (or in the Town’s case- better efficiencies) and I believe a municipality can do the same. We can invest in our schools, police, fire, DPW, library, Recreation Department, and other core services to continue to build on our brand. That is what will continue to attract businesses and residents to East Longmeadow.

 7.     What is your vision for the Town of East Longmeadow in 10 years? 

ANSWER: I fully expect East Longmeadow to become one of the top ten places to live in the state. We will do that by continuing and building upon our commitment to our elderly, our children and our local business owners. We are a diverse community and one of the primary reasons for this is that we invest in our schools, we invest in our infrastructure and we take care of our elders. These commitments attract people who are seeking a better quality of life. By continuing our commitment in these three primary areas I have no doubt we will become one of the most desirable places to live in the state.  

8.     The FY 17 capital needs of the Town total over $30,000,000 with just over $1,000,000 in funding from the available budget. This is not inclusive of a new high school. How do you plan, as a councilor, to prioritize maintaining the Town's infrastructure over the next 20 years? 

ANSWER: The list of Capital projects must be prioritized by whether the project will enhance the value of our property and make living in our Town a more attractive experience. That means we need to invest in our schools by making them compatible with the realities of the 21^st century. At some point we will need to upgrade the Schools to better prepare our youth for the computer age and the changing work force they will need to compete in. We also need to continue to install sidewalks to promote safety and elevate the quality of life in our neighborhoods. I believe we can improve the quality of our ball fields and open spacing however; I would not support the purchase of private property that cannot be used for any public use other than open space.

9.     What are pros and cons of being on a town council with members who have no prior government experience, yet have to implement a new form of government? 

ANSWER: The pros of being a new town council member is you have no preconceived notions, no alliances, no baggage. I am coming to the table with energy and passion to help our town. However, I am not so naïve to think that government experience is not critical to our success. The downside is that there is a very strong possibility that most of the new council members will have no experience, which means we will all be on the same learning curve. That is why it is critical that we work as a team to accomplish a common goal.

10.  As a member the legislative body of the town, how will you ensure that your voice represents the will of the voters? 

ANSWER: As a member of the Town Council, it will be important to maintain a connection with the residents to understand their thoughts and ideas on our community. I will make myself available to residents that want to voice their opinions. I think it would be helpful to attend a luncheon or event at the senior center each month and make myself available via social media.