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.