Opinion: Here's Why I Support Berman and Dockser For Select Board

A Letter to the Editor from Russ Graham:

As our annual town election once again faces us. We are blessed with a larger than usual number of candidates vying for a seat on the Reading select board.

We must choose from five candidates, all of whom have their individual skills and experiences that qualify them for office.

As a long time observer and participant in our town goverment, I am supporting Barry Berman and Mark Dockser for the two open seats on the board.

Barry has direct and valuable experience on the board. His passionate and prudent advice in supporting one question for one town proved to be a critical decision leading to a successful vote on the override.

His support of senior tax relief for long time residents was of great value helping to keep seniors in their homes.

He has been instrumental in advocating for economic development that is consistent with the character and essence of what Reading is.

He has demonstrated an ability to work with and compromise with others in town government despite sometimes not agreeing with them.

In the last two elections incumbents have been voted out, and at least one of the two to be elected will be a new member. My personal belief is that the board, while being ably served by new faces with new ideas, needs experienced members to work with those chosen to move the town forward.

I believe Barry Berman is the one who is able to do just that.

My choice for the new member is Mark Dockser, who has the background and skills to work with the members of the board to lead us in these sometimes difficult times.

He is a long time town meeting member and finance committee member who has always shown the judgment, character and integrity needed to make critical decisions on behalf of the town. He does so with courtesy and respect without giving up the policies and ideas he believes to be in the best interest of the town.

I respectfully ask for your support of Barry and Mark on election day Tuesday April 2nd.

Russ Graham