Letter: Cliff, Downs Will Keep Wayland 'On the Right Path'

Editor's Note: For a full collection of support letters for these candidates, click on their hyperlinked names at the bottom of this letter under "Related Topics."

I am delighted to support two outstanding candidates for town office: Gordon Cliff (Board of Selectmen) and Jeanne Downs (School Committee).  In addition to being uniquely qualified, they share a deep commitment to maintaining and strengthening our excellent school system and town services in a fiscally responsible manner.  They understand how vital it is to keep Wayland strong -- recent accomplishments such as our new high school, new Wayland Community Pool and Town Center are examples of great things being achieved when people work together in a constructive and positive way.  They also understand that keeping our town desirable requires ongoing commitment and will work hard leading the community to do just that.

This election is pivotal. I believe town funds have been responsibly managed and that our spending is prudently aligned with our peer communities. While everyone would like lower tax bills, let’s not be tempted by shortsighted thinking. It concerns me greatly that pressure from a vocal group in town will jeopardize what’s special about Wayland:  our standing as a top school district; our quality library, public safety and other services; our open space and semi-rural character; our pragmatic long-term financial planning; our vibrant and caring community. 

Now is the time to elect more town leaders who will continue on the path where rational and informed decision-making, sound priorities and smart investments are valued.  More than ever, Wayland must continue maximizing limited resources to support what has been so carefully built through the decades.

Your family’s future depends on electing the right town leadership to chart Wayland’s direction and tone.  To keep Wayland strong, please vote for Gordon Cliff and Jeanne Downs on Tuesday, April 2.

Cynthia Lavenson
Mitchell Street

Check out coverage of Wayland's 2013 Town Election, including all the Letters to the Editor, on our topic page, Wayland Town Election 2013.