~ Submitted by Lee Vorderer
March 12 is election day here in Bedford, and I write to encourage you to consider seriously candidate Shawn Hanegan for Select Board. As you know, the Select Board is responsible for making decisions, along with the Town Manager and many other committees and boards, taking action to make those decisions come to fruition. Part of the reason I am so much in favor of Shawn’s candidacy is this complex leadership structure.
Shawn is a great learner. He examines problems for himself; he takes seriously comments that others give to him about the situation; he works to balance the interests of the various parties involved; when it’s time to vote, he votes his conscience when his process is complete. His years of experience with Town Planning Board have given Shawn both the perspective and connections that will enable him to take what he learns and use it effectively as a Select Board member.
Shawn also listens. I’d like to share an example here. One of my interests is the need of people with disabilities for affordable and accessible housing. I ’ve spoken at Planning meetings several times about the needs of people with disabilities for affordable and accessible housing. Shawn sits currently on Bedford’s Planning Board. His interest was piqued about what accessibility might mean and how principles of universal design might be used to influence future residential development in town. Shawn shared what he learned with other members of the Planning Board and has become an advocate in forums around issues of accessibility. He has asked clarifying questions, sought out references, and represents the access point of view in residential projects that come before the Planning Board.
Bedford has certainly changed over the 30 plus years that I’ve lived here, and change will continue in some form. I am confident that Shawn Hanegan will bring his energy and experience responding to changes to the Bedford Select Board, and I urge you to vote for him on March 12.
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