Selectman Angelo Firenze will run again for a second full term in 2009, The Belmont Citizen Herald is reporting. Firenze ran unopposed in 2006, but was reportedly undecided about his plans for another term. He tells the BCH that maintaining critical town services and teachers in the classroom are priorities, as is growing the town’s commercial tax base.
In an e-mail exchange in September, Firenze said that he was weighing his options, but would likely wait until after the New Year to make any decisions. In the interim, however, a number of rumored opponents have decided not to run, clearing the field for Firenze. That said, he said he expects to face an opponent on April’s ballot and is looking forward to the opportunity to run against someone. “I think it’s healthy for the town,” he is quoted saying.
I agree that it is healthy to have a contender and provide choice. From what I can tell, Angelo has come around from his earlier campaign in which he felt an override wasn’t necessary to seeing what gets lost when you don’t have the money to pay for it.
My concern is his stance that “you need to feel the pain before real change comes.” I think we are all feeling the pain from our current economic climate and change has come in reduced spending on fuel, groceries, and more. Many of us have had to cut back and realize that while it isn’t rosy, most of us can manage. I’ve also seen the community come together and help those that struggle and it’s beautiful.
But when it comes to cutting back on police, fire, teachers, and health resources, the pain becomes much more real to those of us who rely on these services for our health, safety, well-being, and future prospects.
What is his stance on the debt exclusion for the Wellington that has had so many problems that the state put us on the short list for funding? I am also curious to learn how he voted on Question 1 and how he feels about the current infrastructure problems and the soaring debt in Massachusetts. What is his view on raising the gas tax? It wouldn’t be so painful now that the gas rates have gone down. But these are other issues.
Being a Selectman in Belmont takes a lot of work and even more heart. You have to believe in the people and look at how your decisions impact the entire population. Anyone who runs should be commended and so should Angelo for trying to do what he believes is best for the community. We can’t divide and conquer – instead we need to join together and rise up to the challenges that lie ahead. Together, we can manage whatever comes along with thoughtful decisions and careful planning.
Anne Mahon