Letter: Alcombright Inclusive, Transparent
To the Editor:
I support Dick Alcombright for re-election to the office of mayor of the city of North Adams because I believe he is the candidate better suited to advance the city's economic, educational, civic and social priorities during the next mayoral term.
I was born and raised in North Adams and left the area after graduating from college. Since moving back to the city 10 years ago, I have worked with Mayor Alcombright in various professional and volunteer capacities through my involvement with Mass MoCA, MCLA, the North Adams Chamber of Commerce and the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition, among other organizations. I know him to be collaborative, ethical, inclusive and transparent in approaching his work, and always motivated by a desire to act in the best interests of the city and its residents.
Mayor Alcombright has shown a willingness to advocate for policies and programs that he believes are necessary to provide short and long-term stability for the city. I have been impressed by his ability to accept opposition with humility (as in the case of the unsuccessful Proposition 2 1/2 override proposal) and affirmation with grace (as with the community's endorsement of the plan to build the Colegrove Park Elementary School). Whatever the result of particular proposal, his approach in reaching consensus has been the same — present the facts, give equal credence to the viewpoints of opponents and supporters, and act in accordance with the outcome of a fair and open process.
Finally, I deeply appreciate Mayor Alcombright's positive spirit and his engagement with the community. His presence at events and his enthusiasm in supporting the city's schools, community organizations and businesses reflect a leadership style and temperament that will continue to serve our community well over the next two years.
For these reasons, I encourage my fellow citizens of North Adams — and my neighbors and friends especially — to cast a vote in favor of Mayor Dick Alcombright on Nov. 3.
Thomas W. Bernard
North Adams
Tags: election 2015, letters to the editor, NorthAdamsElection,