Duval Seeks Re-election in Adams to Finish Projects
ADAMS, Mass. — John Duval wants to finish what he started.
"There are still a lot of projects that I would like to see to completion while keeping the financial situation in town under control," the three-term selectman said. "There is still a lot to be done."
Duval has been on the board for nine years. Before that, he spent 17 years on the then Adams-Cheshire Regional School Committee. He also has volunteered with local youth sports organizations and is an employee at General Dynamic.
He is one of three candidates vying for two three-year seats in the Board of Selectmen in the Monday, May 3, election; the other two are a former board member Donald Sommer and newcomer Howard Rosenberg.
Duval said he wants to see the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail extension projected completed as well as the revamping of Route 8. He said these are projects he has been working on for some time now.
Also high on his list is the redevelopment of the Memorial Building. Duval hopes that the long-closed former middle school in the downtown area can become an asset to the community and local sports leagues.
"The school is a main one for me," Duval said. "I want to be able to use the gym and have town meeting here. It has been a lot of years, I have always fought for it, and it is something that I want to see to completion."
Duval has been involved with the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission and the Metropolitan Planning Organization and not only has a "seat at the table," but has a historical knowledge of many ongoing projects in town.
But he is worried about the shallow tax base and its relation to the tax rate and thinks the town needs to continue to attract new business and new families.
"We need the next generation to want to purchase homes here, live here, and raise their families here," Duval said. "I have two sons that bought houses in Adams ... that is all-new tax base that will help us in the overall scheme of things."
He also wants to combat the negativity in Adams and feels there are many things to be optimistic about. And he said the current composition of the Board of Selectmen has the energy and vision to move Adams forward.
"I have seen it all in regard to how government works," he said. "I believe our board is a positive, forward-thinking group, and I think this is a plus for the community."
Duval sees opportunities for Adams in the post-pandemic world and said his experience is important in a critical time for the town.
"I care. I am a lifelong resident of Adams, and I have given 26 years of my life to being a public official," he said. "I have been involved. My kids are here, my family is here, and I am not going anywhere."
Tags: election 2021, town elections,
