To the editor:
I genuinely think that those who sign up for government work should be lauded, especially at the local level, where I can imagine it can be a thankless task at times. And I’d like to proffer my support for two of the candidates for the May 11 election for selectboard.
Kate Burke and Eric Gabriel both have my support, for different reasons. Both of them grew up here and have committed to stay here, despite the financial challenges faced by our local youth, and both have created careers here. But beyond that, they bring very different skills and energy to our town.
In her three years on the board, Kate Burke’s decisions have always reflected her concern for others facing the challenges of raising a family, forging a career, and succeeding here. As a mother of young children, her insights into how town policies can help and hurt young families are important, but her concern is for all town residents, not just young families. And she seems to have a good working relationship with and the respect of all of the other selectboard members.
Eric Gabriel grew up and still lives in Housatonic. There are no selectboard members who live in Housatonic and that needs to change — one of the good reasons to vote for him. Also, I’ve heard he has a strong ability to work with people on both sides of an issue; this will really be of value on the board. In addition, as an electrician he knows what it takes, and what the obstacles are, to run a successful business in town.
I urge you to vote for Kate Burke and Eric Gabriel in the Great Barrington town election on May 11.
Timothy Eustis
Great Barrington
