Westmorelander

On the eve of elections I have posted the final interview that I had on file. It should be noted that I did attempt to contact the other people listed on the ballot, but life is busy! I truly enjoyed interviewing the candidates – it made me more aware of the eclectic, educated, and talented people we have in our small town. I would be remiss if I did not mention the negative press time these elections have brought to us. Am I, personally, ashamed of what has been happening on all levels? Of course. Does it make me dislike my town? Never. This is a wonderful community – with lots of history and resilience. I have faith that we, as proud Westmorelanders will rise above this and remember that our neighbors are those people whom have helped us in so many ways over the years.

I chose to run Tom’s interview last, quite honestly because it gave me a good chuckle. For those of you who know Tom, he is an intelligent man, fantastic husband to the talented Susanne Bates (who works at the school), and proud father. His answer to why he originally ran for this position brought a nostalgic smile to my face. Junior Starkey was a force to be reckoned with when he helped to run this town; Tom was a smart man to say “Yes” to his request.

The best of luck to ALL of the candidates tomorrow. May those who are elected run our town with the pride and dignity as those before you have.

-Gina Gitchell

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Position: Trust Funds Trustee

Candidate: Thomas Bates

Job/Life experience: “I own my certified public accounting firm in Keene.  Been a CPA in Keene for 31 years.  Volunteer on Monadnock United Way as team leader.  Contribute accounting & tax services to numerous not-for-profit organizations in Monadnock Region.”
 
How long have you lived in Westmoreland? 23 years.
 
Why are you running for this position? “I’m running as trustee of town trust funds again because Junior Starkey appointed me to a vacancy years ago.  When I told Junior I’d think about his offer, he said, ‘You don’t have any choice, you will fill the vacancy.’ I’m doing this as a courtesy to Junior, but also because I enjoy the role as trustee.”
 
What can you offer to this position? “My experience as a CPA is a perfect match for the role and responsibility of a trustee.  Just as CPA’s must uphold the public trust, so too, a trustee has to have the public’s best interest in mind.”
 
One positive thing about Westmoreland: “The most positive thing about Westmoreland is the people.  People are friendly and genuine.  They don’t try to impress.  They are hardworking and very family-oriented.  Also, the school.  We should all consider our town very fortunate to have the dedicated staff that educates our young people day in and day out without a lot of hoopla.”