[Editor’s note: This spring, Southborough voters will be able to choose among three candidates for two seats on the Select Board. To help you make that decision, each candidate is invited to submit one letter to readers promoting their campaign.
As in past years, you may use comments to endorse the candidate. No mudslinging allowed here.]
To the Editor:
My name is Sam Stivers. I’m running for re-election to the Select Board. I appreciate this opportunity to describe why a vote for me is a vote for a better Southborough.
I’ve lived in Southborough for over 25 years. I’ve spent most of this time working as a Town government volunteer. In addition to serving on the Select Board, I’ve also been a member of a number of other Town committees, including the Advisory Committee, the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Master Plan Committee. I attend or view a number of Town committee meetings every week, and through this I stay informed about a wide range of Town activities. My “day job” background during my career includes experience as a teacher, as a business strategy consultant and as a manager in health care companies.
Why Am I Running For Re-Election to the Select Board?
- I care a lot about Southborough’s future.
- Town government continues to face a number of challenges—both financial and programmatic. My experience from six years on the Select Board, my business experience, my management skills, and my detailed understanding of Town government prepares me to deal effectively with these challenges.
What issues will I focus on as a Select Board member?
1. Financial Oversight. I believe in vigilant oversight of Southborough’s $70+MM annual budget, especially with the current and future financial pressures on the Town and taxpayers.
There is appropriate concern about the financial impact of the proposed Neary building project. However, a primary cause of the pressure for increasing residential property taxes is our ongoing shift toward more reliance on residential, versus commercial, real estate tax revenue. This is creating, and unless we proactively deal with this, this will continue to create, significant increasing pressure on residential property taxpayers—either with or without the Neary project. The most effective, long-term solution to this issue is to increase commercial development along Route 9. Our current Select Board is working on several initiatives to address this, and I can continue to be an effective contributor to this process.
2. Housing Opportunities. I support creation of more housing options for residents—particularly more affordable housing for our young families and our seniors.
With my Zoning Board experience, I have a detailed understanding of our zoning bylaws. I can work with other Town boards (such as the Planning Board and the Affordable Housing Trust) to support creation of more housing options for our residents.
3. Longer-Term Planning. I recognize the value of longer-term planning for the Town’s future infrastructure and services needs.
Our Master Plan process confirmed that our residents support a wide variety of projects such as: (i) improved recreation facilities; (ii) an expanded Senior Center; (iii) an enhanced network of trails and sidewalks, including more connections between different parts of our Town; and (iv) an expanded Library. We will need to plan and manage carefully to balance the many desirable projects against our limited financial and other resources. My business experience with planning and financial management prepares me to be an effective participant in this balancing process.
Why vote for me?
My track record as a Select Board member over the past six years confirms that I can find solutions for difficult issues, and that I can work with my Select Board colleagues and others to deliver results.
I ask for your vote on Tuesday, May 13th.
For more information, please feel free to contact me by phone at (508) 303-3396 or by email at sam@samstivers.com.
Thank you,
Sam Stivers
7 Presidential Drive
