Lara Stone has announced on her website that she will be running for Select Board in the April election. I am told that she will run against Diane Gilbert but I have not confirmed that with the Town Clerk.
Ms. Stone has this to say about her reasons for running,
I am running because I believe I have a moral obligation to myself, my family and my neighbors to restore a sense of community in Dartmouth and to find solutions that make that possible. Of course, finding the solutions is only the beginning. If I win your confidence at the election in April, I’ll have three years to work with others on implementing these solutions. I know I can help ...
...change the tone of things in Dartmouth, too. I’ve spent my whole life and my professional career bringing people together, building community and inspiring others to serve a common vision. I am a thoughtful, even-keeled leader who draws people in with good sense,inspiration, and competence.As it stands now, Bob Carney is opposed by Frank Gracie and Diane Gilbert is opposed by Lara Stone. Do you think other candidates will be taking out nomination papers?
Posts
171 comments:
ABG!!! Anybody but Gilbert!!
I'll second that... ABG!
Wow this woman certainly looks qualified on paper, I can't wait to meet her!
Lara Stone has a great resume, but I feel I must support Diane Gilbert. Diane uncovered the sweetheart contracts that the previous board put into place which puts our town at risk for lawsuits. All on the taxpayer's dime. If it weren't for Diane,we would still be in the dark about this mess! I would like to see Diane on the board for the next three years as we move forward. After looking at Ms. Stone's resume, I think she should run for school committee. She would be great on that board and she would have my vote for sure!
Lara Stone is the real deal. She's bright, a quick study, a hard worker, dedicated to her family and her church and her community, has an enviable resume filled with success and accomplishments, and is nobody's stooge. She's her own person and is not afraid to speak her mind. You can bet she will not be part of any of Dartmouth's political gangs.
What will set her apart more than anything is that she's a good and decent person capable of bringing people together to do things that need to be done. And she doesn't care who gets credit! Won't that be a nice change of pace on the Select Board.
This is perhaps the greatest breath of fresh air in a long time in Dartmouth.
I supoport Gilbert, have known Ms. Stone in different avenues. Gilbert is right for this job due to her attention to detail and her ability to attend Finance Committee meetings.
To L Stone is real deal: Don't be naive her ego is as big as the sun, wear shades. She also is not welcoming to Joe or Josephine the average citizens. She is the elite and dismissive. Watch out townsfolk.
Wow, what news. Gilbert gets my vote. Thank goodness change is coming, with contracts and NO automatic renewal clauses.
If you want a forward thinking decision maker, a leader, someone that can get people to work together towards solutions then Lara Stone is your choice. Her work experience speaks for itself Kim. This is what she has done in her professional career and done well.
Diane's vindictive crusade against Michael Gagne really doesn't make her qualified to lead our town. In fact I think it speaks volumes as to why it's time for her to go!
Meg, That's just it. Diane is working for the good of Dartmouth. Our town was put at risk with contract clauses that are in court as we speak. This was done in sessions so that the public would not know what was going on. We can not move forward with a leader that does not work for the best interest of Dartmouth. Mr. Gagne was well aware of the red flags in atty. Bartulus's letter. He ignored them. Instead he gave himself one of the contracts and all his buddies. This is not the leader I want. Thank you Diane for doing the tough but right thing for Dartmouth. Mr. Gagne has been EA for 20+ years and I think he is very knowledgeable about Dartmouth, but I think he forgot,along the way, that he works for the residents 30,000plus of us, NOT a few employees at town hall.
Lara Stone is probably a very nice person,but my vote remains with Diane. From what I have read, Lara is a great advocate for the schools. We need that in town. I'm glad she's here,but again, Diane has my vote!
What does Lara Stone think about the contract clauses of 2006?
What are her ideas about solving the town's fiscal problems?
Does she advocate for more overrides?
All question I want answered before I make my decision in April.
Meg: "Diane's vindictive crusade against Michael Gagne"?
You forgot Bill's "vindictive crusade" and Joe's "vindictive crusade."
And while I dislike using the term, it's been my experience that you either love or hate Diane. Several times I have heard that she has many questions, but offers no solutions. I'd rather have someone questioning a decision or procedure than to be placed in a position like we are now in with the sweetheart clause (b) and automatic contract renewal language that some in our government apparently found no problem with.
Have you ever considered that change and positive, healthy results initially come from researching and asking questions?
And, sorry, Kim, Michael Gagne has done much well in and for Dartmouth, but he has not fulfilled his most important job obligation to you and I: the plan called for in the Charter. But feel free to argue that with me.
I don't remember Diane's looking for credit for anything.
As for working with others, the only people on that Board that I see "working" are Diane, Bill, and Joe. Bob Carney and Nathalie Dias, like Michael Gagne, may have done much in and for the community on the boards and committees they served on, but all I've seen lately, is a lot of sniping, belittling, negating any majority decisions, and dividing our town, and all in our "best interest." And that, of course, is nothing that could be called vindictive by any stretch of the imagination.
Diane has my vote.
And, thank you, Michael, Nathalie, and Bob for your work and contributions to our town.
Lara Stone was on the front page of the S.T. crying because the ill-conceived 2007 $8 million override failed. She was a strong supporter of it and in my opinion anyone who supported that override isn't capable of good judgement. Her resume may sound good on paper but it didn't qualify her to have a grasp of the budget or an understanding of how overrides effect the budget. We don't need another town employee cheerleader who wants to keep raising taxes.
My vote goes to Diane. She has proven time and time again her intelligence and independence. She is not afraid to question and more importantly, she asks the right questions. There are those who are uncomfortable with people who make waves but I say our country would not be what it is today if people didn't make waves. Where does progress come from when we just want everyone to play nice and get along?
There are better ways to solve problems then the way that Diane (and if you want to lump Bill and Joe in there so be it) go about it but mainly influenced by Diane's tantrums are what bring us to such polarization in this town.
Lara possess problem-solving skills that bring people together and that is what makes a good leader. This is what she was educated to do and then spent the last 20 or so years of her career refining her skills professionally.
Once you hear Lara speak you will be hooked, as it will be a breath of fresh air to hear a positive voice for a change, and when elected to seee positive solutions proposed and then implemented.
I have not seen any tantrums as you put it. What I have seen is intelligent debate from Diane. Horan had tantrums.
The question remains. What is Lara Stone's platform other than "can't everybody just get along"?
I looked up S.T. archives dated 8/1/2007. Caption to the right of Stone's picture reads "Lara Stone is OVERCOME WITH EMOTION as news of the override vote is announced". I agree with previous poster. We don't need someone who supported that override on the SB.
My other question is what do you consider positive change? Your comments imply that the changes going on now are not positive.
Does Stone agree with the nonrenewal of Gagne's contract? Does she agree with the automatic renewal clauses and the other language written into these contracts? If she does not, is she willing to publicly speak out against them? The SB is divided on all issues. That is the reality. The question becomes which side of the fence is she on because like it or not, a choice will have to be made unless she just wants to avoid all relevant questions and stick with the fluff.
I agree,I need to hear Lara Stone's platform before any decisions are made. All those who serve our town are dedicated, hard working people. You may not agree with all of them, but they ALL love Dartmouth and have Dartmouth Pride! All I remember about Ms. Stone is how she was a cheer leader for an $8 million override. NOT very responsible in my book.
Diane has not had tantrums. If anything, she has borne the brunt of a few of her fellow past and present Board members' rude, discourteous, spiteful, and unprofessional behavior. May I mention Kathleen Horan McLean, Bob Carney, and Nathalie Dias, the latter who are waging an all-out war, beginning with the
ill-conceived and vindictive recall attempt that failed, to resorting to verbal abuse and sarcasm every opportunity they can get. Neither, especially Mrs. Dias, waste no time letting everyone know how "wrong" Diane, Bill, and Joe's vote to not renew Michael Gagne's contract was.
Diane has the guts to stand up for her convictions, like it or not. And, unfortunately, some who don't like it will resort to just those "tantrums" you allude to, behavior reminiscent of a two-year-old or a petulant teenager who didn't get his/her way, and is intent to make parents suffer as a result. Anything to discredit her.
There is little respect for those who do so.
I'm not getting the sense that the town is "polarized" because of Diane. Actually, that sounds preposterous a statement to make.
If you think the town is polarized because of one individual, you've lost your perspective. As I see it, issues, not individuals, are dividing the Town into two camps. Granted, the issues may at times involve individuals, as Mr. Gagne, but it is still the issue that is the crux of any disagreements.
Obviously, some people like to kill the messenger.
Besides, most of us have better things to do than to obsess about a particular person.
Diane shows great restraint in having to deal with Mr. Carney and Mrs. Dias on a weekly basis,and even greater restraint when she had to deal with Ms. Horan McLean.
Lara Stone's web site does not give one single clue about where she actually stands on ISSUES. How about answering some questions that will define you as a candidate Lara? Do you think Gagne's contract should be re-newed? Do you think the schools can survive on MNSS? If not, where do you plan to get the money? Do you have any thoughts on privitization or outsourcing of services, specifically, the library? If you would be kind enough to answer these questions for me, I have many more.
Lara Stone after the $8,000,000 override failed Take a look
Thanks anon. 1:51. Can you post that on Curt's blog? I think everyone should be aware of her position regarding overrides.
FYI, Don't accidentally call Lara "Laura"
Meg, Lara fan. Lara does not bring everyone together, actually nobody really brings everyone together; uniter fantasy. There is fresh optimism and then there is Lara Stone similar to Sarah Palin, out of the blue and irritating. Hey, she has a sociology degree right? So she will try to figure us all out and manipulate it to her Martha Stuart liking. Sticking with Gilbert.
2:07, touchy, are we?
My neighbor said this morning: Diane is a work horse, Lara is a show horse. Sometimes the older wiser people hit the nail on the head.
Diane Gilbert has brought moderate analysis to town affairs. She is analytical and knows right from wrong, especially in finacial areas.
Looking forward to hearing more from Lara Stone.
Yes, When will Lara Stone who thinks we can change everything with a tiara and cape speak?
Lara needs to inform us of her 2009 plans, then we will analyze. Let's cut her some slack.
Lara Stone letter on override
DIANE GILBERT IS WHAT DARTMOUTH STILL NEEDS !!
SHE CARES FOR DARTMOUTH'S FUTURE.
SHE IS THE WATCH DOG FOR US .
GO CONTINUE TO CLEAN UP THIS TOWN.
THANKS DIANE.
Anyone know Diane's latest plans then we can compare.
I think Diane is necessary and lara should have chosen to run against Carney. Then we would have two very different women on the board. Nat is her own lighthouse.
My understanding is that Lara Stone is a uniter only if you happen to agree with her. Very arrogant attitude and it's my way or you are just ignorant and need educating. I am having flashbacks to the 2007 override. Opponents were called cheap and stupid. Not the kind of person who can work with others when there is disagreement.
Time to start answering the real questions Lara. Where do you stand on issues???
Wow! 26 comments already. Gilbert loyalists are beside themselves, and it's just the first day.
It's interesting that it has taken less than 24 hours to start slinging mud at Lara Stone. And, those same people trying to tarnish Stone's image have the audacity to defend Gilbert's conduct.
Unbelieveable!
I will never give a vote to Diane Gilbert for any office. She is the single most divisive force in Dartmouth. She has to go.
Lara Stone's letter regarding the override gives a clear indication that she had no understanding of the effects of an override. This letter was nothing more that a manipulative attempt to convince voters that the sky would fall and Dartmouth would collapse if the override failed. Her ties to Olimpio do not inspire trust or faith either.
Dear wow,
Dartmouth cannot afford to lose Diane Gilbert--- she has un covered so much corruption in Dart. We are so happy that she is running for S B.
What's "Gilbert's conduct"? Explain, please.
Gilbert loyalists aren't beside themselves, is this Kindergarten banter? You are the people that call Diane names incessantly. Diane Gilbert is ready to lead from day one like OBAMA, yes we can. Lara has been MIA from committee meetings, except maybe Town Meeting. She needs to be present on roll cal for at least 6 months before running. gracie at least goes to SB and Library mtgs. She is probably fed her info from Shannon Jenkins. Sister hug. I was hoping Doug Roscoe would run, at least he understands regular people ina professorial way. Lara cares about sailing and her village address.
MILLER< IS HE OUT
There are those who live in the village who don't make a big deal about it, or their hobbies. It is just Lara and her fancy pants clan that personify--ME ME ME and I.
There are those who live in the village who don't make a big deal about it, or their hobbies. It is just Lara and her fancy pants clan that personify--ME ME ME and I.
I wish more retired women would run for office, especially ones that support various town aspects.
MIller, are you kidding, hardy har har
I read Lara S.'s override letter and it tells me one thing. She was willing to sign her name to something that contained nothing but scare tactics and misinformation. Receivership in 2010 if the override failed? She doesn't exactly inspire confidence.
OH HOGWASH LARA NEEDS TO EXPLAIN HER INTENTIONS< LET HER PROOVE SHE'S THE ONE AND WORTHY> FIRST IMPRESSION IS SHES NOT SO DEAR AS YOU MAKE HER OUT TO BE>WE'LL SEE HOW SHE TREATS THOSE THAT THINK DIFFERENTLY FROM HER
anon. 3:12 Sounds like you've taken more than a few swigs yourself.
Has the Queen of England cometh to olde Dartmouth, just kidding, lighten up.
So to all Diane loyalists, when Lara supported the override in 2007 what exactly was Diane's plan?
Hey anonymous 3:15, last time I read the headlines we were headed to receivership. I think now they are predicting 2009 and not 2010 but Mrs. Stone was close!
just gettin started anon 3:16.
...hiccup!@
I will support Diane Gilbert in April. Diane is smart, independent, and she's willing to go out on a limb in order to do the right thing for Dartmouth. The right thing= bucking the last group of SB members who signed contracts that were not in best interest of Dartmouth. If not for Diane, we would still be in the dark. Diane works for 33,000 people, not 8.
I have nothing against Ms. Stone. I'm glad she is willing to serve, but I would rather be voting for her on school com. She works hard for the schools and I respect her for that. Diane Gilbert will get my vote in April!
Kim you keep repeating yourself. Still looking for Diane loyalists to tell me what her plan was in 2007 when Lara supported the override what did Diane want us to do? Ooops maybe I shouldn't have used that word "plan".
Although we are in serious trouble, receivership does not happen that easily. Mrs. Stone's prediction(?) is not realistic. The budget is balanced as of 2009 and there is a deficit of 800+k for 2010 although both may change due to state aid cuts. The state is not going to step in over that amount of a deficit. You need to do some research instead of listening to scare tactics.
People really do show their true colors on this blog site. Before Lara Stone even opens her mouth to let us know what her positions are about the issues in our town, you folks are ripping her to shreds about her address, her hobbies, and even her good deeds - the tiara classic roadrace. It's really pathetic. I will vote for Ms. Stone because I believe she has the kind of personality and way of thinking that will perhaps bring about more compromise and more dialog on the select board. Yes, she voted for the override. So did 48% of all voters, remember? Trust me, we are not all idiots, as much as you would try to paint us that way. Life is not black and white, my friends, and our town's financial problems cannot be solved by cuts alone, regardless of Bill's graphs and charts. We would not be in the difficult position we are in now if Joe, Diane and Bill had sought compromise with Natalie and Mr. Carney regarding Gagne's removal. Far as I can tell, there was no discussion. They simply ran ahead with their majority clout, and now we are stuck in a rut with a missing wagon wheel. Not a good position to be in. A quagmire, I believe it's called.
Diane wanted to look at salaries and the cost of compensation. What do you think she's been trying to hammer home regarding these contracts. Other than the obvious automatic renewal clauses, they also contain language that gives these employees benefits that are not in the town's best interests. An example is having to fully fund the position or give them another position with the same pay before anything else is funded whether or not these employees are needed. She has questioned everything from bussing contracts to the DPW. The SB has already hired someone to negotiate contracts so we don't have a town employee negotiating employee contracts anymore. Something Diane advocated for. Diane was a strong voice against an override that would have done more damage to our deficit.
She has spent most of the last few years fighting against a Select Board that had only the employees interests in mind. There is no doubt in my mind that she will continue to be an advocate for Dartmouth citizens.
As stated several times on this blog and others, the Select Board is not responsible for the plan. I am not asking Lara Stone for a plan. I am asking what she stands for. What is her position on the issues? You always know where Diane stands and her positions are very clear.
Ok there is a 800,000 "defecit" in 2010 that's not big enough for receivership, we should be so proud. Ok anonymous 4:26 but what say you about 2011 will that defecit be big enough then to qualify us for the big R. Wake up as these aren't scare tactics as we are in serious financial trouble!
Maybe if Lara Stone's website included information about relevant issues and her position regarding those issues, you wouldn't be reading these kinds of comments. All I got from it was "I play well with others" and a list of "thought to be" qualifications. Not much in the way of real information.
Don't get me wrong. I think we are in serious trouble. However, the override didn't pass and we will not go into receivership in 2009, 2010, 2011 or for quite some time after that even if we do nothing. It was purely a scare tactic that the voters didn't fall for. I do understand the financial crisis we are in. I, along with many others, are for changing the way things are done in Dartmouth but I don't appreciate being treated like a child and told the sky is going to fall when it is not.
Ok so once Michael Gagne is gone and the renewal clauses are removed from all the contracts will we then be financially stable or will we still need an override?
Lisa, maybe you're right. I will look at Diane Gilbert's site and see where she stands on positions beyond the contract issue and get back to you.
Oh wait Daine does not have a web site. I guess I'll have to wait to HEAR from her before I make ignorant comments about where she stands.
Meg I admire your pluck! But you'll learn soon enough the people on this blog know all the answers, have all the solutions and any talk that does not include claims of incompetance or crys for additional cuts to everything and anything will soon be beaten down. Welcome to the hitching post.
To anon 4:40, Excuse me, but I think I can tell you one issue that Lara Stone was behind 100%. An $8 million override!
It would be nice if she outlined her vision for Dartmouth including overrides, on her website. So far, all I see is "let's all give big hugs, kisses, hold hands". Oh come on! This isn't personal, what are your ideas about Dartmouth's fiscal woes??
I wonder if Lara Stone will boycott the CFRG candidates night.
Would we all be happy if Diane hadn't let the public, read, taxpayers, know about the sweetheart protective clause and renewal language?
What IS Lara's position on that?
Sounds like a personable individual, with an impressive list of achievements and community/committee work, but, for all the folksy website and commentary, there was nothing said about her positions on the issues.
She certainly sounds like she could be the "dedicated" official "diligently" working "in the best interest of the town," but what IS that "best interest"? A one-sided agenda for the schools and an override coming from our pockets is what I'm hearing. That's scary when there is such intense focus to the detriment of other issues that affect the big picture: ALL of us in Town.
Anonymous 5:16 Over-simplifying the issue is not helpful. There is much more to be done then what you are stating.
Anonymous 5:20 No Diane doesn't have a website. However anyone paying attention for the last three years would know where Diane stands. Where has Lara Stone been and what has she been advocating for in the way of fiscal health?
Anonymous 5:47: priceless!
anonymous 5:20 The problem is we are not hearing anything from Lara Stone. Her website is not very helpful. You would think she would have outlined her views on various town issues especially since there is so much to debate.
Lisa I haven't oversimplified anything, I have clarified it for you. Diane Gilbert didn't need to throw our town into polarizing turmoil once again just because 8 people have these "sweetheart contracts" as it isn't going to save our town from it's inevitable financial downfall.
Let's see, Miss Stone has anounced her intention to run and not 24 hours later the elitists on this blog have managed to drag her through the hitching post mud. Well done people. As stated elsewhere, Miss Stone would have been wise to kiss the rings of the hitching post acolytes and then, having received their permission of course, announced her desire to serve our town. If at any point should Miss Stone transgress and she would then dutifully withdraw her papers and shrink back to where she came from.
Did'nt anyone read her the rules?
anonymous 6:18 You obviously have no clue if you believe that the 8 contracts are the only issue that is going to be addressed. What is going to save this town is having people on the Select Board like Diane who are willing to get rid of the status quo.
Obviously Lara Stone represents a threat to so many within this blog. 72 comments within less than 24 hours. Is that a record Bill?
Most of the pro Gilbert posts were probably made by PM.
Anonymous 6:28 that is my point, these 8 contracts that Ms. Gilbert has thrown our town into turmoil over won't solve our fiscal problems. Changing the "status quo" are just buzz words, just like "new direction" what exactly do they mean?
6:18: Just because 8 people have these 'sweetheart contracts'"? Were you at the meeting or were you watching when Nathalie Dias stated that it was the intention of the SB in 2006 to give all the remaining employees the same provisions once they became due? That would mean 16 more contracts of non-union Town employees that we would have to honor; 24 people we could never let go all totaled, with lifetime jobs and financial protection, for life, as well. The same people for years ad infinitum. Doesn't sound anywhere near a democracy to me. Is that how you would want the town to be run?
Have you ever read these contracts and totaled up the figures that we have to pay out now, let alone in the future?
Anonymous 7:44 will all of this change our financial position enough that we won't need a substantial override?
What is Lara's view of the contracts and the automatic renewal clauses? She has an MBA, so she is certainly qualified to give an opinion, but will she? Come on Lara, post something. We won't bite you.
Anonymous 6:28 and 7:40, if you've read Diane's piece in today's S-T, you will find she has quoted from a Boston attorney's letter to Michael Gagne. Attorney Bartulis is concerned about these contracts and states reasons why. Would you consider his letter to be divisive and the reason the town is in a "turmoil"?
The cost of these contracts is not the only issue. Diane has exposed what is public information regarding the protective provision, clause (b) and the automatic contract renewal language in these eight contracts that give these individuals job and financial protection for life. I guess she has no right doing that.
More power to the people that can get away with things seems to be the mentality of many posters here.
Anonymous 7:54: I really can't answer that, but I'm not clear on what an override has to do with the 8 contracts.
My perception of the "issue" with Diane is that people are upset because she exposed these contracts with the protective provisions. I didn't get the feeling the focus was that heavy on the financial issue as with the ethical issue, which in the long run would cost us a lot of money.
I can't answer your override question, but I am also not focusing on it. Perhaps someone with financial knowledge could help you.
Diane Gilbert is an extremely polarizing person.
Lara Stone could be on the same side of every issue as Diane Gilbert, and Gilbert would still polarize people, while Stone would be able to do her business without being divisive.
Gilbert is like fingernails on a chalkboard for a whole lot of people. She'll lose a TON of votes just because of that.
The key to being re-elected is keeping your negatives low. Gilbert's are about as high as they can get. People didn't know her when she first ran. But they sure know her now.
ABG!
Anybody But Gilbert!
Lara has capacity to divide and alienate. She is no Mother Theresa and can be insensitive and cruel. I'll take Diane's plain and honest style over hers any a.m. or p.m.
When is the last time Ms. Stone attended a 2-3 hour finance meeting or Council on Aging one. Library trustee meeting? School Committee? Genuine work meetings?
Let's discuss the issue of decreased local receipts and state aid?
Don't forget to post her We Believe or was it I believe letter or essay to ed. This shows her values to those curious.
Anonymous 8:50 you clearly don't know Lara as she wouldn’t have been as successful as she has been in her career if that were the case.
Meg, who are you her campaign manager? Success, Ok but this is a different job. People will responde to what she says and does. Don't worry, people may love her and think she is dynamo and dynamic. But it is OK if she is not some peoples cup of joe. Most are giving her the benefit of the doubt and are open to her ideas.
Tomorrow is a new day, apology to Diane and Lara for people getting carried away and reactionary with the news. Let us start a new day of peace and kindness tomorrow, a tabula rasa. Blank slate and fresh beginning.
Go to bed critics and look in the mirror. We are all humans, with some fault. Let the issue discussion start soon. The apples to apples and nuts and bolts. Sweet dreams.
Holy Moly, what has been going on here today?
Gilbert is all about Gilbert. When she first ran, she had all these secret meetings she was going to reveal. Never did. At the Select Board meetings, she always said she was working on plans for this, plans for that. Never appeared. She is quick to accuse other town officials of wrongdoing, collusion or other unethical behavior, but never has backed up her statements. Just ask the School Department about her e-mails regarding Reliable Bus.
But, what Gilbert is good at is feathering her preservation group with taxpayer's money. Just ask why WHALE decided to get out from underneath the Akin house.
Gilbert is talker and spaghetti thrower. Throw something out there and if it sticks, she'll look good. If it doesn't and falls away, well, she hopes the public will have short memories.
ABG!!
Lara Stone vs. Diane Gilbert is a no brainer for me! It's smart vs. dumb, class vs. no class, effective vs. just for show, and a nice person vs. a not-so-nice person.
Gilbert might be able to win. But if she loses, I'll be grinning ear-to-ear with delight.
:o)
Thank you Lara and do not listen to these responses. This blog is comprised of probably the same ten posters who are from the CFRG and post over and over and over again. You will prevail in the election and the Town will be better off for your voice.
Has Diane ever submitted a plan. She complains and whines, says we need to think, study and consider, but I have never seen her offer specific solutions. She may be well intentioned but she is not a leader and she adds to the divisiveness that this blog endorses.
The highly for Lara people are yelling and name calling all over the place. Different people read this, not CFRG only so if you want people to support Ms. Stone clean up your bitter chatter.
Let's discuss the Akin house, it is in Lara's neighborhood. Does she support it too?
Diane's vindictive crusade against the school Dept about the bus contracts is also reprehensible.Ive heard of letters from Diane condemming the business administrator as a racist because the bus contacts were bid out individually instead of a one contract package-incidentally saving the school dept thousands. And ive heard from others its not the first time she's gone out the deep end calling people names and hurling accusations without the facts. Not exactly whom I want in charge. Anon 1:21 is right ABG!!!!!!!!!
I think it's great someone new has stepped up to the plate. Let's stop harrassing each other about the candidates and let them speak for themselves. Lara Stone just announced her candidacy, I'm sure she'll come forward with her position and opinions. It's great to debate the issues and get different perspectives, but stop trashing the candidates. At least they're doing something about it.
Whats the deal about reliable bus contracts??? Racism???? oh its just Diane. Next thing you'll hear from diane is Mr Cordeiro either insulted the portuguese or used the n word in the last 10 years.no facts no research!! 1 and done!!!!! ABG ABG ABG ABG
It's so very comical to hear people trash Diane Gilbert. This thread reminds me of the McCain campaign. I've heard Diane called an elitist, she is self-consumed, classless and "dumb". Are you kidding? I do not know Lara Stone or her views, but I do know that Diane has worked hard for transparency. Transparency is a HUGE step in the right direction, no matter what! Get a grip, Please!. This thread lost it's way, but I hope it will ignite Lara to share more of her plans/views, so we can have a healthy debate.
Peace
Let there be kindness
I find it interesting that those of you who claim Diane has questions, but has provided no solutions should be so vehement in your cause against her. Read Ms. Stone's introduction. She states she is running for Select Board "to restore a sense of community in Dartmouth and to find solutions that make that possible. Of course, finding the solutions is only the beginning. If I win your confidence at the election in April, I’ll have three years to work with others on implementing these solutions."
So just where are HER solutions? Oh, she has none, you say?? As a matter of fact, she is just now going to be "finding the solutions" and relying on "work(ing) with others." AND - - she'll "have THREE YEARS (caps mine)to work with others on implementing these solutions" she herself does not have and needs other input to identify.
Perhaps Ms. Stone would be willing to share and provide us with HER plan and HER solutions?
Diane Gibert has our votes. Transparency and accountabilty, this matters most. Our tax dollars are in good hands.
Correction to my 11:19 post. I should have said, "I find it amusing."
You've not even heard the woman speak yet anon 11:19. She just announced her candidacy, geez give the woman a chance!
What is the deal about Gilbert and the reliable bus contract? why is she making unbased accounsations at the school dept. The attorney generals office apparently had no problem . That was stated at a SC meeting. Did she have a financial interest? I also expect more from an elected leader. Transparency for one I guess doesnt apply to Diane. And what about this Elkin house business? historic is one thing money pit is something else.
GEEZ, only two people use this word on blogs Lara and Liz. Next will come YIKES. Fess up women you are reading this so respond.
I don't know how you think Diane has been transparent when it comes to the Akin House anon 11:40. I really also question how well my tax dollars were spent when I hear about the way things were handled there.
Yikes anon 12:40 I'm not Lara or Liz but it sure is fun to keep you guessing!
Anonymous 12:25, my reaction is the result of the Lara Stone supporters who cannot outdo themselves smothering her in accolades without telling us any of her platform. For that matter, neither has Ms. Stone. If you are ready to announce your candidacy, then be prepared at that time to put forth your stand on the issues that affect Dartmouth and its residents. A "feel-good" web site that offers us nothing but an impressive listing of community service and career accomplishments tells us nothing concrete on the politics affecting our community, other than she wants "to restore a sense of community" to the Town.
How?
Reminiscent of a certain Select Board meeting where people couldn't wait to get up to the mike and praise Michael Gagne for the "nice guy" he is, "good friend," "good neighbor," etc., without once mentioning the value and substance of the plan some claim he has presented.
Wait! Maybe it's because he hasn't presented one?
Get the picture?
Woe People! Let's wait and listen to Lara Stone before all of this other nonsense. I am a Gilbert supporter, but I am willing to listen and be civil.
Well I guess anon 12:59 I could ask the same of you about Diane and what's worse is that Diane has been in office for 3 years now. Yes I get the whole contract clauses and Diane has saved us but what comes next?
Geez, this discussion is a waste of time while Lara jogs or skis.
Letters to the school dept? namecalling? ranting without the facts? repeated unbased charges of racism? demanding reliable bus contracts be reinstated despite saving thousands according to the school dept? never mind the money pit. NO thanks I would expect better. What happens when the contracts get changed,and we realize nothing has changed except our legal bill. ABG
Diane Gilbert, How dare you question the business practices of the school dept. The only thing you should do regarding the schools is support mega overrides that don't solve the structural deficit problem and even make it worse. How do you expect us to drive these lowly working class people out of town with exhorbitant, over relied upon property taxes when people like you bring to light things like shady bus contracts.
Lara - 2 big mistakes already:
1. Not asking permission of the hitching post faithful to run for office.
2. Not clearing your vacation with said faithful.
I see a lot of comments here without any substance. If you support one candidate or the other, tell us why and make a substantive argument. Otherwise you are just venting. People can tell the difference. Innuendo and personal comments are not arguments. For instance, the Akin House project was approved by the Community Preservation Committee and the funds voted by Town Meeting. You may not think it a worthy project but a majority of the CPC and Town Meeting did. The school bus contracts are paid from the town funds but administered by the school department. The Select Board has every right to question the process. That's part of the job, oversight. Ms. Gilbert and Ms. Stone are opponents, not enemies. They both have good qualifications and I look forward to hearing what each has to say about their vision for the future. Again, if you support one or the other, tell us why?
I wasn’t questioning the worthiness of the Akin project, I was questioning the way the project was handled and administered by Ms. Gilbert. I was also questioning the way Ms. Gilbert attacks people’s character without any facts exemplified by way she accused Mr. Corrdeiro of discrimination concerning the school bus contracts when in fact the IG’s office found no such offense. Thanks of course for making it clear where your support will be Bill, not that there was a question.
I have known Lara Stone and her family since they first moved to Dartmouth. She is a friend and truly fine person who I have only respect for. However I support Diane Gilbert for Selectmen because she understands Dartmouth government needs to be fixed internally before any really change can take place. I also think Diane could use a image consultant to help her better relate to the entire Dartmouth population, but none of us are perfect? One more term for Mrs. Gilbert and then I welcome Lara to town Government.
If for no other reason, Diane should be reelected to continue working with Bill and Joe to bring to light the circumstances and individuals involved in the contract deal. I think Joe and Bill are on the same page, and Diane is, also. I think the three of them are working toward the transparency, responsibility, and accountability that the prior SB promised us.
Do you fault Joe and Bill for seeking answers to these questions, as well? Diane rocks the boat and if it overturns with someone in it, so be it.
Can we all just get along??
Seems to me there is a whole lot of nonsense going on here. Stop with the personal attacks and discuss issues please, although that is a little difficult to do when you don't know what one's issues are. I admit I am a Gilbert fan but it really shouldn't be too much to ask to put forth your positions if you are running for an elected seat. Diane Gilbert has made it perfectly clear where she stands on issues and she has a public voting record that can be verified. Ms. Stone however is an unknown and should have had ready a platform on her website. I'm sorry but it is no wonder people are complaining. Ms. Stone would do well for herself if she expanded on her website and let the people know SPECIFICALLY what she will be advocating for and voting for if elected.
I agree with John F., Diane Gilbert understands town government. I think Diane remains professional along with most of the board. During the meeting when Gagne supporters spent two hours saying negative things about board members, including Diane, she remained calm and very professional. In my opinion, Diane is the person we need on the SB in 2009.
I haven't decided who I support yet but those asking Ms. Stone for specifics have a point. I wonder if she understands the issues well enough to comment on them specifically. People have been paying much closer attention to town government since the '07 override. It will not play well for Ms. Stone if she evades taking well defined positions on specific issues. As a voter, one thing that I really don't like is the impression that any politician is trying to snowball me. She has some time to specify her positions but I don't think the voters will give her much slack if she remains vague and evasive.
I keep looking for Diane's website so I can see her platform on issues other than the magic contracts. Could someone post the link-thanks.
I just read Curt's blog on Lara's running. I quote Curt, who quotes Ms. Stone: "She added she is 'open' to meeting as many groups in town as possible, 'if it makes sense.'"
Hello? What does THAT mean?
Maybe NOW she'll come out with her positions on the issues?
For anyone interested, "CPR" is not a Lara Stone coinage. Joe Michaud used it in an opinion piece in the S-T a few weeks back.
I'm very interested in hearing some specifics myself. Ms. Stone's proponents can continue to say she's a nice woman, etc. I'm sure George Bush's friends would say he was a nice guy too. Can this thread involve some political substance please? Slinging mud gets us nowhere.
Peace
You are getting closer to an argument but not there yet. What about the way the Akin House was handled specifically bothered you? What do you think should have been done instead? The question asked to the IG had nothing to do with discrimination but was about contract requirements. What specifically do you think happened in regard to contracts that was wrong?
"CPR" was used in a letter written by a Dr. around the override, JMichaud must have pulled it from that.
I do know that it also is not a Joe original. I merely meant that it was he who used the initials in a political context, and you are right, he is not the first one to do so, either. I believe I know the individual you are referring to who did. Lara used the initials that Joe used from someone before him.
Bill;
The Akin House architect & builder (WHALEs) stated that the building was in good shape. Diane disagreed and found a builder who agreed with her. Diane also had numerous disagreements with WHALE about the Akin House and WHALE did not want to go through the hassle of dealing with her and left the project. Now, her group is refusing to cooperation with the CPC about being accountable with the funds they received from the CPA/CPC by producing invoices of what is being spent. Her group's attorney, Perry sent CPC a letter saying they did not have to produce invoices or show how they are spending the money. Any funds issued by CPC/Town Meeting should be held accountable and transparent.
As an FYI, if you check, wages spent by contractors/vendors have to paid under the prevailing wage act which now means more money spent.
As far as the after-school/activities busing contract goes, that issue has been cleared up and your board should have received an explanation as to why the contract was bid out in the manner it was. After several months, the School Department saved the Town a significant amount of money from the transportation budget and will be bidding out the remainder of the year in that manner. Reliable Bus always was able to bid on these trips and never was denied the ability to do so.
What some people have written here, was an e-mail Diane sent accusing the Business Manager of conducting discriminatory practices against Reliable Bus and in effect, diverting the contract to Tremblay. She never asked why the contract was being bid in the manner it was and never asked if Reliable was being denied access to the bid. In essence, she shot first and asked questions later, or in her case, never asked the questions.
The Chairman saved a copy of the e-mail and had a response but thought better in order to preserve the goodwill and cooperation the two boards have built in the last year. Go ask him for the copy.
What?? Dwight a hassle to deal with, no you must joking, right??
I mean i have only seen cooperation and good will oozing from Dwight. This must be a mistake, Dwight say it isn't so.. Or at least have Capt. Flannel come to your rescue, i mean $385,000 is small potatoes to pay to protect the Clubhouse. I mean under CPA guidelines it's not like you could have used that money for something like say Elderly Community Housing or something like that could you?? Let's see i believe it's 10,10,10% then the other 70% you can use anyway you want right??
Wait, wait something just came to me i read it somewhere let's see here it comes "cows don't go to school" Yes!!! There's the priority put into perspective.
Hey wait Whale said the house was structurally sound and she disagreed, wow now she is a structural engineer, Damn so talented i'm jealous.. Hold on something just came to me again, yep i do believe i read on this blog somewhere someone saying how they to got involved and did work at the Clubhouse. Who could that be??? Did they get paid??? How much??? Well, i guess we will never know now will we. So much for transparency.
Assuming that the last poster is referring to me and they are at least talking about issues, let me clarify some untruths in his post. I have not been involved in the Akin House project and have not collected one red cent for any services rendered. As a town meeting member I did not vote for Akin House funding. I made my opinion known to Ms Gilbert. Ms. Gilbert, even though I was in disagreement with her, forwarded all the info that she had about the project in an act of total transparency. I do hold an unrestricted construction supervisor's license and took the time to visually inspect the house. After this inspection and my review of all the contractor invoices and all other correspondance, my opinion was that Whale dropped the ball on this project. The money that has been wasted on this, and I do believe money has been wasted, was money raised by WHALE and not Dartmouth taxpayer money. If the last poster would like to identify himself, I would be glad to go through my entire discovery process with them, but I doubt that will happen. I may not agree with Ms. Gilbert on the Akin House but her integrity and commitment to transparency remains intact.
On to the bus contract issue. There are procurement laws that require sealed bids for larger procurements. Many communities bid their entire bussing package together this way with an economies of scale philosophy. Dartmouth divided their bus contracts up and put them out to a sealed bid. This year however, the School Dept. decided to take the extra curricular contract and divide it further to the point that sealed bids were not needed. I will not comment on the personal differences between those involved in negotiating this contract except to say that I was not impressed with the notification of change by the school and I was also not impressed with the private contractor's behavior towards the people who he wanted to do business with. Anyway, this new bid procedure change that eliminated sealed bids and went to open "quote" raised legitimate concerns by Ms Gilbert about the legality of "bid-splitting" in order to avoid "sealed bids". The Inspector General gave their opinion that it was O.K.
Personally, I feel that because the school admin thinks they will save money and the I.G. okayed it, then let's try it. That doesn't mean that it shouldn't receive scrutiny. We can take a good look at the numbers at the end of the year. Ms. Gilbert may not be the most diplomatic person I know, but her concerns were legitimate and I am glad she took the time to question the policy change. If everbody would put their egos aside, stop making things personal, and focus soley on the issues, we would all be better off.
Diane gets the job done.
Better to question and be wrong than not to question at all. Would we have known about the sweetheart contracts? Do you not have a problem with them, or are they all okay with you?
O.K., enough of the Stone campaign strategy of diverting all attention away from herself and her specific agenda. Can we get some specifics on her positions about the issues please? Does she think the schools can survive on MNSS for the next few years and if not, how does she intend to get them the extra funding? We need specifics about her in order to make our election choice. I don't always agree with Gilbert but at least I know she is honest.
The point is she blew up about the busing contracts without even bothering to check the facts and accused the business administrator of racism in a letter to the school dept. Not exactly sterling behavior. And Ive been told it wasnt the first time
Talk about innuendo. Accusations about accusations of racism with NOTHING to back them up. This isn't one of those people from that group of town meeting members who love to get up and say how they are "insulted" is it? Get over yourself and take a previous posters advice of sticking to the issues without getting personal. Nobody cares who blew up or who got insulted.
Now, can anyone describe any of Lara Stone's specific positions on any of the issues currently facing our town?
Lara Stone is running for the Select Board because she doesn't want to cut spending and services. After all, our taxes are quite low. She wants to use Prop 2-1/2 overrides to get more funding for the school department.
Could Lara please tell me and all of us what she meant by stating she will meet with and speak to groups of people "if it makes sense"? (Curt's blog.)
What is the "IT" she is referring to? Does that mean that she will pick and choose whom she will meet and speak to? From the sounds of that, apparently not everyone in Town counts or is worth her time talking with.
She needs to remember she will SERVE the PUBLIC.
IF she gets elected.
"I am disappointed," Ms. Stone said in an interview with The Standard-Times. "I was hoping he (Bob Miller)would give a new person a chance."
What is it about Ms. Stone that she keeps coming off like an elitist?
First she comes off as too good to talk to the ordinary person, now she thinks she should have a clear playing field?
She needs some lessons in diplomacy and humility.
Is it beneath her to tell us her position on the issues? A lot of us are waiting.
honestly, why would she meet with a group of people who have so little civility, as demonstrated on this blog. i do not know Mrs. Stone, but if the cfrg forum puts the focus on a candidate just to rip them apart the next day on this blog then it clearly does not make sense.
Wow! Put Lara Ston'e name in the title of a thread and you get 141 posts.
Put Diane Gilbert's name in the title of a thread and you get 7 posts.
Lara Stone thinks your taxes are too low. Why not pay $20, $40, or $60 a week more? Your taxes will still be low. Wouldn't you feel better if you just paid $1000, $2000 or $3000 more in taxes. It will hold the town over for a couple of years before they will need more than the normal tax 2.5% increase.
I don't think people here have torn Lara Stone to shreds. I do think that they want her to come clean regarding her positions on issues. How can she expect to win an election with nothing more than vague catch phrases. The Dartmouth voter is smarter than that. I'm sure she will have a well oiled campaign team with a generous campaign budget but like it or not, avoiding the issues will bring some heat. Heat that is well deserved. It looks like anonymous 7:31 is already trying to make excuses for Lara to avoid talking to anyone who wants clear answers to specific questions.
One thing Lara can count on is the Standard Times' endorsement. I'm surprised they haven't endorsed her already. Remember when they endorsed the last override proposal before they even knew what the proposal was? It was classic sub-standard. Hey, S-T, why wait for her to actually tell us she wants an override? Just endorse her now.
Take your time Mrs Stone. THE last place you need to answer to is the hitching post. Since when has appaearing here been a pre-requisite for running for town office. Has Diane answered any questions here? posted anything here? Sought the blessing of anyone here? Give me a break. There are plenty of forums to ccome that will give her an opportunity to present herself and yes even answer questions. Questions that come from people who stand and be counted not throw bombs under anonymous posts. Thanks for stepping up to the plat Mrs Stone.
7:31, I was never under the impression Bill's blog was a CFRG forum. Do you know with certainty these are all CFRG members who are doing all the blogging that you find so uncivil?
These are just people's opinions and perceptions. Besides, if Lara hopes to get elected, she has to learn to deal with all types of personalities, with people from all walks of life, with differing degrees of income, and just plain with the person who has had a long, hard, and/or rotten day and just happens to walk into an SB meeting, and just maybe wants to address the Board as well. We've all had days like that; maybe even borne the brunt of a person like that or even been that person.
She'd better learn to develop a thick skin. It's not going to get any easier in the public eye and in a setting allowing public participation and public expression which, by the way, Diane, Bill, and Joe are encouraging, unlike the prior SB that was very happy to adopt a no-public participation, no-person-allowed-to-speak policy, in an attempt to squelch the public's right to have its voice heard.
I'm only voicing my OPINION. There are ways to convey your message with more tact than her comments did, without sounding insulting or condescending. With her wide range of professional and community activity and interaction with people, that should not be a problem for her. She should be able to do that with ease.
And I'm STILL WAITING for her to announce her position on issues. And I'm not the only one, from reading this blog.
8:54: She doesn't have to answer to the hitching post. She has a website. Have her post her positions there.
P.S. Sign your name, too, maybe??
Still waiting on Diane's web site link or for her to answer questions here on the hitching post. Are her lips locked too?
Come on, you cheapskates, Lara only wants $6 a day in higher taxes. You spend that in Dunkin Donuts. Only $6 a day more on top of the 2 and a half percent you are gonna get anyway.
To quote Meg referencing Lara: "when elected to seee positive solutions proposed and then implemented."
I'm assuming she already HAS the "positive solutions" that she will be at the ready to propose?
Let's hear them now. Don't keep them a secret.
If Lara isn't posting her positions and can't let us in on how she would change things on Bill's blog, maybe she would be willing to do that on her website, or maybe some of her staunch supporters who right now appear to consist of friends and probably family, would be willing to ask her what they are and post them on for her? They have told us what a great person she is and what she will bring to the table skills-wise, but nothing concrete about her positions. Maybe they will be able to help her that way, in getting the word out to all of us who would like to hear just what it is.
It's not unrealistic to question what she stands for. Perhaps those of you who find some of these posts as criticizing her or lacking in civility might stop and consider that maybe it was premature of her to set up a website before thinking out her positions so that she could put them on her website along with her credentials and introduction to herself.
Maybe she put the cart before the horse? Sounds like her enthusiasm got the best of her.
She certainly isn't making herself accessible or people-friendly right now. We are not all of like minds; most of us probably don't know her, but we are supposed to accept her friends' premise that she is a good candidate and will make an excellent addition to the SB, forward-thinking, problem-solving, all that, based simply on the emotions of the posters who obviously like her as a person, but can not tell us what she stands for, either.
I hope we don't have to wait too long and finally see it in her letter announcing her candidacy, which I would imagine she will send to the papers. Her positions certainly should be in that letter, but how long should we have to wait?
I am not a CFRG member, yet I frequent this blog. And as a younger voter I can say nothing but bravo to Bill... Thanks for keeping 'us' informed!
So the $200,000 we forked over to Whale to buy back the clubhouse, who's money was that? What does CFRG stand for again?? CFRG stands for bare essential government, correct? And yet Dwight gets a pass on an almost $400,000 hole in the ground. SO instead of destroying that old relic and putting up maybe a $500k home to help with our revenue shortage, we instead pump thousands into a clubhouse for Dwight to play dollhouse with, very RESPONSIBLE..
Who is "Dwight."
The Community Preservation Act provides for a surcharge of 1.5% on property taxes. That money is matched by the state at between 5 and 100%. The funds generated can only be used for historical preservation, recreational facilities, open space preservation, or affordable housing. It does not come out of the general fund. A percentage of the total is reserved for each of the purposes listed. The funds are administered by the Community Preservation Committee, who recommend projects, and must be appropriated by Town Meeting. Apparently some think they can use the Akin House as an issue against Ms. Gilbert. While she has advocated for the Akin House project, it can not be said that she has had any inappropriate influence in getting the project recommended or the funds appropriated. The history of that structure is quite interesting and significant. You may disagree with it's preservation but a majority of the CPC and Town Meeting voted to fund it.
Yes, and while we're on the subject of CPA/CPC spending, let's talk about our new $325k canoe launch that is Bob Carney's little baby. Couldn't all those things being said about the Akin House be said about that. Barry, the leader of the CFRG, posted that he did not vote for the Akin House and I'll bet that he didn't vote for Carney's canoe launch either.
I like canoes but kayaks are faster.
Watch every word Lara uses she is an artful manipulator and arm twister. Take this from someone who has seen her in action for years. Liz is similar at getting her way. Beware of the wolf in sheeps clothing. Call this comment whatever you wish, but it it the plain truth sorry.
Here's a 2007 quote from Diane Gilbert praising Lara Stone: "Kudos to Dartmouth's Parent Teacher Organization, especially the committee members, led by Lara Stone, who planned and facilitated an open PTO meeting at the Cushman School." Read the rest at http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070111/OPINION/701110305.
So, what is your point. Stone jumped into the call for better understanding of school funding decisions. This was in the middle of the flood of interest. Gilbert wanted parents to ask direct questions about the school budget. There is some waste and skewed priorities. This has been going on for more than a decade. We must get educated professionals on the School Committee to demand a new path in funding decisions and greater accountability of the highest administration. The Superintendent lacks action and understanding of even the school financials. He'll fund sports and the like before the foundation.
The Dartmouth Parents have not assigned positions President, secretary. Liz maintains an email database we've heard. This small group of pretty wealthy "leadership" parents have not inculded all segments of the population and they don't hold open meetings. No one knows if this has even fizzzled out or if it is even in existence. They certainly have not gone above and beyond for this skeletal organization. It has not succeeded so for Lara to keep this high profile on her resume is odd. Dartmouth Parents needed CPR and Lara bailed the Titanic to switch her kids out of Quinn?
Sounds like you are disgruntled anonymous 12:04 and 12:11, why don't you run for SB, SC or try to organize a group of parents yourself?
As I see it, Lara has an agenda and being elected to the SB will enable her to push for it: the schools, AKA override.
She will use the SB as her platform to get an override on the ballot, and use the meetings to push for its passage, exactly like Kathleen Horan McLean did, with her vehement protestations of dire consequences to us all if we didn't vote for it.
Frankly, I found that offensive and distasteful.
Mrs. Dias and Mr. Carney have their own agenda, as well: maintaining the status quo at all costs so that friends and family will not be in danger of losing their town jobs, salaries, benefits, and the like. They certainly don't want anyone to shake things up.
So that seems to leave only Joe, Diane, and Bill with no particular agenda for serving on the Board except to see to it that ALL the residents, taxpayers or not, are the first and foremost priority.
If that means asking some tough questions, rattling a few feathers, holding people accountable, making them uncomfortable in the process, too bad. That's comes with the territory of being a public servant or a public official. The word is "public."
I wonder how long it will be before Lara starts her school override spiel? The SB is her inroad to pushing her position (ah, we DO know one) and her step in the door to reach more people as a visible member of the SB which just happens to have televised meetings and probably even a greater audience than the televised School Committee meeting.
This is the thing there isn't really education support from Gilbert and Trimble and this is a problem for students and achievement in general. Gilbert and Trimble need to act to do something as leaders for the plight of under achievement here. Whether this includes understanding the current situation (MCAS) or looking into revenue or putting pressure on Russell and gang. I agree that Dartmouth parents went nowhere and disappeared. There were no open meetings to discuss the next steps for the group formation or to expand it from the tight inner three to five people to incuding the next 200 people.
Lara needs to explain her resume and viewpoints. Diane needs to refresh us of hers as well. Last election Diane was very non specific about schools and libraries. Not even supportive of COA. SO I think the winner will be the one who is clearest and not wishy washy. Clear and concise will be a breath of spring healthy air. Go to work and tell us your specific beliefs and top ten priority list. Thanks both for wanting to serve, but serving the entire town not just pockets or solely anti tax people.
Diane has had three years to delve into the town's inner workings. We as citizens have also had three years to witness what Diane stands for, what she votes for and against and what direction she thinks the town needs to go. We've had three years to watch her question the issues and do the research. We've had three years to witness her courage to stand against the status quo and be, at times, the only vote out of five in favor of doing the right thing. I say lets give Diane Gilbert three more years to continue her work and the work being done by the Select Board.
CPA 1.5% surcharge = Your tax Dollars
State match which for us is 100% = Your Tax Dollars
Bill it's Honorable that your trying to defend your SB meeting chuckle buddy, Dwight.
She has been one of the lead, if not the lead person in orchestrating one of the greatest NIMBY, Tax shelter projects this state has ever seen all using our tax dollars. Please don't allow her hide behind Town Meeting on this, most people don't realize what they are voting for, it comes across as a good thing for this town when in reality it is a financial drain on this community.
Carney's canoe launch should be sold NOW!!!! What a waste of taxpayer money!!!!! It is only about 3 hundred yards from there to the end of the river !!!! Carney, what were you thinking?
You keep trying but it's not working. Dartmouth citizens were surveyed and the results reflect what the CPC money can be used for. It is not Diane Gilbert's fault that the fund exists, that town meeting voted to fund the Aiken house or that you feel town meeting is uniformed. My response to your sad use of the Aiken house against Diane is "Is that all you've got?".
No specifics yet but come to think of it Diane and the rest have been general and vague during election season too. Does it make it right? Or is it the way of American politics
It's not that hard to paddle up the pasky for several miles for most of the year, and it really is quite beautiful, a lot more relaxing than staring at a computer screen.
ABG is really nasty, this won't help Lara. Raise your rhetoric to civility.
LARA is a PLANT..by the Hathaway HENCHMEN
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