Michael Szostak, of Stage Road in Guilford, is seeking re-election to a two-year seat on the Selectboard.
GUILFORD-I'm running for re-election to the two-year seat on the Guilford Selectboard.
Patty and I moved here from Pennsylvania 26 years ago, primarily so she could live her dream of having a team of draft horses and sugaring with them. For me, my dream was working in a hardware store. I landed a job at Brown & Roberts, and Patty was able to live her dream but, sadly, she died far too young.
Our horses are now gone, and Phil's cows graze in our pastures. But Elizabeth and I carry on.
I have over 60 years of work and business experience, with a wide range of various jobs, including groundskeeper, store clerk, technician, technical writer, counselor, and administrator.
Over these years, I've served on four boards, although this is my first elected political position. After 18 years, I retired from my most recent job at Brattleboro Union High School working with kids in our restorative justice program. I still do some part-time restorative consulting work.
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As a newcomer to the Guilford Selectboard, over the past year, I've learned a great deal, partly by making some mistakes. But I'm proud of the transparency we've maintained throughout our deliberations, our budget management, and our increased community engagement. This record is what I plan to help continue and improve upon.
As a Selectboard member, these are things I consider when making decisions, all equally important:
• Adhering to local, state, and federal requirements
• Helping ensure the financial health of Guilford
• Listening, thoughtfully considering, and openly discussing differing views and issues, including those of people who may not have a strong voice at the table
• Helping ensure people are treated equitably
• Helping retain the historical character, values, beauty, and way of life in Guilford
Lastly, I try to remember that currently 56 families in Guilford have not been able to pay their taxes, amounting to over $400,000. I bear this in mind, in all my decisions, as a reminder of the serious challenges faced by many people in our community, especially those on fixed and limited incomes.
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My roots are not as deep as those of some families in Guilford, but they've taken strong hold. I have no specific financial or business goals other than to live out the remainder of my life here in Guilford, to see our community's unique spirit prevail, and as our population ages, to see young families, with differing backgrounds, join us.
Whether you vote for me or not, I appreciate the time you've taken to read this. Thank you.
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