Letter: ‘They have been focusing on this community during very difficult times’
Residents of Grafton,
I am writing to express my support for both Jen Thomas and Donna Stock for our Select Board.
Had anyone asked me 2 months ago, I would have said “anyone but Jen and Donna”. The reason for this, and it is almost embarrassing to admit, was that I was falling into the rabbit hole of participating certain internet discussion groups, advocacy groups, and reading certain “planet” blogs. It is now very clear that these discussion groups are no different than the planet blog authored by a sitting member of the Select Board. They all exist to promote a toxic environment. All serve as nothing more than a platform to attack all others that they disagree with. The challengers are heavily favored by these groups. That alone should concern all residents.
Recently, I (and a former School Committee chair) were banned from all of these discussion groups and accused of providing false information about the “net” school staffing cuts associated with the submitted budget. My position was 100 percent confirmed by the Superintendent. Yet, these facts don’t matter.
To my surprise, I was also banned and all dialog with me was deleted from candidate Matt Often’s Facebook campaign page. I was honestly shocked that Mathew would participate in such tactics. All of our dialog was respectful. This only confirms that Mathew is heavily influenced by these groups.
Is this the representation Grafton residents deserve? None of that is healthy for the Town of Grafton.
Both Jen and Donna have refrained from participating in any of this. They have been focusing on this community during very difficult times and have demonstrated that they have the discipline needed and deserve to be leaders in Grafton.
I humbly ask you to support them as well.
Respectfully,
Mark Johnson
Full disclosure:
I have shared private dialog with candidate Often and my “ban” on his campaign page was lifted, thus restoring all previous dialog. We actually shared some further conversation and seemed to inch closer to a bit of common ground.
Honestly, the SB meeting held on 6/2/20 should make it clear to any resident in this town. Do you support chaos, insults, conspiracy theories? Or, do you support leadership?
I feel that Jen Thomas acted with incredible restraint, professionalism, and leadership while dealing with the childish outbursts of another sitting member.
Also, just watch this upcoming SB meeting on 6/9/20. Donna Stock has submitted “Select Board Policy” to be voted for adoption. Talk about leadership! This policy addresses standards of conduct (including online) for sitting members. Honestly, one would think such a policy shouldn’t need to be memorialized but, thanks to one sitting member, this policy is long overdue.
Do I think either candidate Roy or candidate Often would participate or support the low bar set by a certain member? No. But, I believe that, being new to the board, they will not have the experience and leadership skills to address this member’s outbursts.
Jen and Donna are the only logical choices for Grafton.
Respectfully,
Mark Johnson