Your Voice: A letter from candidate Philbrick

Paul Philbrick (Courtesy photo)

It has been a privilege to serve as Selectman for the past 15 months, and I thank you for the opportunity. I have learned a lot during those months and I would like to use that knowledge to go forward and carry out the goals listed below.

1. Listen carefully, be slow to speak and to judge, respect the speaker, research the concern and respond to the requestor as quickly as possible.
2. Abide by State and Federal laws, Town ordinances, and policies as written even when it is not the "politically correct" thing to do. Bring before the voters any controversial ordinances for review/correction. Review all policies that are on the books to see if they are still applicable and they meet the Town of Lebanon residents' approval.

(Referendums 7 & 8 are examples of practices that have not been determined by the Town, but by past select boards as seen fit)

3. Work with those who are looking to improve the governing body of the Town and determine the best avenue for the Town to go. If the Town Manager style of government is the desired route, then identify specifically what the duties of the Manager will be before placing the position before the voters. (To date, examples of discussions by Town residents include, overseeing the Town Office, Transfer Station, possible Road Commissioner to be added as additional duties, etc.)
4. Continue to support and work with Chief Meehan in combining the departments and improving the working conditions for both departments. Continue to work towards eliminating the penalty fees for missed calls, which may require paid personnel to be on duty at peak times. Reward/recognize those who go beyond the call of duty in their service to the community. (Referendums 9, 11, & 13 address the Fire and Rescue Departments)
5. Establish additional Capital Reserve Funds for municipal building repairs/projects, highway/road improvements, and bridges to go along with the fund we currently have for the Fire Department

(Referendums 10, 17, 18, & 24 are examples of the usage of Capital Reserve Funds.)

6. Work with the Road Commissioner and Engineering personnel to develop a long term plan to address the road issues. Ensure highway tax dollars are spent carefully to obtain as much road improvement as possible.

(Referendums 16, 17, & 18 address highway funding)

- Paul Philbrick,

selectman candidate