Don't Just Stand There...RUN!
The Westwood-Walpole League of Women voters is proud to announce it's sponsorship of a two-day workshop on how to run a successful campaign, titled "Don't Just Stand There...RUN!". The first event will take place on Tuesday, February 10, 2009 in the Westwood Library (Main Branch) Large Meeting Room from 7:30 pm onward. The second night will take place the following day, Wednesday, February 11, 2009 at the Walpole Town Hall Main Meeting Room from 7:30 pm onward.
This is a great non-partisan event hosted by a diverse group of individuals who either have run for elected office or have had experience in the political arena.
If you would like to be on the panel of former or current elected officials, or have had political experience and would like to speak about your travels, please call 781-801-0779.
For more detailed information including street addresses and membership information, please visit http://www.lwvwestwoodwalpole.org
Comments
Don't just stand there.......Run!
I think what Greg and the LWV is doing is great. There is only one problem,it is very difficult to unseat an incumbent. That's one reason there should be term limits.
Another reason is when does that political position become more about that individuals wants then the towns.
These positions where never intended to be careers. If a Selectman for example held office for three terms I would think taking a year of would be good for them and the town.
It would give that individual time to recharge and if they wanted to be Selectman again then they could run the following year. As a resident watch when someone challenges an incumbent, you will see residents from the other boards in town supporting the incumbent. That's kind of a good thing for them, you watch my back I will watch yours. The only problem with that is, it makes it very difficult for new people to get on a board unless an incumbent steps down.
I think what the LWV is doing can be taken to the next level. Keep your eyes on the local paper and hopefully
as residents we can give those who want to run for office a fighting chance.
Kudos to LWV for the effort
I praise the LWV for making the effort and putting the event on. The message for the evening was to get people interested and be more active in local and state politics.
There are many seats open from Planning Board, School Committee to the Board of Selectmen. It's not the town's responsibility to drum up interest. But it is their responsibility to provide the information. I'd like to see a posting of the ALL the open seats, the current board, the incumbent, who has pulled papers and finally a description of the post. What are the expectations? The typical background preferred or required. I believe there would be more interest if the expectation is set for the potential candidate. Many are "cautious" or afraid of the unknown; minimize that fear and provide more information in hopes of greater participation.
I ran for Selectman in 2008 and found it to be one of best life experiences! I met many great people and continue to this day appreciate the support and friendships formed.
/JL
info is on the way
I talked to Town Clerk Dottie Powers and I'll be posting something soon...