The Nov. 4th vote is fast upon us and although the Presidential election is paramount to most voters, I urge Charlestown voters to pay close attention to the Town Council, Planning Commission and State Rep races. After being hijacked by Town Councilor James Mageau for two years, Charlestown finally has a chance to get out from under the thumb of this destructive, vindictive individual and bring back civility, transparency and good government to Charlestown. Mr. Mageau--who has been found guilty of assaulting a Charlestown resident--has brought town government to its lowest point in years and continues to come up with expensive programs that will break the back of taxpayers. His handpicked lawyer--Bob Craven--costs more in attorney services than past legal counselors. His exorbitant plan to build a Ninigret Park concert facility in this deteriorating financial climate means an increase in taxes for every resident of Charlestown. His clamoring for a $1.6 million East Beach pavilion was sheer folly for taxpayers-- who would bear the brunt of the bill-- since it was determined the facility could be built for a mere $500,000. And his myopic suggestion that Charlestown might build a town wide sewer system at a cost of nearly $100,000 to $150,000 per taxpayer is ridiculous. It's clear, Mr. Mageau is no friend of the taxpayer.

There is reason to cheer, however, in that Charlestown has a slate of candidates that will bring fiscal responsibility, good government and reasoned decisions back to the Town Council. I heartily endorse Greg Avedesian, Charlene Dunn, Marge Frank, Richard Hosp, and Forrester Safford for Town Council. These are seasoned, long time residents who put citizens and financial constraint first and foremost. They come from every walk of life, every part of town and do not beat to the same drummer. They have individual thoughts but collectively will do what is best for Charlestown. For Planning Commission, my vote goes to Vic Dvorak, Gordon Foer, Kathryn O'Connor and Kate Waterman. These individuals have stepped forward to promise to make measured decisions about the future of Charlestown development, while being mindful of a tough economic environment that needs to welcome commerce to Charlestown.

Kallie Jurgens