Frances M. Topping – Planning Commission

Frances Topping, an artist, educator and naturalist, is interested in the health of the environment and translating some of nature’s wonders into paintings or teaching about nature. She has a broad worldview and experience. She grew up in England, lived in Canada and Ohio before coming to Charlestown in 2002. Her background in geography, botany and zoology gives an overall view of the physical, economic, natural and social environment. These combine to allow her to study problems from different perspectives and aid in protecting Charlestown. “As a Planning Commission member I strive to keep Charlestown the jewel and oasis it is. I have no business interest that would be conflicting with decisions. I have lived here for 17 years and value, as do most residents, its rural charm, farms, forests, ponds and rivers as well as the clean beaches and small town feel. The independent stores are a treasure. These features are worth protecting as is the environment that sustains us all. Protection creates a healthy environment that benefits people and wildlife. Some modest development that ensures a sustainable business area of small locally owned businesses that respect the community is to be expected, but not major disruptions to the community as we witnessed in the High Speed Rail proposal or other large enterprises. These are not protecting Charlestown. The town’s planning commission members are one key to this protection. I would like to continue to work for the people of the town, as I have for the past four years, in maintaining stability, integrity and an open minded viewpoint, protecting Charlestown from changes that would profoundly alter the character of this beautiful place.”