Charlestown Planning Commission Candidates

Gordon is a retired pharmaceutical executive who believes strongly in local control of planning and zoning, and believes the town should do all it can to educate the legislature and governor about the importance of protecting Charlestown’s irreplaceable natural resources. Gordon’s impressive history of leadership, his education in science, his experience as a member of a zoning board, and his commitment to Charlestown’s natural resources will make him an excellent member of the Charlestown Planning Commission.

Coleen is a small business owner, professional comedian, motivational speaker and former special education teacher who is committed to preserving Charlestown’s natural resources, history and character. She believes that it is possible to focus on preservation and work with all parties to find solutions that will best serve our community as a whole as we grow. Coleen contends that even though she has traveled all over the world, Charlestown is truly the most wonderful place she has ever been.

Ruth currently serves on Planning, has a BS degree in Biology, and a long career in science and technology. Her work in land conservation led to the preservation of most of the public open space in our town. She is an invaluable leader in the effort to stop the federal plan to bisect northern Charlestown with new rail lines, in the fight for local control of land-use decisions, and in the protection of our groundwater. We need Ruth’s knowledge and experience on the Planning Commission to continue to protect our environment, our economy, and our quality of life.

Frances is a Natural Science Illustrator, fine artist, educator and naturalist. She has both a Bachelor of Science in Geography with Botany and Zoology and a Bachelor of Fine Arts. She has served on the Charlestown Planning Commission for 12 years where she has demonstrated her work ethic, eloquent writing skills, and impressive knowledge of the local environment. Frances is a past member of the Conservation Commission and volunteers for the RI Wild Plant Society and other groups and has lived here for 24 years.