I am John McVeigh, and as many of you know, I have proudly served Huntington on the Board of Selectman for the last 3 years and am currently seeking re-election. During my first term on the Selectboard, I have worked effectively with other Board members and town employees and served the town in many capacities. I look forward to continuing to do so when re-elected.
With the many challenges that face rural communities such as ours, I have made it a priority to go out there and get involved by attending meetings and seminars throughout the Commonwealth with state and local groups to see what, if any, relief is available for our town. Maintaining a strong collaborative relationship with our legislators and neighboring towns is critical as we continue to move forward. Problem solving our issues, requires that we explore all areas for possible resource sharing and future regionalization of services. I have played an integral part in positioning our town and developing positive relationships, most recently being appointed by my peers to the Massachusetts Municipal Association’s”Public Works Policy Committee”. Working with other elected officials from across the Commonwealth, we advocate and lobby for policies that work for rural towns such as ours.
While our Board operates as a team, there are certain initiatives I was responsible for and would like to share. Working with Senator Downing, the town secured state funds to purchase a $26,000 snow blower. I have volunteered my time to use this machine to keep the sidewalks of Route 20 and 112 clear of snow providing our school children and seniors with a safe place to walk. I was successful in getting the town reimbursed for a wrongful $6,700 fine levied by the state for the North Hall elevator. I have set up a new Amazon account for our town allowing the purchase of items that are unavailable to be purchased locally. Working along with the Fire Department, I helped to set up the Scrap Metal Dumpster at the town transfer station. The recycling revenue generated enables the fire department association to purchase large ticket items for the department thereby defraying the cost from the town’s operating budget. Currently, I am working on communication upgrades for the town hall that, when completed, would net a yearly savings of approximately $3,000 and a water cistern project for Norwich Hill which, when completed, would lower homeowner insurance rates for those that live in that section of Huntington. As part of my initial campaign, I spoke of bringing back more community events, and have worked with our Board to set the groundwork for bringing back the fireworks. Finally, I am particularly pleased with getting our town designated as a Purple Heart Community to honor our veterans and the town’s overwhelming response to my request to honor our long-term town volunteers. To these people, our community owes a great deal.
It is imperative that our town Select Board continues looking towards the future and not the past. I am a Select Board member that is a true partner to the town. I think outside of the box to find solutions to the challenges facing our town. I have not been idle by any means in my 3 years on the Board. I am constantly working on ways to better the town. I appreciate the support I have received over the last 3 years. It has been an honor to serve. When re-elected I promise to continue to serve with the same work ethic you have witnessed since first electing me. On May 21st, I ask that you cast your vote for John McVeigh. Thank You
