Week of September 25

This week’s town meetings. Get Involved. Stay Informed.

Town calendar subject to change; see full calendar by clicking graphic below.

Zoning Commission, In Support of Zoning Candidates: September 22, 2023

To the Editor:

We have a beautiful lake, great school system, friendly neighborhoods. Many dedicated volunteers, professionals, and officials keep Marlborough moving in a positive direction, correct direction when needed, foster growth and development in a responsible and sustainable manner. There has been concern in recent years about zoning rules and regulations, whether these are adequate, well researched, and more to the point, whether these are implemented fairly, honestly and transparently. Citizens want to be and ought to be heard. The upcoming municipal election offers an opportunity to consider who will play significant roles as regulations, land use, lake protections, and development are brought to the table for consideration, approval, or appeal. The Democratic Town Committee has considered thoughtfully and endorsed exceptionally qualified, diverse individuals for these positions. Zoning Commission: Charles Denler, whose family has been in Marlborough since the 1800’s, built over 100 homes in town along with his father. On the Zoning Board this award winning musician plans to continue building Marlborough as a vibrant, thriving community. Bill Lardi, a municipal building official and contractor for over 40 years, has served on the school renovation committee and is currently on the Zoning Board of Appeals. Zoning Commission, Alternate: Nick Hale, is a 21 year old UConn student pursuing degrees in Political Science and Public Policy. His special interest is in attracting and keeping younger residents. Zoning Board of Appeals: Erica Gorman, an account manager at Microsoft, with a vast technology background, is a skilled, proactive collaborator. Her interest is in making the appeals process respectful and equitable. Zoning Board of Appeals Alternate: Anthony (Tony) Bratz is a mechanical engineering supervisor at Electric Boat, currently serving on the Water Pollution Control Authority. His expertise on infrastructure is invaluable to future development considerations. Vote for the Democratic Zoning TEAM.

Ann Terezakis - Marlborough

MES Board of Education, Jean Wilson: September 22, 2023

To the Editor:

Schools are the backbone of any small town. Our schools need administrations and school board members who are deeply committed to shared community values, to excellent educational facilities, and who are able to make connections with the community. We have major issues facing education today including school safety, erasing COVID-era learning deficits, computer security, AI usage policies, and a lack of air-conditioned school buildings, just to name a few.

As a candidate running for the Marlborough Board of Education this fall, I believe that by working collaboratively, we can find solutions for these pressing issues. I have worked in education for over thirty years as a teacher and trainer and bring expertise in instructional/curriculum design and in many instructional technologies. In my current position, I run Blackboard, an online learning platform at a nearby private university and I help faculty apply best practices for applying a variety of technologies in teaching and learning, including teaching online.

While working at the University of Massachusetts, I built and put online a cable TV station, where I mentored and advised many students, many of whom I am still in touch with today. These experiences have taught me how extremely important it is for teachers to understand the uses, strengths, and concerns that technology brings to education.

I have previous board experience, having served four years on the RHAM Board of Education during the tumultuous COVID years, so I understand how vital a Board of Education is and how it works. In addition, I have also served on a local library board. In all work and volunteering, I am considered frugal, fair-minded, and honest.

My family has lived in Marlborough for over twenty years and regularly participates in various community organizations. We chose Marlborough because of the reputation of its schools and our child attended both MES and RHAM. Our child’s exposure to the fantastic teachers and high quality education here in Marlborough has led to many successes.

Please vote for me in the upcoming November 7th election so we may continue to uphold the tradition of excellence at MES.

Sincerely,

Jean Wilson, Marlborough

Candidate for MES Board of Education