LEVERETT, MA (FRANKLIN COUNTY NOW) — Leverett is the only town left in the state to elect their public officials on the floor of the Town Meeting. This year there are several seats up for election on the Board of Health, Library Trustees, Planning Board, School Committee, and Select Board. Candidate statements are rolling out, beginning with two candidates running for re-election on the Planning Board.

From the Leverett Election Newsletter:

Tim Shores

I’m running for a second term on the Planning Board. Over the past five years I’ve worked on the comprehensive plan, dug into our zoning and land use history, dealt with Chapter 40B development politics, and researched zoning updates that comply with changes in the law or that better meet local needs. I favor slow change and responsive government. I try to be a good communicator and a good listener. I try to own my mistakes and do better. I’ve had a ton of great conversations with people around town about what they want for the future of Leverett, and I’d like to keep building on that. I’ve learned to understand how our zoning bylaw, land use, buildings and infrastructure are an intrinsic part of our day-to-day lives, our ability to show up for each other as good neighbors, and the long-term vision of our community. Planning and land use have a big impact on our finances, our social fabric, our public health and our environment. It’s important work, and I’d be grateful if you elect me for another five years.

Richard Nathhorst

I am running for reelection to the Leverett Planning Board. I am the senior member of the Planning Board and the Vice Chair, the FRCOG Leverett Representative to the Franklin Regional Planning Advisory Board. 

The FRCOG Franklin County Energy Coalition, The Planning Board member of the Community Preservation Commission, and a member of the Leveret Energy Committee. 

I have been working on the adoption of the new Massachusetts Model Flood Plaining Bylaw and the Dudleyville Road Improvement project which has brought in more than $1M in state highway funding to date.  I would like to continue my work on the Leverett Planning Board and so am running for another term on the Planning Board.

The Annual Town Meeting will be held on May 2nd.