Opinion

I’m writing to endorse Ellen Rutter for Hopkinton's Town Moderator. Ellen grew up in a family committed to serving their community. She has applied those values to her life in Hopkinton over the years getting involved in local activities while working fulltime and raising her two sons. I’ve gotten to know Ellen over the last few years and consider her a friend. She’s a Princeton grad, holds an MBA from Fairfield University which she applied to create a very successful Marketing career in top companies.

I’ve come to know Mary Jo LaFreniere over the past few years mostly through her work with town. As a accredited assessor and former member of the board of assessors, she has the insight necessary to take on the budgetary challenges the town faces each year. Her knowledge of how the municipal finance is indispensable. Her dedication to the town is obvious, having served as Commissioner of Trust Funds and on the Tax Relief Committee, as well as serving on the marathon committee. Mary Jo’s background and dedication to our town, I believe, makes her an ideal candidate for the Select Board.

Mary Jo LaFreniere served as District Coordinator in my Senate Office, Representing Hopkinton for 10 years. During that time, she exhibited, exquisitely, all the leadership qualities needed to be one of Hopkinton’s most effective Selectmen ever: she is organized, committed, energetic, intelligent, collaborative and enormously personable, even in stressful situations. Her “marathon” service to Hopkinton is legendary. Throughout all of the challenging situations she faced as the Senate District Director, she was always friendly, collaborative and professional.

Claire Wright for Selectman: A proven, dedicated leader

Having attended many community events and Board of Selectmen's meetings, I am impressed with Ms. Claire Wright's combination of passion for this community and practicality. She seeks to find common ground, bringing together people on contentious issues. She has a sound vision for the future of Hopkinton, and does especially well helping to balance the varying needs of the town. She is also not afraid to take a stand to protect the interests of Hopkinton.