As the 2008 elections draws near I find my attention divided between the national presidential elections and local politics in Charlestown where I am a year-round resident and voter. Like many Americans, I have watched the Presidential and Vice-Presidential debates and have done my research so I can cast an informed vote for the future of our country. But our local election in Charlestown is also important. Residents must consider which candidates will help maintain the current quality of life we enjoy, and who is best qualified to make prudent public policy decisions that will affect Charlestown in a positive way.

Considering what the town of Charlestown has endured during the past two years with a dysfunctional Town Council and a compromised town government, thoughtful residents must understand that their choice of local candidates for 2008 is critical. Can we as a town continue to function with a council that lacks civility toward each other and its citizens? Can we function effectively when town officials are hired without an honest search for the best candidates? Can we tolerate elected officials who violate the law, and who attack vocal citizens with anger, slanderous comments, and frivolous lawsuits and complaints? Do we want officials who value special interests over the interests of the citizens? Do we want elected officials who misrepresent the issues and distort the facts for personal gain of special-interest friends and contractors?

Of course we all know the answers to these questions. The residents of Charlestown deserve better! Please do not reappoint the major cause of Charlestown's problems, Councilman Mageau, or candidates he endorses. We need to consider other qualified people to help promote change and ensure a positive future for Charlestown.

The Charlestown Citizens Alliance has reviewed all of the candidates running for local political office and has endorsed the ones that we believe offer the best chance for Charlestown to restore open and good government. When you go to the polls on November 4th consider the experience, qualifications, and integrity of the candidates before you pull the lever, and please don't automatically vote a straight party ticket. Make a thoughtful and informed vote for our future. For more information, visit our website at charlestowncitizens.org and find out why we think these candidates are the best qualified. For Town Council we endorse; AVEDISIAN, DUNN, FRANK, HOSP, and SAFFORD. For the Planning Commission we endorse; DVORAK, FOER, O'CONNOR, WATERMAN, and for State Representative we endorse MCHUGH.

Daniel Slattery, President Charlestown Citizens Alliance.