To the Editor:

I am writing in support of Shahidul Mannan for Board of Selectman. During my tenure on the School Committee, I had the pleasure of working with Shahidul in his role on the Appropriations Committee for several years. His work on the Appropriations Committee gives Shahidul a deep understanding of the budgetary needs of all town departments. Professionally, his work in corporate leadership, budget development and strategic planning provide an excellent foundation for Shahidul to play a key role on the Board of Selectmen in strategically managing growth and maintaining fiscal discipline for the town. He asks probing questions and has forward-thinking ideas about increasing commercial revenue for the town, which will help support growth while lessening the tax impact on individual homeowners. I find Shahidul to be a man of great integrity, intellect and diplomacy, and admire his sincere commitment to all of the residents of Hopkinton. Please join me in voting for Shahidul Mannan on May 20.

— Jean Bertschmann, Hopkinton