Please join me in supporting Joe Clark and Brian Herr in the Select Board race. Joe and Brian have the financial background, experience and understanding of Hopkinton that we need at this time. We face difficult decisions, and thoughtful consideration of those features that make our town special will be needed to move our town forward in a positive manner. Brian and Joe offer the combination of skills best suited to this task.

Joe Clark represents a voice grounded in our past but looking forward, to ensure Hopkinton is a place for our and our children’s future. When I first moved to town 30 years ago, I met Joe’s grandfather, who told me his daughters lived “downtown,” which I assumed to mean Boston. He meant downtown Hopkinton, a small-town understanding of place that I feel is critical to maintain. I consulted with Joe’s father when constructing the Center Trail, and his pragmatic approach to safety requirements saved us all money while ensuring safety. In speaking with Joe, I hear someone understanding of the requirement to move forward for long-term and new residents alike. And I see someone with the training, education and grounding to make responsible decisions to that end.

Brian Herr has been a steady financial voice over his many previous years on the Select Board, a perspective that will be critical as we face necessary difficult financial decisions. I met Brian when he was going door-to-door on his first campaign, and I was impressed then by his willingness to listen. I’m not sure I voted for him then, and over the years, we’ve certainly disagreed on many issues. However, I’ve always respected Brian’s laser focus on the financial needs of our town and, more importantly, his character. Currently, he and I disagree on how the downtown project will work when completed. Despite that, I am confident that if I’m correct, Brian will look pragmatically to the best ultimate outcome for the town. Brian’s commitment to the town and his years of running the Boston Marathon show a strong sense of place, an understanding that I feel is important as we move forward.

Joe and Brian understand Hopkinton’s past, are aware of our present challenges, and have the background necessary to help us forge our best future. Please join me in voting for them on May 20.

— Peter LaGoy, Hopkinton

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