Marblehead selectman says he’s stepping down

MARBLEHEAD – After eight years as a selectman, Jeffrey Shribman is stepping down.Shribman made his announcement at the conclusion of Wednesday’s board meeting, 10 weeks before the May 14 town election.Noting that his service to the town included 10 years on the Board of Appeals before his first successful run for a selectman’s seat, Shribman said, “I assume my service is not over, just this part of it.”Although he is a Democrat, his political leanings are “a little liberal” and his colleagues on the board have included some Republicans and some Democrats, Shribman said, “All it takes to make this board work is an understanding that whether you agree or disagree with someone the discourse is civil and (you understand) that your colleagues have the best interest of the town.”In addition to his appreciation for his wife, Robin, and his children, Leslie and Doug, he thanked Selectman Judy Jacobi, who has served on the board for seven of his eight years and “attempted to watch out for me,” Town Administrator Tony Sasso, who he considers “a very close friend,” and the voters.His colleagues – Selectmen Chairman Harry Christensen, Selectmen Jackie Belf-Becker and Jacobi – all expressed appreciation for Shribman’s sense of humor as well as his expertise and respect.”You’ve done a great job and the town is better for it,” said Selectman James Nye.Although Christensen admitted teasing Shribman about being born “across the border” in Swampscott, he also said his colleague “loves this town and the people in it.”Sasso thanked him for his courage as well. “You’ve never shied away from anything,” he said.Hearing all the praise brought out Shribman’s sense of humor once again. “I wish my mother were here to hear this,” he said.