To the editor:
Six years after I first endorsed Peter Spellios for the Select Board, I enthusiastically recommend Peter for re-election to continue his exceptional work.
Peter’s accomplishments, leadership, integrity, experience and character demonstrate why he earned my endorsement.
I provide some history and facts to help you understand the basis of my opinions.
More than 15 years ago, I met Peter when I joined the Swampscott Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). During several years working with Peter as members of the ZBA, Peter always invited debate and respected other member’s opinions. Peter appreciated opposing viewpoints and spirited, healthy dialogue.
The town of Swampscott benefited greatly from Peter’s contributions intellectually and practically. When Peter decided to leave the ZBA to run for an elected position on the Select Board, I explained my plan to resign from the ZBA to him.
As chair, the time commitment was difficult to balance with work and family. Peter encouraged me to reconsider. He expressed confidence in my ability to participate in important pending projects, and promised to work to strengthen the ZBA through increased support from Planning and Development and convinced me to remain. Due solely to Peter’s persuasive and convincing discussion, I remain as a volunteer member.
As a Town Meeting member, I witnessed on many occasions Peter’s ability to crystallize issues in simple, easily understood language and passionately present his position to the town-wide body.
Peter applied his steady hand to the town’s fiscal management, insisting on transparency and fairness to the taxpayers in adopting zero-based budgeting. I do not recall any point in time that I felt more confident about the state of Swampscott fiscal management than now.
During Peter’s tenure, the town achieved control over ever-increasing real estate tax increases, providing a model for other envious municipalities across the state. Peter is persistent in developing talent, supporting innovation and acting in the best interest of all town residents.
Peter’s steady hand helped guide the town through the pandemic.
Of course, there are some residents who feel Peter does not represent their interests. Certain issues, such as the rail trail and the new elementary school are particularly polarizing. Peter is not afraid to support an unpopular opinion while understanding and appreciating the best interest of all town residents.
Peter’s moral compass is exceptional. I look at so many accomplishments Peter contributed to throughout the town, such as the turf field, dog park, rail trail, beach improvements, transparency in town government and efforts to address our school building issues.
To paraphrase the closing sentences of my prior endorsement of Peter: “This isn’t just another letter in support, because Peter isn’t just another candidate.”
In my opinion, Peter Spellios is the best, most talented and most important elected official in the town of Swampscott during my residency. Your vote is critical and I hope you share my gratitude and will vote for Peter.
Marc Kornitsky
Swampscott
