It is with mixed emotions that I have decided not to seek a third term as a member of the Swampscott Select Board.
Between my 12 years on the Zoning Board of Appeals and six as an elected official, I am very proud of our many achievements which have had a positive impact on the town.
It is very humbling when you are elected to office, and it has truly been a privilege serving those who put their faith in me as their representative.
While I can be outspoken and occasionally controversial, I always tried to remember that my role as selectman is to be an advocate for my constituents and not simply use the position to further my own personal agenda.
Sometimes that leads to difficult decisions with challenging consequences. I have always taught my children to be respectful of other people’s opinions, but not to back down from something you believe.
One of the things I have learned over these past 18 years is that life is a gift, and it offers us the privilege, opportunity, and responsibility to give something back by becoming more.
I have also had the benefit of working with some extraordinarily talented people who are passionate about Swampscott.
In addition to the dedicated people who manage Town Hall, I would like to acknowledge Peter Spellios for the hard work he does on behalf of the town. As many know, Peter and I disagree on many things, but I have come to respect Peter’s dedication to what he believes in and how strongly he advocates for what he believes is in the best interest of Swampscott.
The past couple of years have been extremely challenging for all of us, not to mention the political issues the town has been thrust into.
I believe many people have become disengaged and are frustrated with our town government. I think we should all pause and remember the core values that made us a great small-town community.
I think this is a critical time for all of us, including our elected officials, to re-evaluate where we are and where we are going. Let’s not create solutions for problems we do not have.
Volunteering for town government is one of the most important things an individual can do, and while it has its challenges, it can be a truly enriching experience. Our town has many passionate volunteers, and I would encourage everyone to try and get involved.
Last, I would like to thank my family who allowed me to take time away from them to serve the town. What most people don’t realize is public service is not simply a sacrifice of time; it is a sacrifice of privacy with family coming under public scrutiny as well.
I was exceptionally proud at how my family rallied to defend our reputation when we came under criticism two summers ago.
Despite everything, I never heard anything other than, “Dad, as long as you feel what you’re doing is right, we are with you.” I think I actually learned more about resiliency from them then they did from me.
Again, thank you for letting me represent you and I wish my colleagues, and whoever is elected to take my place, the very best. Go Big Blue!
Donald M. Hause
