To the editor:
I am writing to express my strong support for MaryEllen Fletcher for the Swampscott Select Board.
As someone who grew up in Swampscott and has lived here my entire life, I have a deep love for this town and its community. I raised two children here, ran a business in town, bought my home here, and have fished from its waters for as long as I can remember.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, I worked closely with the town government while running and licensing my restaurant. Even when disagreements arose, there was a mutual respect and a willingness to consider differing viewpoints among the Select Board and town departments — a level of civility I now realize I had taken for granted. Over the past decade, however, I’ve witnessed a decline in collaboration on the Select Board, which has trickled down through town management and contributed to growing divisiveness in our community.
MaryEllen Fletcher’s presence on the Board has been a breath of fresh air and a crucial step toward reversing that trend. She brings a steady, collaborative approach back to town government. I’ve watched her maintain a calm, respectful demeanor during meetings — even in the face of criticism or efforts to derail productive dialogue. She remains focused, thoughtful, and inclusive.
MaryEllen’s dedication to Swampscott is evident in the countless hours she has committed to our town and its citizens. She makes herself accessible to everyone and consistently shows up with purpose and care.
As we head into the upcoming election, we must ask ourselves what kind of community we want to be. We’re at a turning point, and we have the opportunity to return to a town where people can disagree respectfully while still working together toward shared goals for our beloved seaside community.
My ancestors settled in this town nearly 400 years ago, and I believe they would agree: MaryEllen Fletcher is the right choice for Swampscott’s Select Board.
Sincerely,
John P. Ingalls
Swampscott
