To the editor:
I’m writing to express my strong support for Katie Phelan’s re-election to the Select Board.
The first thing that struck me about Katie was her willingness to talk. I know that may sound simple, but for someone like me who hasn’t engaged much with local political leaders, I didn’t know what to expect. I reached out to her with questions about the Town Administrator selection process, and she got on a call with me almost immediately. What followed was a long, winding conversation about all kinds of aspects of our town. I went in expecting her to do most of the talking — but instead, she mostly listened.
That collaborative spirit stuck with me. It became clear that Katie isn’t just checking a box — she genuinely wants to hear people out. She cared deeply about getting the town administrator decision right, not because it was politically convenient, but because it mattered to her that the town was well-served.
I asked her why she chooses to do this job, which from the outside looks like a lot of effort, a lot of criticism, and not a lot of thanks. She told me her husband grew up here and has a deep love for the town — and that she wants to foster and return that same love by giving back. That stuck with me.
In every interaction I’ve seen, Katie approaches situations without preconceived notions. She listens to all sides and forms her perspective thoughtfully. That’s my strongest measure of a good leader.
And maybe most important of all, not a day goes by where she doesn’t humbly acknowledge a misstep or correct herself. She doesn’t pretend to be infallible — she’s real. And that kind of honesty and humility in leadership is something we need now more than ever.
I hope others in town will join me in supporting Katie Phelan’s re-election. We’re lucky to have her.
Sincerely,
Tivan Amour
Swampscott
Precinct 3
