The future of Canton depends on upcoming town election

By Guest

Dear Editor:

Our annual town election is Tuesday, April 8. This election is of paramount importance and will shape the future of our community.

Your vote and that of every registered Canton voter matters — now more than ever! Regrettably, only 17 to 20 percent of registered voters typically participate in the town election. This means that most of the registered voters defer to the minority to determine our town’s leadership and governance. It is crucial to recognize that this low voter turnout is not reflective of the will of the entire community.

This year’s ballot includes John Connolly’s seat on the Select Board, which he is seeking to retain for another three-year term. I would like to draw your attention to several key issues that should be considered when voting.

First, the Select Board is responsible for overseeing the Canton Police Department. However, despite citizens’ concerns regarding policing and safety, the Select Board has declined to provide police oversight. Instead, they have relinquished their responsibility to the CPD, which has been criticized for its lack of accountability.

Second, the town is responsible for conducting performance reviews for key positions. However, as revealed in an op-ed published in the Citizen, the town has failed to conduct meaningful performance reviews for certain positions. This lack of oversight has led to concerns about the effectiveness of the town’s leadership.

In the private sector, organizations that fail to provide oversight on critical areas and/or conduct meaningful performance evaluations face severe consequences.

When the Select Board refused to provide oversight, courageous citizens petitioned for a Special Town Meeting to vote on an independent audit of the Police Department. Few could forget that night in November 2023, when 2,000 voters packed the high school to vote on the audit, despite the most hostile and threatening conditions intended to suppress the vote.

When the brave voters raised their hands in support, John Connolly promptly jumped from his seat in protest, holding up his orange voting card, demanding a re-vote. This required two additional hand-raised votes and under hostile conditions. Fortunately, the 903 brave proponents were not deterred.

It is noteworthy that Police Chief Helena Rafferty is also seeking a three-year contract. She is aware that if Connolly is re-elected, her contract will be secured. She understands that if voters vote for his challenger, Susan Harrington, she will not have her vote.

Our community has endured extraordinary hardships. Many families and lifelong friendships have been shattered and may never be restored. In my opinion, the lack of town leadership and adequate police oversight is a significant contributing factor.

In Canton, we have witnessed exceptionally qualified candidates lose elections by narrow margins. Every single vote counts!

Susan Harrington is a 27-year, successful business leader and has been actively involved in community outreach. I urge you to join me in spreading the word to elect Sue. Canton’s future hinges on your vote.

This is your opportunity to demonstrate support for the courageous individuals who continue to advocate for the safety and well-being of our town. Utilize your voice and vote for Susan Harrington on April 8.

Rita Lombardi

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