As a lifelong resident of Sturbridge, I have always loved and cherished this community, which was a significant influence in my decision to run for the position of selectman.

Now, as a member of the Sturbridge Board of Selectmen, I have a great responsibility to represent the residents of this community and to ensure that the determinations made are done so in a manner that reflects the best interests of the community as a whole.

With that in mind, I have decided to establish a forum for the presentation of ideas, concepts, or general discussions, as well as a venue for the communication of issues, in a less formal and hopefully more accessible medium. Thus, at least over the short term, I will be utilizing this site as a communications vehicle.

In seeking your vote during my campaign I pledged that I would ensure open, accessible, and objective representation of Sturbridge residents. To that end it is my most sincere hope that this forum will help to spur productive and healthy dialogue among residents, while providing a venue for the submission and development of ideas.

As there are many issues facing the Town of Sturbridge both in the short term and long term, there are certainly no quick fixes and no panaceas that will produce significant and overwhelming changes overnight. It took some time for these issues to develop, and it will take some time to address them, but that should not prevent us from starting down the path toward the identification and mapping of strategies.

We must also remember that some issues by their very nature - such as those requiring a Public Hearing - can only be discussed or addressed in a formal meeting and/or public hearing, so there are times when discussion or input from me, must, and will, be withheld. Barring those limited situations, I will certainly make every attempt to engage productive dialogue and/or at least acknowledge ideas or thoughts, while considering their merits or lack thereof, and their relevance to the larger picture.

Though I will be unable, and at times unwilling, to respond to every thought conveyed, I assure you that I will carefully consider every constructive thought offered.

I respectfully request that any comments left in relation to issues discussed in this forum be respectful, courteous, and void of derogatory references. Such comments will be deleted immediately.

I thank all of you for the opportunity to be of service to you, and hope that together we can achieve the economic stability and vitality necessary for our future.

I am honored and privileged to serve you.

Sincerely,

Scott Garieri