Finance Committee membership

[Unregistered]

It appears that Walpole now has it's own version of the St. Valentine's day massacre. Jon Rockwood,town moderator, and the appointing authority of the town's Finance Committee, has told all 5 members up for re appointment that they WILL NOT BE APPOINTED!! Many have served for years with dignity and perseverance during difficult times and controversial issues. WHY? Is this,coupled with the changes on the BOS, the moderator's idea of appropriate change telling hard working volunteers that they can go pound sand.Are we all experiencing a NEW attempt at TAKOVER of our town government by a faction bent on change at any cost? With whom are they aligned? What is their intent ?
Obama did not deliver the change that the people wanted, I wonder if the moderator will end up doing more harm than good?

[Unregistered]

Town moderator Jon Rockwood has told the 5 fin com members who are up for reappointment that they WILL NOT BE REAPPOINTED. What is up with that?? The 5 have experience/status that encompasses former selectman ,decades of fincom dedication, school etc.It also includes the long term chairman . Is this the change the voter wanted. Some of the remaining members must be pondering their fate and may be questioning their willingness to serve under such a cloud. Will TG ask him what is his thinking?

[Unregistered]

Our town moderator, John Rockwood did not reappoint the current members of FinCom.
Here is a link to the story on Wicked Local Walpole.
I would like to hear your comments.
http://www.wickedlocal.com/walpole/news/opinions/x1143361192/Letter-Finance-Committee-members-should-have-been-reappointed

[Unregistered]

http://www.wickedlocal.com/walpole/news/opinions/letters/x1143361192/Letter-Finance-Committee-members-should-have-been-reappointed

[Unregistered]

http://www.wickedlocal.com/walpole/news/x680545824/Moderator-denies-reappointment-to-5-FinCom-members

[Unregistered]

http://www.wickedlocal.com/walpole/news/opinions/letters/x1143361192/Letter-Finance-Committee-members-should-have-been-reappointed

Very disturbing. It is like an entire new era of using public office for personal agendas has been usherred in in Walpole. And it all starts at the top. If the Chairman of the BOS refuses to re-cuse herself from an obviously controversial issue, then why should anyone else be expected to hold themselves to a higher standard?

[Unregistered]

So the moderator has taken a good chunk of the Fin Com, basicly all the fiscal conservatives. Should we brace for the cry for overrides to start soon?
Will the moderator be appointing more town employess or their spouses to be the "fiscal watchdogs" for the town?
He seems to think we need people who's family income comes from the town overseeing the town.

Excuse me, you say "should we brace for the cry for more overrides" but this is the SAME FinComm that voted 13-1 to send the ridiculously flawed police station override to the ballot this year, correct? That's the one that voters soundly rejected 80% to 20%! Yeah, true fiscal conservatives, the whole lot of them!

Can anyone say when the last time this FinComm rejected an override proposal?

I'm sure the those removed are good people who served the town with their best intentions, but shouldn't we at least wait to see a list of replacements before making assumptions about how the new FinComm will lean?

[Unregistered]

Rockwood is only doing what the public wants. Isn't "vote 'em out" the mantra of everyone these days? Well, this is what it looks like, Careful what you wish for.

[Unregistered]

So he decides not to bring these 5 people back. How do those 5 spots get filled? Do they get filled? I'm not very familiar with how the Finance Committee works, but I do recognize most of, if not all of those names, and they are definitely people who would have the best interest of the residents of Walpole in mind. Seems kinda weird to me.

[Unregistered]

Mahatma Gandhi said: "Be the change you want to see in the world."

Rockwood is changing the Finance Committee because he believes change
is necessary. However he also says he is running for TM next year.
In the words of Mahatma Gandhi "Be the change you want to see in the world".

Change in Fin Com, change in TM.

[Sparky]

So he decides not to bring these 5 people back. How do those 5 spots get filled? Do they get filled? I'm not very familiar with how the Finance Committee works, but I do recognize most of, if not all of those names, and they are definitely people who would have the best interest of the residents of Walpole in mind. Seems kinda weird to me.
He appoints them. It is a remarkable amount of individual authority to be able to fill the seats of the most powerful board in town. The FinCom essentially controls where the town spends its money. Sure, Town Meeting must vote on appropriations, but the opportunity to set the budget to be voted upon is a huge responsibility.

[Unregistered]

Why does the Town Meeting Moderator have that kind of authority? How does appointing the FinCom relate to moderating the Town Meeting?

[Unregistered]

Where none resides, leadership fills-in... He's doing what he has to because 'he has the right to and he should...".

[Unregistered]

Why does the Town Meeting Moderator have that kind of authority? How does appointing the FinCom relate to moderating the Town Meeting?

Per the Walpole Town Charter, the Finance Committee is actually a Committee of Town Meeting, established as an "advisory committee for town meeting on all subjects."

[Unregistered]

Jon Rockwood talks of change. The voters may want change also.
Some feel he has been in office to long. He didn't have an opponent in the spring yet many people "blanked" him voting for no one.

[Unregistered]

He has managed to draw all kinds of attention to himself, the remaining members of the committee and whomever he appoints.

[Unregistered]

I can see the importance of having a Finance Committee. However could it be 2 members from each
precinct and could they be elected by their precinct? Can we change the charter? I would rather my
neighborhood pick who will represent my precinct on the Fin Com then one individual from another
part of Walpole.

[Unregistered]

I can see the importance of having a Finance Committee. However could it be 2 members from each
precinct and could they be elected by their precinct? Can we change the charter? I would rather my
neighborhood pick who will represent my precinct on the Fin Com then one individual from another
part of Walpole.

In some towns, the Finance Commitee is elected. I think that is something that Walpole should serioulsy consider rather than having one person make the decision. An election would prevent members from serving for such ridiculous lengths of time like 20 years.

There should also be some standards set for minimum attendance.

[Unregistered]

Jon Rockwood talks of change. The voters may want change also.
Some feel he has been in office to long. He didn't have an opponent in the spring yet many people "blanked" him voting for no one.

Many people just don't vote at all for unopposed candidates. Look at the election results. Yes, Rockwood had a lot of blanks, but actually fewer blanks (by alot) than the other unopposed candidates, such as Kevin Muti, Clem Boragine and Joanne Damish to name a few. Are they in trouble next year too? No. Rockwood also had the most overall votes, by a significant margin. This means that many people who "blanked" other unopposed candidates did actually vote for Rockwood.

http://walpole-ma.gov/Elections/June2010/Summary060510.pdf

I'm not saying he shouldn't have an opponent next year, but the fact that people "blanked" him doesn't show a lack of support: it's just what some people do.

[Unregistered]

I can see the importance of having a Finance Committee. However could it be 2 members from each
precinct and could they be elected by their precinct? Can we change the charter? I would rather my
neighborhood pick who will represent my precinct on the Fin Com then one individual from another
part of Walpole.

While any charter change is cumbersome , by design, as it should be since it is somewhat akin to our local constitution the idea is meritorious.I would suggest a charter review and would further suggest that the fin com makeup be 1 person per precinct ( 8 ) and 5 at large ( lowers the number from an almost never seen 15 to 13 members ).
There ought not exist such appointing power placed in any 1 person's hand...way too dangerous

[Unregistered]

While any charter change is cumbersome , by design, as it should be since it is somewhat akin to our local constitution the idea is meritorious.I would suggest a charter review and would further suggest that the fin com makeup be 1 person per precinct ( 8 ) and 5 at large ( lowers the number from an almost never seen 15 to 13 members ).
There ought not exist such appointing power placed in any 1 person's hand...way too dangerous

Now you're thinking. A 9 member committee would be more than adequate. One member from each precinct and one member at large to keep it balanced geographically. That's if you can find anyone to serve on this committee after what the Moderator did.

[Unregistered]

this process is so cloaked in secrecy that it is high time for a change.... no one knows who is being considered or what their qualifications are until we see the white smoke rise from town hall.....i am sure that many competent people have not been chosen because they do not have the same political philosophy of whomever the Authority du jour and their entourage is

this board is too important for one person to make all the appointments alone and for the board to operate without any media coverage

there has to be some guidelines set like term limits and attendance and quality participation.... those who cannot meet their obligantions should have enough decency to resign

if someone has been on there for more than two terms, then they have jumped the shark. it really is time for them to move on

really would be nice to have an elected FinCom so that everyone has a say...so that the electorate can set their own term limits by not re-electing members who don't pull their weight

[Unregistered]

I can see the importance of having a Finance Committee. However could it be 2 members from each
precinct and could they be elected by their precinct? Can we change the charter? I would rather my
neighborhood pick who will represent my precinct on the Fin Com then one individual from another
part of Walpole.

Some interesting statistics for you. 55% of what is left of the finance committee comes ftom one area of town. Four are from precinct 8 and one is from precinct 7. Not much diversity on this committee and lopsided representation from one part of town. I have to agree with you. The charter should be changed or something has to be done.

[Dutch]

Some interesting statistics for you. 55% of what is left of the finance committee comes ftom one area of town. Four are from precinct 8 and one is from precinct 7. Not much diversity on this committee and lopsided representation from one part of town. I have to agree with you. The charter should be changed or something has to be done.

While there is some merit to having 1 member per precinct, because this is a volunteer committee, we not only need interested individuals, but those that have qualifications and/or experience in the finance arena.

> Assuming only 10 members remain following the dismissal of 5, not sure how the 55% number noted above is arrived at (this most likely rules me out as a candidate)..

While I do find the move interesting, will reserve judgement until the 'replacements' are named and we can assess their background / skill sets.

[Unregistered]

While it is named the finance committee it really should be called the Town Meeting Advisory Committee as it often becomes the best researched group on matters beyond finance such as zoning .By charter it is advisory to the town meeting , appointed by the moderator. The politics of appointments can and should be eliminated through a charter change requiring them to be elected.

[Unregistered]

A citizen's petition should be filed to consider electing the Finance Committee. That way we can all see who the candidates are, what their backgrounds are, and decide for ourselves. No more letting one person pick and choose alone whom he or she wants on the committee for reasons that are never publicly explained. Under the current system, we have no way of knowing who has applied and if the Moderator has ever called them to discuss their interest.

What the moderator has done is cast doubt on his credibility and that of whoemever is left on the committee. If he wanted change, he got it. He managed to change the opinion that people had of him.

[The Raven]

What I am trying to figure out here is why their is such an uproar over this?

Is Finance Committee a life time appointment? NO

Does the TM have the power to decide the make-up of the committee? YES

It seems that people think they have a "right" to be reappointed to a committee when that right does not exist! Why shouldn't the Town Moderator be able to appoint five new faces to the Finance Committee? Why should current Fin Comm members have more rights than their neighbors who aren't on Fin Comm?

The last I checked the Fin Comm didn't exactly do a bang up job on the police override or on the Siemens articles. In both cases, they clearly did not have the pulse of the town.[/QUOTE]

If he has the power to place members on that committee, and has in fact re-appointed several of those that weren't appointed this time around, then what is all the fuss about?? Trying to get everyone's blood boiling about actions by someone who in reality is just doing his job (and for crappy "pay" too). Rockwood is a straight-shooter and levelheaded. I think he's got guts to do it. Good for him. Everyone wants all decisions in town to be made by committee. Lets see what comes out of this.

I hear pitchforks rattling in the distance...are you getting ready to roast someone, or just prepping up for a hale-baling party? (Not a bad idea, actually).

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_69eUcYOc_QI/SXH40UYBesI/AAAAAAAAHc4/NQCZEQZWY5g/s400/raven.jpg

The Raven

[Unregistered]

You know what, Raven? You are referencing "pitchforks" again just as those who supported the power plant always characterized the power plant opponents as "pitchfork" bearers. We get it. Get back into your birdnest and stay there. By the way, do you know that in the 1700s, Walpole paid 10 pounds English sterling for the head of a raven? Study history, my dear Raven.

[Unregistered]

What the heck is a "hale-baling party"?

[Unregistered]

Perhaps "the raven" should make a nest in a meeting to learn what is going on. The vast majority of the public at meetings regarding biotech were opposed to the article. Well informed comments are useful, your comments are not well informed.

[Unregistered]

Jeez Raven. You sure do not seem to have the "pulse" of the town yourself. "Pitchforks" really says it all. Those who dissent should be branded as trouble makers. Those who dare disagree should be ridiculed. Those common pitchfork weilding peasants have some nerve questioning the process.

Those "pitchfork" weilding residents saved us from yet another pile of crap. I guess you were one of the folks who "needed more info" and wanted to "let the process work".

Raven, you are way off base.

[Unregistered]

Raven, I got one for you. Ask yourself why Rockwood keeps reappointing people who have been on the committee since Reagan and Bush Senior were president if the position isn't a lifetime appointment for some.

Raven, did you go to any Finance Committee meetings? I'm betting no.I guess you just prefer gossip as your source of information.

Fly Away Raven, Fly Away and don't let the pitchforks cross your flight path.

Your feathered friend, The Wise Owl

[Unregistered]

The solution is simple: if you don't like what the Town Moderator does, then vote someone else in next June. That'll happen faster than any charter change.
Ignorance of how appointments are made does not mean there's a "cloak of secrecy". If you want to know how town government functions, pay attention. The information is there, you just have to read it.
I don't always agree with the FinComm, but these 5 people are good people and have a deep knowledge of how town financing works. It's the town meeting that sets the town budget. so the FinComm can advise, but they don't get the last word.
And personally, I think the Town Moderator lacks political smarts and diplomacy....big mistake and it'll hurt his re-election chances and the causes he thinks he's helping.

[The Raven]

You know what, Raven? You are referencing "pitchforks" again just as those who supported the power plant always characterized the power plant opponents as "pitchfork" bearers. We get it. Get back into your birdnest and stay there. By the way, do you know that in the 1700s, Walpole paid 10 pounds English sterling for the head of a raven? Study history, my dear Raven.

Never knew that about the head of a raven...but as I said before, I am actually a crow, so don't get any ideas, ok? |

TR.

[The Raven]

What the heck is a "hale-baling party"?

Obviously it has to do with hay, and of course, as with any walpole related activity, a little booze is involved :)

TR

[Unregistered]

There comes a time when the facts have to be put on the table by anyone who will dare to do so because lthe local media outlets have largely remained silent on this issue. There was nothing gutsy about what the Town Moderator did. I would use a different word.

First, to show such little regard for five people who have dedicated so much time on a committee by sending them a goodbye letter that offerred little in the way of explanation shows a supreme lack of political acumen

Second, to say that no appointment is a lifetime appointment when he has consistently reappointed members who have been there since the 1980s and early 1990s strains credulity

Third, to defend members who don't live here or barely attend shows an incredible double standard since he values their participation while removing those who physically live in Walpole and go to the meetings

Fourth, to say that he wants new blood strains credulity as well because of point number two above

This isn't about new blood. This is about new votes, New votes to implement the agenda of the Board of Selectmen. Neither some selectmen nor the moderator understand that putting like minds on the every board will not result in the outcome they want. It will galvanize residents even more to right a wrong and to find a candidate to run for Moderator next year.

[Tom]

Walpole citizens, ca. 1940's
http://www.westboylston.com/Pages/WBoylstonMA_AdminBlog/I0272F677.0/rockwell.jpg

Walpole citizens, ca. 2010
http://entimg.msn.com/i/gal/SimpsonsMovie/S-008.jpg
***************

The original submitted by the Raven 7/27 was deleted accidentally by tg -- tg

[Unregistered]

Walpole citizens, ca. 1940's
http://www.westboylston.com/Pages/WBoylstonMA_AdminBlog/I0272F677.0/rockwell.jpg

Walpole citizens, ca. 2010
http://entimg.msn.com/i/gal/SimpsonsMovie/S-008.jpg
***************

The original submitted by the Raven 7/27 was deleted accidentally by tg -- tg

Raven, since you can't attack the truth, you have decided to attack the messengers. Don't fly too close, you might singe your feathers. It is the conduct of the town officials you should be concerned with. Are they birds of a feather?

[Unregistered]

Walpole citizens, ca. 1940's
http://www.westboylston.com/Pages/WBoylstonMA_AdminBlog/I0272F677.0/rockwell.jpg

Walpole citizens, ca. 2010
http://entimg.msn.com/i/gal/SimpsonsMovie/S-008.jpg
***************

The original submitted by the Raven 7/27 was deleted accidentally by tg -- tg

its amazing how two simple pictures can say so much. I don;t agree with all of Raven's methods, but some Walpole folks do come across as an angry mob at times, ready to roast the next power plant or biotech idea. I sincerely miss the old walpole. this is almost a classic editorial cartoon...

[Unregistered]

Now we've stooped to demonizing people who oppose dirty business by posting silly cartoons? Interesting tactics.

Next on the agenda, labeling people racists for any given purpose.

[Unregistered]

Seriously, this idea being floated about an elected FinComm has to be the dumbest idea ever. While I respect those who enter the political arena, they have to get their brains out of Town Hall for five minutes and realize how many potential quality, talented, productive FinComm members they would be excluding by making this an elected post.

Tinkering with the process because you don't like one outcome can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. Ask the state legislators who tried to "protect" the US Senate seats for Democrats by twice changing the rules, only to open the door for Scott Brown.

FinComm members should be appointed based on credentials, not who has the most lawn signs or newspaper ads. The one way to ensure a less-qualified board is to politicize it.

Keep this advisory committee appointed. If you don't like the appointees, run for moderator and choose your own members.

I do believe this committee needed a shakeup, especially based on it's mishandling of the police station and Siemens issues this spring, so I'm keeping an open mind on the whole replacement issue until I see the five new members. If they are truly qualified to serve on a FinComm, then this is merely a sour grapes campaign by those replaced and their sympathizers.

[Unregistered]

"its amazing how two simple pictures can say so much. I don;t agree with all of Raven's methods, but some Walpole folks do come across as an angry mob at times, ready to roast the next power plant or biotech idea. I sincerely miss the old walpole. this is almost a classic editorial cartoon..."

I disagree, I don't miss the old Walpole because we are paying dearly for what was done in the Old Walpole.
Sure, it was a nice friendly town, where everyone knew each other. People helping and caring for each other, but I can say that about just about any own. I grew up in the city of Boston, in fact I lived in Roxbury until I was 12. It was no different from Walpole, neighbors cared about each other, went on picnics, raised their kids and yes, even diciplined them. Kids went to school, did well and made a better life, isn't that the Old Walpole too?
Walpole made many mistakes, just like anywhere else. Allowing businesses to flourish and people to work, now isn't that part of the American dream?
The powerplant and biotech were, and still are bad ideas. It doesn't improve the quality of life. Did junkyards and scrap yards improve the quality of life? Did Bird Machine improve the quality of life? It did provide jobs, but now we are left with another legacy of polluted land, that's not quality.
The Old Walpole is the past and there are many good memories. But the New Walpole should provide a better quality of life for everyone. Jobs and a clean environment are signs of the New Walpole.

[Unregistered]

Seriously, this idea being floated about an elected FinComm has to be the dumbest idea ever. While I respect those who enter the political arena, they have to get their brains out of Town Hall for five minutes and realize how many potential quality, talented, productive FinComm members they would be excluding by making this an elected post.

Tinkering with the process because you don't like one outcome can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. Ask the state legislators who tried to "protect" the US Senate seats for Democrats by twice changing the rules, only to open the door for Scott Brown.

FinComm members should be appointed based on credentials, not who has the most lawn signs or newspaper ads. The one way to ensure a less-qualified board is to politicize it.

Keep this advisory committee appointed. If you don't like the appointees, run for moderator and choose your own members.

I do believe this committee needed a shakeup, especially based on it's mishandling of the police station and Siemens issues this spring, so I'm keeping an open mind on the whole replacement issue until I see the five new members. If they are truly qualified to serve on a FinComm, then this is merely a sour grapes campaign by those replaced and their sympathizers.

Many towns have an elected FinCom. So your sour grapes theory is silly. If anyone mishandled the Siemens issue, it was the board of selectmen. Allowing commecial uses on residential land was just plain ridiculous.

[Unregistered]

The Moderator's decision has cast a spotlight on a process which is so ripe for change because it excludes public scrutiny and particpation. His decision so lacked in fairness and so exemplified a double standard that it requires a long overdue change of the Moderator and the process. Those who want to leep the committee appointed subscribe to the current method of the "old" way of doing business. No one knows who has applied. No one knows who has been interviewed. No one knows the qualifications of the person. No one knows a thing until the announcement has been made. What this has created is a committee of people who have been on there since some local media personalities were born, no shows, members from another town, campaign donors, and five people from one area of town.

Those who want this type of committee to stay intact and this process to go continue are those who want a weak finance committee that can be easily manipulated. They are afraid of losing their power and grip on town government or losing their ability to have their way with boards because of their pedigree.

Let the sunshine in my friends. Let it shine. Let's stick to the issue at hand instead of cartoons.

[Unregistered]

Seriously, this idea being floated about an elected FinComm has to be the dumbest idea ever. While I respect those who enter the political arena, they have to get their brains out of Town Hall for five minutes and realize how many potential quality, talented, productive FinComm members they would be excluding by making this an elected post.

Tinkering with the process because you don't like one outcome can sometimes lead to unintended consequences. Ask the state legislators who tried to "protect" the US Senate seats for Democrats by twice changing the rules, only to open the door for Scott Brown.

FinComm members should be appointed based on credentials, not who has the most lawn signs or newspaper ads. The one way to ensure a less-qualified board is to politicize it.

Keep this advisory committee appointed. If you don't like the appointees, run for moderator and choose your own members.

I do believe this committee needed a shakeup, especially based on it's mishandling of the police station and Siemens issues this spring, so I'm keeping an open mind on the whole replacement issue until I see the five new members. If they are truly qualified to serve on a FinComm, then this is merely a sour grapes campaign by those replaced and their sympathizers.

Wow. Wow. Wow. The voice and vote of the people are the American Way. You are actually opening the doors wide open by supporting an elected process because then anyone can run for office rather than be at the mercy of the political whim of the appointing authority and his/her advsiors. The existing process is exclusionary. Maybe you prefer a monarchy? I do hope that someone steps up to the plate and files a citizens petition to get the discussion going.

[unregistered]

Why don't we make the best of both worlds? First I feel the town would be better off with a member from each precinct. Secondly the quality of the membership if chosen by the moderator will be better. Therefore change the charter to mandate how and where new members are selected.

[Unregistered]

Why don't we make the best of both worlds? First I feel the town would be better off with a member from each precinct. Secondly the quality of the membership if chosen by the moderator will be better. Therefore change the charter to mandate how and where new members are selected.

And what if there is a precinct (or two) from which nobody is interested in sitting on the committee? Or the only interested people are woefully unqualified? Even in an election type scenario (which won't happen) we would have to elect someone from each precinct regardless of their qualifications?

[Unregistered]

How about this - we have an elected Fin Com. If after the election there is a precinct where no one ran, or was written in, then, and only then, the Town Moderator may make an appointment. But there needs to be some rules!
- Members must attend at least half the meetings every year.
- Members must reside in the Town of Walpole.

[Unregistered]

And what if there is a precinct (or two) from which nobody is interested in sitting on the committee? Or the only interested people are woefully unqualified? Even in an election type scenario (which won't happen) we would have to elect someone from each precinct regardless of their qualifications?

You make a good point here.

Perhaps what we would have to do is have people run all as "At-large" candidates to avoid this happening.

Then again, if we're going to have a discussion about electing the Fin Comm, why not have a much larger discussion about our entire form of government?

The Town of Franklin, for example, scrapped their Board of Selectmen, Town Meeting, and Town Moderator years ago.

In its place they have a (9) member Town Council who appoint all (11) members of their Finance Committee. How 'bout that?

Their Town Administrator also has greater appointment authority over more boards than that of the Town Council.

Particularly in Walpole, scrapping Town Meeting and adopting a Town Council would sure make for some competitive elections!

[Unregistered]

After reading this letter, I too would support a charter change to elect the Finance Committee. I am glad that the writer called for the resignation of the Moderator.The other two mentioned in the letter who don't go to meetings and don't live here should follow suit. It would be the decent thing to do.

http://www.wickedlocal.com/walpole/news/opinions/x109281211/Letter-Town-moderator-s-decision-was-not-nonpartisan

[Unregistered]

One of the remaining female members of the Fin Com has resigned (over two weeks ago) and we have heard nothing about it , why the silence? Are there more to come? Is this the day that Mr. Rockwood said he would name all the replacements , now at 6 ( and counting ?). Will he adopt an attendance requirement?Who will become the new chairperson?Will there be a residency requirement?Will he avoid any conflict by not appointing campain contributors?
Lots of stuff to look forward to.

[Unregistered]

The other two mentioned in the letter who don't go to meetings and don't live here should follow suit. It would be the decent thing to do.


I don't have an issue with much of the criticism of Moderator John Rockwood. He is an elected official and deserves to be scrutinized for his decisions. However, something needs to be said about one criticism that is being bandied about.

I am deeply angry with Rockwood's critics who have stooped so low as to use one of the finance committee members who supposedly does not live in Walpole, as a criticism of the current state of the Finance Committee. Without mentioning names of committee members here, I think it is dispicable to manipulate this man's personal life as part of the campaign to discredit Mr. Rockwood. I am not a current or former member of this or any other committee, but I have known this man for decades and have seen all the good he has done for our town. The question is asked why is this person still on the finance committee when, it is claimed, he no longer lives in Walpole? This argument is a red herring. As many people know, including I would imagine the loudest critics of Mr. Rockwood, the truth is this person is temporarily staying, residing if you will, in an adjacent town at an assisted living facility to care for his very ill wife. Wouldn't any caring spouse do the same?? However, a five minute search on town websites shows that he still owns his home in Walpole { http://data.visionappraisal.com/WalpoleMA/search.asp }, and is still an elected member of our town meeting. {http://walpole-ma.gov/AllOffices.pdf}

Obviously, he still maintains close and legal ties to the town. Furthermore, based on personal observation at the Fisher School in June, I saw him vote in the Walpole election. Could he vote here if he wasn't a resident of the town for crying out loud? He is always at Adams Farm. So, due to all this recent hue and cry, I did look at the town charter. The only formal requirement that I could find for appointment to FinCom per our Charter is to be a "legal voter." So, if he owns a home here (and pays taxes), is registered to vote here, and is an elected official in Walpole, it would appear he is a "legal voter." So, if you ask me, he is still eligible to serve on the finance committee. It looks like John has read the charter, and took it into consideration in keeping this fine man on the Committee.

Now, the fact that some people in Walpole would even raise this issue when this person is doing such an honorable and noble thing for a sick spouse is beneath contempt. This person has done too much to help this community (ask our public safety officials) to be manipulated and maligned in this way, especially where the reason he is temporarily out of town is because he is caring for his beloved wife. Again, the loudest critics are people who used to be on the same committee with this man! How could they turn on him like this? They are putting him through this unwarranted scrutiny just to attack Rockwood. What would they have Rockwood do, get rid of him? "Sorry sir, although you are still a legal voter, a revered member of our community and the caretaker of one of our town's dearest assets, the fact that you are providing comfort and care to your ailing wife in another town leads me to the conclusion that your wisdom and decades of devotion to this town are no longer needed." If that had happened, then we would have had something to be up in arms about. We don't want to loose this person.

Look, the former FinCom members who first floated this reprehensible nonsense should be deeply ashamed of themselves. {And it's not all five, just one or two.} They should also know it seriously undermines all of their other criticisms of Jon Rockwood. To the poster quoted above, do you still insist this person who you claim doesn't "live" in Walpole should still resign? I would hope not, but I'll wait for your answer.

At first, I was very surprised by the Moderator's actions. There are some legitimate concerns, although I am starting to hear more support for this shakeup. Now that I see and understand the unfair tactics the ousted members are resorting to, I am beginning to see the light.

[Unregistered]

I agree with poster #53. This pack of a few disgruntled, embarassed individuals is stooping to the lowest of the low in criticizing the FinComm member caring for his sick wife. Truth is, anyone who would use these tactics is not fit to serve on FinComm and should be removed. Oh, that, and remember that karma is a b**ch!

[Unregistered]

Mr. Rockwood has shot himself in his political foot. This act of not re-appointing FinCom members is legal but, shows poor planning on his part. Getting rid of these people is one thing, not having anyone ready to step into their shoes is another. Any good manager would have had repalacements ready to go, and move forward. I am not a FinCom member, never was, never will be. I think that the manner in which this was handled was very poor and very disrespectful to these fine members. It takes a lot of personal time, planning, research and dedication to serve on any town board. I think that this could have, and should have, been handled in a more professional way. As an attorney, and Harvard grad, he should have been more tactful. I am disappointed but in the same hand, I wish him well and hope that good solid decisions will continue to be made. Godspeed, Mr. Rockwood.

[Unregistered]

Mr. Rockwood has shot himself in his political foot. This act of not re-appointing FinCom members is legal but, shows poor planning on his part. Getting rid of these people is one thing, not having anyone ready to step into their shoes is another. Any good manager would have had repalacements ready to go, and move forward. I am not a FinCom member, never was, never will be. I think that the manner in which this was handled was very poor and very disrespectful to these fine members. It takes a lot of personal time, planning, research and dedication to serve on any town board. I think that this could have, and should have, been handled in a more professional way. As an attorney, and Harvard grad, he should have been more tactful. I am disappointed but in the same hand, I wish him well and hope that good solid decisions will continue to be made. Godspeed, Mr. Rockwood.

How would you know he has no replacements yet???....Im sure he was ready for all this backlash. These are not lifetime appointments. Change is good, sometimes it hurts.

[Unregistered]

When is the next Finance Committee meeting?

[The Raven]

I don't have an issue with much of the criticism of Moderator John Rockwood. He is an elected official and deserves to be scrutinized for his decisions. However, something needs to be said about one criticism that is being bandied about.

I am deeply angry with Rockwood's critics who have stooped so low as to use one of the finance committee members who supposedly does not live in Walpole, as a criticism of the current state of the Finance Committee. Without mentioning names of committee members here, I think it is dispicable to manipulate this man's personal life as part of the campaign to discredit Mr. Rockwood. I am not a current or former member of this or any other committee, but I have known this man for decades and have seen all the good he has done for our town. The question is asked why is this person still on the finance committee when, it is claimed, he no longer lives in Walpole? This argument is a red herring. As many people know, including I would imagine the loudest critics of Mr. Rockwood, the truth is this person is temporarily staying, residing if you will, in an adjacent town at an assisted living facility to care for his very ill wife. Wouldn't any caring spouse do the same?? However, a five minute search on town websites shows that he still owns his home in Walpole { http://data.visionappraisal.com/WalpoleMA/search.asp }, and is still an elected member of our town meeting. {http://walpole-ma.gov/AllOffices.pdf}

Obviously, he still maintains close and legal ties to the town. Furthermore, based on personal observation at the Fisher School in June, I saw him vote in the Walpole election. Could he vote here if he wasn't a resident of the town for crying out loud? He is always at Adams Farm. So, due to all this recent hue and cry, I did look at the town charter. The only formal requirement that I could find for appointment to FinCom per our Charter is to be a "legal voter." So, if he owns a home here (and pays taxes), is registered to vote here, and is an elected official in Walpole, it would appear he is a "legal voter." So, if you ask me, he is still eligible to serve on the finance committee. It looks like John has read the charter, and took it into consideration in keeping this fine man on the Committee.

Now, the fact that some people in Walpole would even raise this issue when this person is doing such an honorable and noble thing for a sick spouse is beneath contempt. This person has done too much to help this community (ask our public safety officials) to be manipulated and maligned in this way, especially where the reason he is temporarily out of town is because he is caring for his beloved wife. Again, the loudest critics are people who used to be on the same committee with this man! How could they turn on him like this? They are putting him through this unwarranted scrutiny just to attack Rockwood. What would they have Rockwood do, get rid of him? "Sorry sir, although you are still a legal voter, a revered member of our community and the caretaker of one of our town's dearest assets, the fact that you are providing comfort and care to your ailing wife in another town leads me to the conclusion that your wisdom and decades of devotion to this town are no longer needed." If that had happened, then we would have had something to be up in arms about. We don't want to loose this person.

Look, the former FinCom members who first floated this reprehensible nonsense should be deeply ashamed of themselves. {And it's not all five, just one or two.} They should also know it seriously undermines all of their other criticisms of Jon Rockwood. To the poster quoted above, do you still insist this person who you claim doesn't "live" in Walpole should still resign? I would hope not, but I'll wait for your answer.

At first, I was very surprised by the Moderator's actions. There are some legitimate concerns, although I am starting to hear more support for this shakeup. Now that I see and understand the unfair tactics the ousted members are resorting to, I am beginning to see the light.

No rational person would buy in to the trashing your friend has received for taking care of his wife. NO ONE...except a few disgruntled pitchforkers.

Mr. Rockwood did the right thing. Its called a "purge".


http://www.enigmagraphics.com/images/illustrations/crow.gif

[Unregistered]

No rational person would buy in to the trashing your friend has received for taking care of his wife. NO ONE...except a few disgruntled pitchforkers.

Mr. Rockwood did the right thing. Its called a "purge".


http://www.enigmagraphics.com/images/illustrations/crow.gif

Tom-
I am stunned at how you are allowing only one view point to be posted. I am sick of the "pitchforkers" comments and riducule that you let fly against residents who choose to take part in the process, while never allowing a post in response. Then when the old townie insiders (like the Raven) dare to be questioned on FACTS, or be called on their arbitrary standards, those posts never see the light of day. Yet the personal attacks and ridicule of those who have done a great thing by stopping power plants, sludge, trash and propane is apparantly a-OK.

I have never seen you censor a subject in the way you are the FinCom appointment issue.

Tell me Raven... WHAT DID THE "PITCHFORKERS" STOP THAT YOU THOUGHT SHOULD BE HERE????? SUBSTANCE OVER RIDICULE!!!! WHAT DID THEY STOP!!!!!!!????????!!!!!!!

In response to this post and the one just below:
The poster is correct: I haven't 'censored' any other thread anywhere near as often.
The most frequent reasons for deletions here are the usual ones for walpolenews:
First, the assumption of conspiracies for which I have no evidence. An anonymous post that targets named individuals is not evidence. Repeat anonymous posts even less so. This thread is unique in that both sides -- if I may oversimplify -- are anonymously alleging webs of conspiracy.
Second, the assume-the-worst mindset. Anonymous posters, who may or not be sincere, are maintaining they know what's going on in others' minds. The benefit of the doubt does not go to the anonymous would-be accuser.
Third, civility. Posts that mainly insult other posters, advise people to leave town or issue threats and warnings, however veiled, do not make it. On this thread, Ralph Knobel's residency arose first as a consideration against Rockwood's nomination philosophy. More recently, repeat attempts to post appear aimed personally at Mr. Knobel. To that would-be poster or posters, please stop trying.

On the post below, I deleted the post because I was wrong to allow it without some editing. The big problem was that the poster listed Tom Bowen as a supporter of the Robbins Road police station. (I was at Town Meeting and quoted Mr. Bowen's strong statement against the proposal.) I was unaware of my mistake until a another poster quickly noted the error and gave appropriate detail. But after that correcting post was posted, an attempt came in that recognized the correction but still took a shot at Bowen anyhow. The original had to go before it caused or was used to create more confusion. -- tg

[Unregistered]

I agree with poster #53. This pack of a few disgruntled, embarassed individuals is stooping to the lowest of the low in criticizing the FinComm member caring for his sick wife. Truth is, anyone who would use these tactics is not fit to serve on FinComm and should be removed. Oh, that, and remember that karma is a b**ch!

TG: This post is a response to a previous posting that no longer appears to be on the message board. Why is it that anything that calls out Joanne Muti doesn't make it on but everyone else can be savaged two ways to Sunday???

[Unregistered]

Here's another consideration for the Finance Committee and that is to split up the appointment process. Let the Moderator appoint 5 people, the Selectmen appoint 5 people, and the Town Administrator appoint 5 people. It would result in a more open, balanced, and inclusive process. There is way too much power concentrated in the hands of one person.

[Unregistered]

"Why is it that anything that calls out Joanne Muti doesn't make it on but everyone else can be savaged two ways to Sunday???"
In my opinion Joanne Muti gets toasted on a regular basis, have you been reading the Walpole Times, do you look at this web site?
Joanne gets toasted because she does her research and is well prepared for any meeting that she attends.
She hasn't stopped any clean business from coming to town. I think that the real problem is that Joanne is honest, doesn't have her own agenda, and does what in her opinion, is in the best the interest of the town. If anything, Joanne is a fair person. The reality is that John Rockwood did her a favor by not re-appointing her to FinCom she doesn't have to take the heat anymore. She worked tirelessly for this town for 20 years. She took criticizm with her head held high. This town could use a few more people with her level of intelligence and tenacity. I personaly will miss her. No one even extended the kindness, to thank her for what she has done for this town.
So I will; Thank you Joanne for all that you have done and you will be missed.

[Unregistered]

Here's another consideration for the Finance Committee and that is to split up the appointment process. Let the Moderator appoint 5 people, the Selectmen appoint 5 people, and the Town Administrator appoint 5 people. It would result in a more open, balanced, and inclusive process. There is way too much power concentrated in the hands of one person.

Why is everyone so hung up that Mr. Rockwood had too much power?I the electorate feels that Mr. Rockwood has not acted in their best interest, then he will only have the opprotunity to replace 5 members before the office is up for its annual election. Mr. Rockwood (or whomever is sitting in the Town Moderator Seat) is held accountable evey year, if your are unhappy for with the job he had done in the position, vote for another candidate.

As for the member who resigned. If their reason for resignation was that they disagreed with Mr. Rockwood putting 5 new members on the board at once, giving him that sixth seat seems like a pretty silly way to make a stand.

[Unregistered]

"Why is it that anything that calls out Joanne Muti doesn't make it on but everyone else can be savaged two ways to Sunday???"
In my opinion Joanne Muti gets toasted on a regular basis, have you been reading the Walpole Times, do you look at this web site?
Joanne gets toasted because she does her research and is well prepared for any meeting that she attends.
She hasn't stopped any clean business from coming to town. I think that the real problem is that Joanne is honest, doesn't have her own agenda, and does what in her opinion, is in the best the interest of the town. If anything, Joanne is a fair person. The reality is that John Rockwood did her a favor by not re-appointing her to FinCom she doesn't have to take the heat anymore. She worked tirelessly for this town for 20 years. She took criticizm with her head held high. This town could use a few more people with her level of intelligence and tenacity. I personaly will miss her. No one even extended the kindness, to thank her for what she has done for this town.
So I will; Thank you Joanne for all that you have done and you will be missed.

Well said! ... and I will second that! The reason you cannot "call out Joanne Muti", is because you very likely have your facts wrong, or have no facts at all. This poster hit the nail on the head! Joanne does her homework, is always prepared, and has NO agenda other than doing the right thing for Walpole. I have sat and listened to many a debate that was completely devoid of the facts until Joanne put her cards on the table. We need more folks like her in town government. People who take the time to know the issues and don't operate on here-say and scuttlebutt. She is open minded, attentive, uneningly fair in her approach to every issue.

Joanne- thank you from the bottom of my heart. You have kept Walpole clean. You have treated every neighborhood equitably. You have followed the Golden Rule and "treated all others as you would yourself"! Imagine... without you we would all be living with an MWRA Sludge Facility, a Propane Tank Farm, a Regional Trash Transfer Station, and a massive power plant! Walpole wouldn't be such a great place to live. You alone shouldered the burden of organizing, informing, and rallying residents. Except for Cliff Snuffer, not a single elected official stepped forward, got involved, and fought with residents. Without you, there never would have been a fight, let alone success after success for the people.

Thanks so very much. The water we drink, and the home values that exceed surrounding towns are your legacy!

[Unregistered]

Why is everyone so hung up that Mr. Rockwood had too much power?I the electorate feels that Mr. Rockwood has not acted in their best interest, then he will only have the opprotunity to replace 5 members before the office is up for its annual election. Mr. Rockwood (or whomever is sitting in the Town Moderator Seat) is held accountable evey year, if your are unhappy for with the job he had done in the position, vote for another candidate.

As for the member who resigned. If their reason for resignation was that they disagreed with Mr. Rockwood putting 5 new members on the board at once, giving him that sixth seat seems like a pretty silly way to make a stand.

It would be nice if Mr. Rockwood were open and transparent enough to let people have a clue what is going on. But I guess this government of ours is all one big secret.

[The Raven]

Tom-
I am stunned at how you are allowing only one view point to be posted. I am sick of the "pitchforkers" comments and riducule that you let fly against residents who choose to take part in the process, while never allowing a post in response. Then when the old townie insiders (like the Raven) dare to be questioned on FACTS, or be called on their arbitrary standards, those posts never see the light of day. Yet the personal attacks and ridicule of those who have done a great thing by stopping power plants, sludge, trash and propane is apparantly a-OK.

I have never seen you censor a subject in the way you are the FinCom appointment issue.

Tell me Raven... WHAT DID THE "PITCHFORKERS" STOP THAT YOU THOUGHT SHOULD BE HERE????? SUBSTANCE OVER RIDICULE!!!! WHAT DID THEY STOP!!!!!!!????????!!!!!!!

In response to this post and the one just below:
The poster is correct: I haven't 'censored' any other thread anywhere near as often.
The most frequent reasons for deletions here are the usual ones for walpolenews:
First, the assumption of conspiracies for which I have no evidence. An anonymous post that targets named individuals is not evidence. Repeat anonymous posts even less so. This thread is unique in that both sides -- if I may oversimplify -- are anonymously alleging webs of conspiracy.
Second, the assume-the-worst mindset. Anonymous posters, who may or not be sincere, are maintaining they know what's going on in others' minds. The benefit of the doubt does not go to the anonymous would-be accuser.
Third, civility. Posts that mainly insult other posters, advise people to leave town or issue threats and warnings, however veiled, do not make it. On this thread, Ralph Knobel's residency arose first as a consideration against Rockwood's nomination philosophy. More recently, repeat attempts to post appear aimed personally at Mr. Knobel. To that would-be poster or posters, please stop trying.

On the post below, I deleted the post because I was wrong to allow it without some editing. The big problem was that the poster listed Tom Bowen as a supporter of the Robbins Road police station. (I was at Town Meeting and quoted Mr. Bowen's strong statement against the proposal.) I was unaware of my mistake until a another poster quickly noted the error and gave appropriate detail. But after that correcting post was posted, an attempt came in that recognized the correction but still took a shot at Bowen anyhow. The original had to go before it caused or was used to create more confusion. -- tg

Tell me Raven... WHAT DID THE "PITCHFORKERS" STOP THAT YOU THOUGHT SHOULD BE HERE????? SUBSTANCE OVER RIDICULE!!!! WHAT DID THEY STOP!!!!!!!????????!!!!!!!

First, easy with the capital letter shrieking please. This is an example of why you have people who don't support you. Your delivery can be highly abrasive.

Secondly, I supported a power plant in Walpole. I support biotech facilities in Walpole. I am not going to get into a long drawn out back-n-forth with you on the reasons, because I know what the outcome will be.

Thirdly, though I may be a townie, I certainly don't consider myself an insider. Sorry to disappoint you on that one!


The Raven

[Unregistered]

Question for Raven. Would you support a power plant and biotech facility in your neighborhood? Just a simple yes or no answer will do.

[Unregistered]

Tell me Raven... WHAT DID THE "PITCHFORKERS" STOP THAT YOU THOUGHT SHOULD BE HERE????? SUBSTANCE OVER RIDICULE!!!! WHAT DID THEY STOP!!!!!!!????????!!!!!!!

First, easy with the capital letter shrieking please. This is an example of why you have people who don't support you. Your delivery can be highly abrasive.

Secondly, I supported a power plant in Walpole. I support biotech facilities in Walpole. I am not going to get into a long drawn out back-n-forth with you on the reasons, because I know what the outcome will be.

Thirdly, though I may be a townie, I certainly don't consider myself an insider. Sorry to disappoint you on that one!


The Raven

It's not shrieking, so stop being sexist. The question has been asked manny many times, and you have never answered. I am glad that "turning up the volume" worked. I appreciate the answer finally Raven. It is as I thought. You are entitled to your opinion.

One last question... do you live near Siemen's or the Walple Industrial Park? How about Adam's Farm?

[Unregistered]

Did you also support; sludge, regional trash transfer, million gallon propane farm too? Wow, I wouldn't be proud of that. A powerplant sited on a sole source aquifer and biotech level 3, anything for a buck and no foresight, you must be really proud of yourself. In other words, you support "any lawful use" regardless of what it does to the future health and value of our town. You seem to enjoy calling the people that do not agree with you "pitch forkers", hmm, that's interesting. I would have to call the people that support dirty businesses, "smokestack huggers".
So I guess that being a "townie" gives you some sense of priveledge. At least Cliff Snuffer and Joanne Muti did not stoop to name calling. If you disagreed with them, they respected your opinion. I am very disappointed in you and many others.

[Unregistered]

Well said! ... and I will second that! The reason you cannot "call out Joanne Muti", is because you very likely have your facts wrong, or have no facts at all. This poster hit the nail on the head! Joanne does her homework, is always prepared, and has NO agenda other than doing the right thing for Walpole. I have sat and listened to many a debate that was completely devoid of the facts until Joanne put her cards on the table. We need more folks like her in town government. People who take the time to know the issues and don't operate on here-say and scuttlebutt. She is open minded, attentive, uneningly fair in her approach to every issue.

Joanne- thank you from the bottom of my heart. You have kept Walpole clean. You have treated every neighborhood equitably. You have followed the Golden Rule and "treated all others as you would yourself"! Imagine... without you we would all be living with an MWRA Sludge Facility, a Propane Tank Farm, a Regional Trash Transfer Station, and a massive power plant! Walpole wouldn't be such a great place to live. You alone shouldered the burden of organizing, informing, and rallying residents. Except for Cliff Snuffer, not a single elected official stepped forward, got involved, and fought with residents. Without you, there never would have been a fight, let alone success after success for the people.

Thanks so very much. The water we drink, and the home values that exceed surrounding towns are your legacy!

Count me in! Ms. Muti has proven to be fair, well versed and dedicated to well being of Walpole. God Bless you Joanne for all the hard work you have given to this town. A big THANK YOU!!!

[Unregistered]

I wasn’t going to comment on Raven, as frankly most of his posts (and I am sure it is a man),
are quite, well, silly: Pictures of birds ,dim-witted cartoons, name calling… I picture an old curmudgeon who gets a ‘kick’ out of getting peoples goat,banging away at his keyboard into the wee hours.
But what really bothers me is that many think he represents the ‘townie’ mentality. I have lived here almost sixty years and don’t support any type of business that would alter this lovely town in negative way.
I am grateful for this board, it is a great place to get information and share ideas, but I would just all well support shutting it down when it turns to name calling and misinformation.
Thanks for listening.

[Unregistered]

My Dearest Raven,

You might have to rethink your "pitchforkers" comments. The Siemens biotech article was withdrawn by the Board of Selectmen. The Finance Committee had voted 8 to 5 in favor. This zoning article, which was written by Siemens for our bylaw, raised many questions and concerns. You can blame anyone you want, but the article was collapsing of its own weight because it would have allowed commercial uses on a rather large parcel of residential zoned land in a neighborhood.

There was hardly anyone in favor of this article at the well attended meetings and the public hearings.

The question isn't if biotech ahould be allowed. It's more a question of where and to what level it should be allowed. Nothing was "roasted" or "toasted" as you allege. After many discussions with all parties and boards, it was not meant to be.

You seem to have lost sight of the fact that we already have 500,000 square feet of biotech at Siemens. That's a whole lot of biotech going on. Surely there must be something else we can attract like retail or an office park? Why are we always drawn to risky businesses?

The selectmen did not have to withdraw the Siemens article but they did just minutes before Town Meeting.

Your beef is with the Selectmen instead of the Finance Committee and/or the "pitchforkers". They were out baling hay and having a brew during Town Meeting.

Warm Regards,

Harry Hawkeye
P.S. Your claws seems exceptionally sharp lately. Might want to fly over to the barbershop and have them trimmed.

[Unregistered]

Dear Smokestack Percher,
You've admitted to being a townie, so my question to you is; Why didn't "you townies" stop dirty businesses from coming to town in the first place? Smokestack Perchers allowed Goldies & Allied to be sited in an aquifer zone. All of you S.P.'s allowed the superfund site to be their in the first place. Let's not forget the sawmill that once stood in the town forest. All of the S.P.'s are responsible for the current blight in this town. The newcomers have been protecting this town from it's self. I've talked with many of you S.P.'s and it seems to me that they don't care what comes to town, as long as it brings some tax revenue. It also seems to me that the S.P.'s are looking for a free ride and don't want to pay taxes. Take a look around at the condition of the town, spotty zoning, no planning for an industrial/commercial campus. Just put businesses where ever some landowner owns a plot of land. You S.P.'s really did a poor job of being stewards of this town. I'm sorry that you are nauseated, but as I used to say, "if your skin is thin, you won't fit in". It's time to take the town from the S.P.'s and look toward a clean future.
Signed, 3rd Degree Harpie.

[Unregistered]

In the past so many minutes the flying monkeys disappeared along with some strange words from raven including reference to contamination of our air from surrounding towns that have allowed power plants to be built. It is a good thing that disappeared as I think it it is unfounded. I can't imagine which surrounding towns have allowed the building of power plants. In fact surrounding towns allied with Walpole against a power plant being built here.

[Unregistered]

Thank you, #72! That was beautifully said. Not only do the smokestack perchers want revenue at any cost, they resent any non-townie ever taking a leadership position in any capacity. Apparently, they get to decide what is best for Walpole and that means only any crummy business that promises to throw some dollars. We who have chosen to move here seem to be the ones looking at what's best for the town as a whole-present and future. The smokestack perchers also brought in the maximum security prison in the 1950s. I'm sure they thought that was a great idea since the factories were closing. I'm sure the mantra was, "We need the money! We need the jobs!" I'm as tired of them as you seem to be. BTW, I love the name smokestack perchers instead of townie. I always felt bad about maligning all townies with the name because many worked against the power plant along with us newcomers of 20 years. So, "smokestack perchers" it is!

[Unregistered]

The Moderator's public explanation for not reappointing 5 people isn't remotely believable and this is why. Using his own words:

Number One. "I made this decision after months of intense reflection, listening to the citizens of Walpole, personal observation over the past six years....."

Response: Which citizens and what observations? From speaking to Finance Committee members, he was there maybe once or twice over a period of many years.

Number Two: "As a very wise person once told me that turnover is generally a good thing in Committees like this one and it's not healthy for anyone to stay on indefinitely."

Response: Really? Really? There are members who have been on the Committee since at least 1985 and 1992 and late 1990s. Easy to verify this from the Annual Reports

Number Three: "Another reason for the change is to give other qualified people a chance to serve on the Committee. Two current members waited approximately four years before, through attrition, I could appoint them."

Response: The Moderator had the option to not reappoint members last year who had been on indefinitely or who had poor attendance. He could have given others the opportunity to serve. My question is where are all these people who have been waiting to serve? Today is August 5th. The terms expired over a month ago.

Number Four: "As I stated above, my decision was not based on the performance of one individual or one vote, or one event, so I did not single any one person out to be treated differently. As I decied to make a change, I knew the fairest way was to change all five members."

Response: To dismiss five people at once because the Moderator might not have not liked the politics of one or two people isn't fair to the other members that he dismissed. He threw the baby out with the bathwater.

[Unregistered]

In the past so many minutes the flying monkeys disappeared along with some strange words from raven including reference to contamination of our air from surrounding towns that have allowed power plants to be built. It is a good thing that disappeared as I think it it is unfounded. I can't imagine which surrounding towns have allowed the building of power plants. In fact surrounding towns allied with Walpole against a power plant being built here.

We are downwind of the Bellingham power plant, and most likely do get pollution from that plant.

[Unregistered]

I think that you know that "Smokestack Perchers" was Raven's name that he liked instead of Townies.
For those of you that didn't see the post that was removed, the Flying Monkeys, was a cartoon that Raven posted.
I think that Ravens simily was akin to the fact that he is a Raven, and watches over this town from on high.
Yes, I believe that Raven and I disagree on many points, but he is entitled to his opinion, as I am too.
We should just try to be respectful and civil to each other.
We can all look back and see poor decisions that were made, but we need to look forward and make decisions based on fact, not heresay, not someones current whim. Let's pull together and make Walpole once again the friendly town with no divisions as to neighborhood locations.

[Unregistered]

I think that you know that "Smokestack Perchers" was Raven's name that he liked instead of Townies.
For those of you that didn't see the post that was removed, the Flying Monkeys, was a cartoon that Raven posted.
I think that Ravens simily was akin to the fact that he is a Raven, and watches over this town from on high.
Yes, I believe that Raven and I disagree on many points, but he is entitled to his opinion, as I am too.
We should just try to be respectful and civil to each other.
We can all look back and see poor decisions that were made, but we need to look forward and make decisions based on fact, not heresay, not someones current whim. Let's pull together and make Walpole once again the friendly town with no divisions as to neighborhood locations.

Then maybe Raven would like to ask that his post with a Simpson photo of "pitchforkers" be taken down. I too agree that we are all entitled to our opinions, but I do not believe that we should ridicule and discourage others and their open participation in town government. The "pitchforkers" opinions are just as valid as Raven's. Perhaps more so, since they live near the sites in question, or would not support such developement in their own backyard.

[Unregistered]

Good Job Jon. not afraid to take action and hide behind a board like this site. change is good. no one is losing a life here or going to war. life will go on and before you know it the new members will be here and doing what they have to do.

[Unregistered]

Good Job Jon. not afraid to take action and hide behind a board like this site. change is good. no one is losing a life here or going to war. life will go on and before you know it the new members will be here and doing what they have to do.

...and just WHY was it a good job? Just curious what supports your statement.

[The Raven]

Then maybe Raven would like to ask that his post with a Simpson photo of "pitchforkers" be taken down. I too agree that we are all entitled to our opinions, but I do not believe that we should ridicule and discourage others and their open participation in town government. The "pitchforkers" opinions are just as valid as Raven's. Perhaps more so, since they live near the sites in question, or would not support such developement in their own backyard.

The post of mine that was removed was removed by me and me alone. I deleted it.

The simpsons photo stays...it passed Toms inspection.

Maybe if you folks had registered back in the early days you would have the power to remove your posts too. Too bad you didn't.

The past two weeks has had letters in the Times critical of what Jon Rockwood did. I consider those letters more harping about the sky is falling. As one poster said, no one died. Also, no one did anything illegal, immoral or unjust. Except to a small bunch who just can't face the fact that everyone doesn't agree with them (or their methods of delivery).

Too bad. Get a thick skin and live with it.

[Unregistered]

...and just WHY was it a good job? Just curious what supports your statement.

Because, change is good. people get stale and the longer someone is on a board or an elected position the more powerful they think they are.

[Unregistered]

The post of mine that was removed was removed by me and me alone. I deleted it.

The simpsons photo stays...it passed Toms inspection.

Maybe if you folks had registered back in the early days you would have the power to remove your posts too. Too bad you didn't.

The past two weeks has had letters in the Times critical of what Jon Rockwood did. I consider those letters more harping about the sky is falling. As one poster said, no one died. Also, no one did anything illegal, immoral or unjust. Except to a small bunch who just can't face the fact that everyone doesn't agree with them (or their methods of delivery).

Too bad. Get a thick skin and live with it.

How nice that those letter writers in the Times had the courage to sign their names. More than can be said for you Raven. Registered or not, your no better than anyone else on this board. Your just as "unknown".,, and your skin sure sounds just as thin. Get over it. Or get the courage of those letter writers you mock.

[The Raven]

hy I support Jon Rockwood and the decisions he makes....

(from his LinkedIn page on the internet)


Jon Rockwood’s Experience
Attorney
Cirace & Associates
(Law Practice industry)

January 2010 — Present (8 months)


Attorney
Gelerman, Buschmann & Jeter, P.C.
(Law Practice industry)

May 2005 — January 2010 (4 years 9 months)

Gelerman, Buschmann & Jeter is a general practice law firm located in Norwood, MA. We provide personal and high quality legal advice to municipalities, real estate developers, large and small corporations and other business entities, commercial and residental landlords, and private individuals with various legal needs. The practice also features all aspects of estate planning, guardianships and family law.

Attorney
Downing & Flynn
(Law Practice industry)

July 1998 — May 2005 (6 years 11 months)

Represented residential and commercial landlords, condominium associations, etc. in all forms of real estate and commercial litigation

Intelligence Research Analyst
National Security Agency, Ft. Meade, MD
(Defense & Space industry)

September 1983 — August 1992 (9 years )

I spent nine years at NSA as an intelligence research analyst and manager, then returned to Massachusetts to attend law school and raise our family in Walpole, MA where we currently reside.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Jon Rockwood’s Education
Suffolk University Law School
J. D. , Law , 1992 — 1995


Harvard University
B.A. , Psychology & Social Relations , 1978 — 1982


Activities and Societies: Football, Pi Eta Speakers Club

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Additional Information
Jon Rockwood’s Websites:
Walpole Town Meeting
Jon Rockwood’s Interests:
Politics, Youth Athletics, community service

Jon Rockwood’s Groups:
Miracles From Moody Foundation, Treasurer;
Walpole Housing Partnership, Chairman;
Walpole Town Moderator
Walpole Youth Football Coach

[Unregistered]

My Dearest Raven,

You might have to rethink your "pitchforkers" comments. The Siemens biotech article was withdrawn by the Board of Selectmen. The Finance Committee had voted 8 to 5 in favor. This zoning article, which was written by Siemens for our bylaw, raised many questions and concerns. You can blame anyone you want, but the article was collapsing of its own weight because it would have allowed commercial uses on a rather large parcel of residential zoned land in a neighborhood.

There was hardly anyone in favor of this article at the well attended meetings and the public hearings.

The question isn't if biotech ahould be allowed. It's more a question of where and to what level it should be allowed. Nothing was "roasted" or "toasted" as you allege. After many discussions with all parties and boards, it was not meant to be.

You seem to have lost sight of the fact that we already have 500,000 square feet of biotech at Siemens. That's a whole lot of biotech going on. Surely there must be something else we can attract like retail or an office park? Why are we always drawn to risky businesses?

The selectmen did not have to withdraw the Siemens article but they did just minutes before Town Meeting.

Your beef is with the Selectmen instead of the Finance Committee and/or the "pitchforkers". They were out baling hay and having a brew during Town Meeting.

Warm Regards,

Harry Hawkeye
P.S. Your claws seems exceptionally sharp lately. Might want to fly over to the barbershop and have them trimmed.

FinCom voted 8-5 in favor after they amended the article. BOS pulled the article because they didn't like the amended version.
Siemens lawyers wrote the by-law and it was approved by town counsel. This saved the town some legal fees.
All done within the rules. Same as what the moderator is doing.

[Unregistered]

I think it is funny, that Jon Rockwoods actions have caused such a stir.
He has caused a well organized group of people to show us all exactly who they are. Mostly all past Selectpeople. They have all sent letters to the paper and have been quoted picking on people who care for ill family members at the end of their life. I bet if you ask the other old Selectpeople they will say the ones that are so vocal about the legal non reappointment would agree that some or all of these letter writers have been the deadwood in the past on past boards, preventing any positive change. i have been around a LLLOOOONNNGGG time. I know its these people that chase good hard working VOLENTEERS from town service/government.
Do we really want those kind of people making " good, well educated, well researched decisions for our Walpole" When they have tossed fellow committee member out in the cold.
Pay attention everyone we now know how they are, who really wants to stop proggress
Surrounding towns have been very sucessful growing, changing, evolving and doing it with a combination of things
Maybe know we can get something done around here.
Good job Mr Rockwood
Please FINCOM, BOS,RTMs, CONCOM, Planningboard, W&S and EDC DO SOMETHING!!!!! Jon cleaned out the spiderwebs its time for Change and only you people can start it

[Unregistered]

Because, change is good. people get stale and the longer someone is on a board or an elected position the more powerful they think they are.

That seems like a pretty good assesment of Jon Rockwood to me.

[Unregistered]

I think it is funny, that Jon Rockwoods actions have caused such a stir.
He has caused a well organized group of people to show us all exactly who they are. Mostly all past Selectpeople. They have all sent letters to the paper and have been quoted picking on people who care for ill family members at the end of their life. I bet if you ask the other old Selectpeople they will say the ones that are so vocal about the legal non reappointment would agree that some or all of these letter writers have been the deadwood in the past on past boards, preventing any positive change. i have been around a LLLOOOONNNGGG time. I know its these people that chase good hard working VOLENTEERS from town service/government.
Do we really want those kind of people making " good, well educated, well researched decisions for our Walpole" When they have tossed fellow committee member out in the cold.
Pay attention everyone we now know how they are, who really wants to stop proggress
Surrounding towns have been very sucessful growing, changing, evolving and doing it with a combination of things
Maybe know we can get something done around here.
Good job Mr Rockwood
Please FINCOM, BOS,RTMs, CONCOM, Planningboard, W&S and EDC DO SOMETHING!!!!! Jon cleaned out the spiderwebs its time for Change and only you people can start it

Surrounding towns have never considerred Power plants, Biotech level 3, trash, and propane. The folks you "mock" are the one's who saved us from all that. The folks you quote as being :thrown out" are the ones with the same standards as surrounding towns.

The folks who have been arouns a LLLLLOOOOONNNNNNGGGGGG time are the ones who keep trying to "get things done" with a pile of crap in every neighborhood (except North Walpole).

And let me ask you how "good and well educated" a decision it is for the Chairman of the Board of Selectman to be hiring her husband's boss.

You make absolutely no sense, but it sure sounds like you are trying to make a case to make your cronies loook good. It sadly has no facts to support it. Just like most everything the smokestack perchers do. Devoid of facts.

[Sparky]

Were the five members in the 8-5 bylaw vote the same five that got dismissed?

[Unregistered]

I think that Mr. Rockwood's action caused a stir because he hasn't come forward with announcing any replacements for the 5 FinCom members that were dismissed. He may have people in line to fill these postions, but not coming forward has cast a dim light on his decision. It's not a matter of what was done, it's a matter of how and why it was done. I don't agree that these people have held Walpole from moving forward. They held Walpole from moving forward in a wrong direction. Clean business, good schools and infrastructure are the direction of the future. Not same old, same old, different day.

[Unregistered]

I think that Mr. Rockwood's action caused a stir because he hasn't come forward with announcing any replacements for the 5 FinCom members that were dismissed. He may have people in line to fill these postions, but not coming forward has cast a dim light on his decision. It's not a matter of what was done, it's a matter of how and why it was done. I don't agree that these people have held Walpole from moving forward. They held Walpole from moving forward in a wrong direction. Clean business, good schools and infrastructure are the direction of the future. Not same old, same old, different day.

I for one will definately find out the background on the new appointees. How long have they waited to get on? When did they apply? Did they really apply, or were they recruited after this debacle unfolded??

[Unregistered]

I think that Mr. Rockwood's action caused a stir because he hasn't come forward with announcing any replacements for the 5 FinCom members that were dismissed. He may have people in line to fill these postions, but not coming forward has cast a dim light on his decision. It's not a matter of what was done, it's a matter of how and why it was done. I don't agree that these people have held Walpole from moving forward. They held Walpole from moving forward in a wrong direction. Clean business, good schools and infrastructure are the direction of the future. Not same old, same old, different day.

question: What clean businesses have been brought to Walpole by the "league of saviors of Walpole"??

[Unregistered]

Please do not forget the heartfelt resignation of the 6th person( media silence ??) who could not stand by and let this happen without some personal action. So he needs 6 new people. With true integrity of the process he should actually need 6+2 more.

[Unregistered]

That seems like a pretty good assesment of Jon Rockwood to me.

yes, last election I noticed no one ran against him so he must be doing something right. only when he does something a few people don't like do people, like you, start complaining about him.

[Unregistered]

question: What clean businesses have been brought to Walpole by the "league of saviors of Walpole"??

Right on...

Someone please tell me the last time the selectman or anyone attracted any kind of new busiiness to walpole? and please dont say the "farmers market"

and not the so called "Mall"..they had nothing to do with that too.

[Unregistered]

I think that the last new businesses that came to town were Goldies, they moved from Braintree/Quincy line. I used to buy my parts there when I was in high school, graduated in 1966.
Zion's junkyard used to be approximately where Chris' towing and auto service is now. I had Kenny Zion replace a transaxle in my Volkswagen and that was 1973.
I don't know when Allied Recycling came to town, I wasn't here then.
I also don't know if it is the responsibility of the BoS to bring business to town.
That is now the job of Stephanie Mercandetti, I've forgotten her exact title, but Don Walsh preceded her and nothing is new in town except for the farmers' market. At least it brings in some people to downtown, let's hope that it is successful for the farmers and the downtown merchants.

[Unregistered]

Well, he's apponited 5 new members plus another one has resigned. Most of the Committee is now made up of school advocates and campaign contributors. So much for Moderation.

[Unregistered]

I see an overide in our future

[Unregistered]

I see an overide in our future

I'm not trying to start an argument and I'm not going to make wise remarks (wise sarcastic, or wise smart), I'm just curious why you say that. Do the people that have been chosen seem to be the type that would support an override? I don't recognize a single name of anyone that was chosen, so I'd be very curious to see what kind of background they have, how they came about being members, if they've ever been on committees in town, things like that. There are a lot of questions that should be answered by somebody. Again, I'm not putting this particular poster on the spot, just curious if they know something everyone should be aware of.