To the editor:
A benefit of running for a seat on the Select Board has been the chance to connect with Lynnfield residents. So far, I’ve had two informal “meet the candidates” events at Panera at MarketStreet, and both times I was able to meet residents in person who I’d only seen online, say hello to friends who generously offered to help, and to reconnect with neighbors and volunteers I hadn’t seen in months. Meeting new and familiar people was evidence of how passionate people can be about helping our town realize its full potential.
These informal meetups also underscore the great importance of respectful collaboration. When I worked as a digital project manager, I often had to establish and maintain new client relationships, and to build consensus even when people had different viewpoints. I learned the importance of focusing on problems rather than personalities, and of helping people understand facts and data rather than telling them what they want to hear. In my experience, it’s great to keep people happy, but it’s more important to build a strong relationship based on trust, active listening, common understanding of the facts, and open and honest discussion.
As a Lynnfield Library Trustee, I’ve greatly enjoyed working with Town employees, fellow elected officials, and dedicated volunteers to benefit the town. I’m eager to serve on the Select Board and have the unique opportunity to connect with the community on a town-wide basis. During this campaign, I urge residents not to just read my letters or Facebook posts, but to actively talk to people involved in the Lynnfield Library, Lynnfield Art Guild, Lynnfield Rotary, SSS PTO, or other volunteer organizations in town that I’ve been a part of. Lynnfield is a small town, and I think it’s relatively easy to learn more about people by asking around. After the town election, we’ll still all be part of the same community, and regardless of the outcome, I hope to work with my fellow residents to build a bright future for our town.
If you weren’t able to stop by my previous meetups but would like to meet or say hello at a future event, please visit www.joeforlynnfield.com or email me at joeforlynnfield@gmail.com. Thanks for reading, and please vote Joe Gallagher for Lynnfield Select Board on Tuesday, April 14 at the Lynnfield Town Election!
Sincerely,
Joe Gallagher
