Thoughts on Saturday’s election in Milton
The mood in Milton is more placid these days than it has been in recent years. A number of rancorous personnel and zoning issues have either been resolved or are working their way through the quieter process of the courts. For the time being, things have settled down. That’s even more notable given the fact that voters will be going to the polls Saturday to elect representatives for two open council seats.
Three solid candidates have put their names up for election: John Booros, Gwendolyn Jones and Kristin Patterson. They are volunteering at a time when Milton is pinched financially, the Milton Theatre – once the vibrant jewel in the town’s attractive downtown – now stands shuttered, and many people are watching to see how the town’s future will unfold.
Of the three, Booros and Patterson appear to be in the best position to take over the seats being vacated by Deanna Duby and Mary Hudson, and tend to the business of leading the community with the least catching up to do. Both have been regular attendees at Milton Council meetings in recent years and have extensive business experience.
As a procurement officer for large government agencies, Booros brings a specific kind of knowledge that can help Milton realize efficiencies at a time when taxes and fees are already at their limit, and balancing the budget will depend primarily on wise management of the existing revenue stream.
As financial manager for a medical imaging business in Milton, Patterson can bring that perspective to the council.
Her participation as a member of the town’s economic development committee can also inform the town council position, especially since growth in the budget will have to come from economic growth.
Booros and Patterson have also mentioned the importance of downtown revitalization and townwide events and festivals that can contribute to the town’s growth, and spreading the cost of services across more businesses and households.
What’s most important is that Milton’s voters turn out Saturday and cast their ballots for the candidates they feel can help the town maintain its even keel.
