Why I am running for Chelmsford Moderator

I am running for a second term as Town Moderator with a commitment to fulfill the four principles of my Town Meeting Philosophy: Fairness, Balance, Accountability and Transparency.

1. Fairness: I believe that, above all, the Moderator must insure that all Town Meeting Representatives and residents are treated fairly and respectfully and given adequate time to speak no matter how provocative their point of view.

2. Balance: I believe that all sides of an issue should be heard in any debate of a town meeting article so representatives are well informed before casting their vote. Also, I believe that a proper decorum must be maintained at all times.

3. Accountability: I support the Electronic Voting system that we implemented, two and one half years ago, providing a permanent record of every Town Meeting Representative’s vote. We are the first community in Massachusetts to do so.

4. Transparency: I believe that anyone who addresses Town Meeting should stand and identify themselves; whether they are a resident, a presenter, a Town Meeting representative, a member of the Finance Committee, the Board of Selectman or the School Committee… so that everyone, including the TV viewers, can see who is speaking.  It is both the respectful and courteous thing to do.

I will continue to appoint qualified individuals, who apply, to the Finance Committee to provide financial oversight and recommendations on all budgetary and financial matters to come before Town Meeting.

After a 22 year hiatus, the Moderator’s Advisory Rules Committee was convened in November to review the rules and regulations of Town Meeting. Once their recommendations are presented, I will implement them and I will keep MARCOM as a standing oversight committee to evaluate the proceedings of each Town Meeting.

Finally…I will continue to be prepared for Town Meeting and I will work closely with all elected and appointed officials along with representatives and residents to moderate the town’s legislative agenda.

I respectfully ask for your support and your vote on April 1st and I appreciate this opportunity to serve Chelmsford.

Thank you,

Richard DeFreitas

If you have any comments, questions, or would like more information please contact me at (978) 846-0033 or by email at redef@autobusicon.com