I'm running for Gilmanton Road Agent but I support Article 21

To The Daily Sun,

Gilmanton voters:

My name is Raymond "Mickey" Daigle and I am running for Gilmanton Road Agent. I have lived in Gilmanton for 40 years, operating RM Daigle Excavating here for 38 years.

I was a member of the Gilmanton Corner Fire Department, a member of the Gilmanton Budget Committee and chairman of the Gilmanton Roads Committee. I plowed and worked as a subcontractor on Gilmanton roads for the past three road agents during the 1970s and '80s. I have been active in other town organizations and affairs volunteering time and equipment.

Today the Gilmanton Road Budget is close to $1 million and it is important that the department be efficient, responsive and accountable, and that the value received from existing funding is maximized. I will work cooperatively with selectmen and other departments and encourage support from the roads committee, experienced residents, the Municipal Association and other administrators. I will respond in a timely manner to all contacts.

Working cooperatively with the Roads Committee and other resources we will evaluate existing road infrastructure to develop a long-range plan of work for the community placing the town in a proactive rather than a reactive position. Employees will be supported with appropriate training and licensing. Town facilities will be repaired and maintained. An inventory of town equipment, tools and supplies will be created and maintained.

I would commit the town roads crew to regular/preventative road maintenance and equipment and facilities upkeep. Major equipment repairs would be performed by a qualified, experienced provider. Road reconstruction projects would be adequately designed, proposed through a warrant article for the voters to approve and accomplished through the bid process by companies with the right experience and resources to complete the work efficiently.

I would propose a non-capital reserve fund, expendable by the selectmen, to cover the expenses of unusual winter weather, like this year, so that the funds are not drawn from other important project line items in the budget.

Lastly, I also support Warrant Article 21 to change to an appointed road agent for the purposes of continued accountability and transparency in this key town position. The appointed position would be accountable to the people and the selectmen every day.

The job of road agent is not an easy one, and my choice to run for this position is not a reflection on the existing department administration, but it is my belief that changes are necessary to meet the future needs of the community.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions. I would appreciate your consideration on March 10. Voting will be held at the Gilmanton School from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Raymond "Mickey" Daigle

Gilmanton