Fran Newton: A vote for Felton for selectboard is a vote for Ashland

To The Daily Sun,

Having served with Steve Felton on the Ashland Board of Selectmen for three years, I am certain that he should be elected for a three-year term on March 10.

During the three years he served, the town went from $3,000 in capital reserves earmarked for the Town Clock to the well-funded and cost-saving reserves that we have today, facilitating the purchase and repair of equipment, facilities and roads. He also helped implement a Capital Improvement Program, allowing the town to more accurately predict and plan for future needs. We now have a healthy unassigned fund balance to the level recommended by generally accepted accounting standards. He has also served our community on the Budget Committee, the Economic Development Committee, and the School Board.

Like many small towns in New Hampshire, Ashland faces serious financial challenges. Taxes are rising, due in part to reductions in federal and state support for education and infrastructure. To keep taxes affordable, the town must focus on economic development to expand the tax base.

While serving on the Economic Development Committee, Steve organized an Economic Development Forum that brought key state officials to Ashland. Their participation helped identify practical opportunities to support growth and investment in our town. Felton understands how to work with federal, state, and regional partners, and he has the experience needed to coordinate the efforts of our local boards and committees.

For these reasons, I believe Steve Felton has the experience, judgment, and commitment Ashland needs, and I encourage voters to support him for Selectman.

Fran Newton

Ashland