Nicole Arsenault: Beyond buzzwords, where do candidates really stand?

To The Daily Sun,

Readers should be careful who they vote for in the upcoming Laconia Municipal Election.

There is still work to be done in Laconia, and the progress that has been made in recent years is significant for Downtown, Lakeport and Weirs Beach. These transformations were the result of diligent planning, and a city willing to invest in its own future. When cities invest in themselves, they experience positive results, including a stronger economy, improved quality of life, and increased civic pride.

While candidates talk of broad concepts and the use of buzzwords like “vision” and “transparency,” what is their real agenda? Those same views of government that threatened to privatize Gunstock are on the ballot this November. Some of their names are even the same. 

Readers should ask candidates where they stand on the issues that are important to them. What is their plan to manage our growth? Research what they have done in the past and don't solely rely on their published platitudes. Do readers want to see Laconia's future sold off and our city managed with short-term thinking? Or should we continue to invest in growth, invest in infrastructure, invest in affordable housing, and continue to live in a city that has something to show for its investment? 

Be careful, Laconia.

Nicole Arsenault

Laconia