Dear Editor:

Even though I live and vote in (East) Boothbay, the town government in Boothbay Harbor affects me and matters to me. They help determine what gets passed, permitted and built, where you can park, eat, and get a drink by the waterfront. They play a role in facilitating events we love such as Windjammer Days, fireworks, lobster boat races, and my new favorite, the Boothbay Harbor Tuna Challenge. They represent the partnerships that keep all of our water clean (and award winning!), our roads maintained, our schools safe and competent, and our police and fire forces equipped and qualified.

If I did vote in Boothbay Harbor, I’d cast one for Dave Cody to the board of selectmen. I’ve had a few conversations with Dave over the past year or so, and he’s got his head screwed on right. He’s on the planning board and budget review committee, and is former FEMA director for Boothbay Harbor and Southport. His 36 years of firefighting include 13 as fire chief in Salem, Massachusetts ($8 million budget and staff of 100). He is a Boothbay Harbor homeowner, and his kid graduated from our high school.

Some people care about others, not just themselves. Dave strikes me as a thoughtful and capable guy who cares about other people. His addition to the Boothbay Harbor Board of Selectmen will benefit us all.

Matt Hurley

East Boothbay