Dear Editor,

Have you ever attended a town board meeting? Have you thought much about the responsibilities delegated to your local town board? Probably not, unless an issue has come up that concerns you personally. The Exeter Town Board in Green County consists of three elected supervisors who are responsible for various actions and decisions that impact the residents and businesses of Exeter township. All elected members take an oath of office which, we believe, should maintain and preserve the integrity of our governmental processes.

Some town boards may take a step further than the oath of office by issuing a written Code of Conduct to their members, which outlines ethical standards of behavior expected from elected municipal officials. Other boards might handle the matter more informally by simply reminding board members that they are “ambassadors” of the township and, therefore, need to interact with ALL residents in an impartial and respectful manner - during meetings and when out in public. Examples of unethical conduct could be inappropriately discussing board business in public. It might be displays of body language or tone that appear to intimidate or bully, or using derogatory names toward those who simply have a dissenting opinion. We believe all town board supervisors must ALWAYS conduct themselves in a manner that is honest, respectful and true to their “ambassadorship”.

For the first time in over 20 years, the upcoming April 2 election offers a clear choice for Exeter Board Chair. TERRI BELZ is our choice for Board chair as a REGISTERED WRITE IN CANDIDATE. Terri recognizes that engaging all Exeter residents in a fair and positive manner will result in more effective representation for every Exeter resident. We believe that Terri will work hard to be a good “ambassador” for all of us. Is it time for a change in Exeter? We think so!

Please join us and vote for TERRI BELZ on April 2. Terri is a registered write-in candidate even though her nomination papers were submitted on time. On your ballot under Exeter Board Chair, please darken the circle in front of “WRITE IN” and print TERRI BELZ in the box. Thank you.

Ed and Sue Jerome,

Town of Exeter residents