Now the work begins

I got a call from a friend the other day congratulating me on my victory. He told me that he waited a week so my head had enough time to shrink back to its original size. Then he said, "We've got to do something about that #$^%& high school."

So, first of all, I offer my congratulations again to everyone who won on May 20. Having run for office - twice - I've a lot of respect for those who serve. It requires an incredible amount of effort and dedication, and as one of our elected officials said to me, standing in front of post offices asking for signatures is a hell of a way to get a job.

Second, I offer my heartfelt thanks to everyone who helped with my campaign. My wife Rebecca, our kids, Carol, Steph, MaryAnne, Roger, John, Debbie, Bob, Jim, Steve, Margo, Henry, Greg, Ed, Sheryl, Deb, Louise, Marsha, Mike, John, Milt, Margaret, Paul, John, Mary, Bob, Marie, Michael, Margaret, Peter, Charlotte, Adele, Linda, Grace, Nancy, Pat, Cici, Ernie, Mike, Maria, Neil, Jeanne, Gino, Carmella, John, Joanne, Alice, John, Joe, Catherine, Leslie, Jane, George, Jim, Marty, Jack, Audrey, John, Bill, Cliff, Maureen, Winifred, Dave, Ed, John...the list goes on and on, and so could I. Thank you VERY much. This was truly a team effort.

Third, my thanks - again - to those who have offered congratulations. This includes the selectmen, Ahmed Mustafa, Carey Murphy, Mary Pat Flynn and Kevin Murphy, all of whom took the time to personally congratulate me last Tuesday night (Ahmed even left his own party to see me). Classy folks, all of them. As are people like Rob, who spotted me in Stop & Shop yesterday and went out of his way to offer his hand. Thank you all.

So thank you, Falmouth. I want you to know that you will always have my ear, and I will always work hard to be your voice. As long as we remember that the things that unite us and bind us as a community are greater than the differences between us, we will accomplish great things for our town.

Now it's time to get to work - and there's much work to be done.

News, swearing-in and Memorial Day

There have been a few more articles in local rags and blogs about Tuesday's election...

Voters Reluctantly Approve Tax Hike

Post-Election Analysis - What Did We Learn in Falmouth?

...although I must admit to being partial to this article...

The eagle has landed: Former scout Brent Putnam is Falmouth’s newest selectman

I'm not sure if Joe Burns, the reporter who interviewed me, knew that I'm an amateur astronomer. The title, "The eagle has landed," alludes to the statement made by Neil Armstrong when the Apollo 11 lunar module landed on the moon.


My swearing-in on Memorial Day was full of smiles. My friends, family and supporters joined me and the other newly elected candidates (and their friends, family and supporters) to watch the event.

My youngest daughter and I then walked to the village green. Michael Arth, the Teaticket Elementary school principal, had asked me and several other parents to help herd a few dozen 3rd and 4th graders along the parade route to the library where the children placed flowers and flags at the markers of Falmouth's veterans.

My thanks to Dawn and the other parents for helping with this.

The event was followed by some socializing at the library and then at the Elk's Club on Palmer Avenue. Thanks to everyone for all of the congratulations.

And yes, I've heard from a number of folks about the editorial in the Falmouth Enterprise. Obviously, not everyone is happy about my election. It happens.

Updates

Swearing-in
I've received word from the town clerk, Michael Palmer, that he will be swearing-in all newly elected town officials at 9am on Monday, on the town hall steps (weather permitting) before the Memorial Day observance.

My dad
Thanks again for the thoughts and prayers...much appreciated.

I spent Thursday and Friday at the hospital with my siblings, and our father is showing steady improvement. This morning, my sister called to inform me that he is getting up on his own - a remarkable improvement given the total paralysis of his left side just a few days ago. As a result, he has been moved from intensive care and may be in a rehab facility within a week.

I'll be in Maine again on Sunday, but back Monday for the Memorial Day observance. My youngest daughter will be participating.

Making it official and other news

Swearing-in
A few of you have asked about when I become official and get sworn-in. Well, the clerk's office has to wait seven days to allow for any recount requests, challenges, etc. before they can certify the results as official. I don't have an exact date yet, but it will probably be sometime next week (after Memorial Day).

I'll let you know.

Signs
If you have one of my signs - or see one - please bring it by my place. We can reuse or recycle the metal stands, and it was reported that the Morse Pond elementary students may be able to use the corrugated plastic for an art project.

Let's try to keep as many of these out of the waste stream as possible.

Thanks again
So many of you have expressed congratulations, and I've tried to answer every call and email that has come my way. If you've not heard from me yet, you will.

On a personal note...
My father had a stroke, and I write this post from my brother's home in Maine. Fortunately, he was at a meeting of Boy Scout executives, which is probably the next best thing to being at a firefighter's convention or standing in the hospital when something like this happens.

He was initially paralyzed on his left side, but has since regained motion in his left leg, and has some feeling in his left arm. More importantly, he is fully aware of what happened to him and doesn't appear to have lost any memory - or his sense of humor.

My thanks to those who have offered prayers.

All the news that's fit to print

In case you've not seen them, here are the various reports (so far) about Tuesday's election...

Incumbents Out in Falmouth - High School Passes

Falmouth school project moves forward

Election update: Voters pass ballot questions; elect Putnam and Mustafa

Falmouth voters pass Question 1; elect Putnam, Mustafa

A notable quote

Randy Peat, a town meeting representative from, and captain of, Precinct 8, sent congratulations via email. He said, "You came in a challenger for the people, and coming out, a champion by the people."

Thanks Randy.

And thanks again Falmouth!

Thank you Falmouth!

From the town clerk's office:

UNOFFICIAL RESULTS FOR COMPLETE ELECTION

BALLOTS CAST: 8531

BRENT VW PUTNAM 5293
AHMED A MUSTAFA 5153
C.E. O'BRIEN BUMPUS 3851


Let us not forget that the things that unite us are greater than the differences between us.

Vote...and party

Tomorrow the polls will be open and you - yes, you - will get to exercise your right to vote.

I'd love to say something thoughtful and inspiring, but as I write this my head hurts, my eyes are sore from being in the sun too long today, and I've still a bit of work to do in preparation for tomorrow.

So, get out and vote tomorrow. I'd prefer it be for me, but it is far more important that you simply exercise your right to vote.


Oh...almost forgot...if you're so inclined, I'll be hosting one last gathering of the campaign at the Quarterdeck, downstairs, after the polls close. I'll see you there at 8:30pm or so, and we can either toast to victory, or drown our sorrows in our beers.

Wish me luck!

Falmouth First review

Wednesday at 7pm was Falmouth First, a local television show produced by Kevin Lynch at, and shown on FCTV-13. Jay Zavala was our host.

This format was a little different from what we've had in the past, and not only did we field questions from Jay and the viewers at home, but we got to ask questions of each other.

My first question, directed to incumbent Catherine Bumpus, was about the divisions in town and what she has done to get out to the people (other than planned campaign events or precinct meetings) in parts of town other than her own neighborhood. I'm the president of my neighborhood association (the Old Barnstable/John Parker Neighborhood Association) and the East Falmouth Village Association. However, in spite of the fact that our meetings our open to the public and publicized in the local paper, I've never seen her - or any selectman - attend.

It's a pet peeve of mine, and the reason why I go door to door.

Consider the race last year. Other candidates were talking about things like sewering and beaches, yet the people's biggest issues were a desire to have new/fresh blood in town hall, 40B/development, and the town administration. There was a disconnect that - unfortunately - is still there.

This time around we see advertisements that mention wastewater and education, and candidates talking about the Local Comprehensive Plan, but the man on the street is talking about accountability in government and asking for answers about the high school.

Incumbent Ahmed Mustafa's first question - "Are you having fun?" - was directed to both of us.

My second question was directed to Mr. Mustafa. I noted that we've had three consecutive years of overrides on the ballot, and asked whether we should consider a permanent override at some point, since year after year of temporary overrides are, in essence, permanent.

Those who watched the show will note that I prefaced my question by saying that I wasn't singling anyone out, but that everyone got a turn. I did this because Mr. Mustafa had prefaced his first question by stating that he didn't want to single-out anyone. I'll admit to being a little disturbed by the statement - he made it sound like I was singling out Ms. Bumpus by asking her the first question.

But speaking of singling out...ironically, both of Ms. Bumpus' questions were directed to me.

Her first question was about one of my statements during the League of Women Voters forum. I had stated that by cutting just 5 percent from the budget, we could save $5 million (it's a $105 million annual budget). Ms. Bumpus asked how, given the current state of "level funding" (i.e., no budget increases) in town government, we would find any savings.

I used my own company as an example. Every year, my employer holds a technology conference in Utah. This is our conference - we host it - so they don't need to profit from my attendance. I can go at cost, but even then, the cost is significant enough to limit my attendance to every other year.

However, in spite of the "level funding", Falmouth still has tens of thousands of dollars earmarked for out-of-state travel for various departments, including more than $9,000 for the town manager's office.

Later in the evening, I also made mention of the $30,000 spent to give the little used Depot Avenue parking lot a facelift. This is unnecessary spending given the fact that there are eight unfunded - and unfilled - positions right now.

It was during my answer to this question that I tossed out an idea I've been thinking about for some time now. The selectmen get a stipend of $3,000, but I've no real need for the money, so I suggested using it to fund a prize that would go toward a town resident or employee who could come up with a way to save us a significant amount of money.

Such incentives are used in the private sector. Why not use them in government?

For her second question, Ms. Bumpus asked if I supported the current wastewater process for addressing the nitrogen issue with the south-facing embayments. Of course I do! And I said so. Although I did take issue with the term "south-facing embayments" because West Falmouth Harbor also suffers from nitrogen loading.

I added that we need to look at alternatives, and cited Mashpee, which also suffers from nitrogen loading. When presented with a $400-600 million price tag for sewering, Mashpee's selectmen immediately looked around for alternatives, such as Nitrex.

The cold, hard truth is that Falmouth residents cannot afford a $500 million project (note that we have many more embayments to address than Mashpee does). As one person at the post office suggested to me, at that price we might as well just buy properties and intentionally abandon them.

The evening ended on a high note when Moderator Jay Zavala noted that we still had a few more minutes. I found myself the beneficiary of the rotation, getting the last word on a question about instilling trust in the high school project. My answer should come as no surprise...open the books, open the doors and let the people see what is going on - that is how you build trust in government.

League of Women Voters forum review

The League of Women Voters forum was held on Tuesday, May 13 at 7:30pm at the Morse Pond Elementary School.

I enjoyed moderator Ed Dewitt's opening statement, where he said that (and I paraphrase here) 'armchair politics are not enough' and commended those who step up to serve. I certainly have a great deal of respect for anyone running for office - it's not easy.

Blogger, columnist and former selectman Troy Clarkson wrote posted about the forum ("Selectmen Candidates Share Signature Issues"), so there probably isn't too much I can add. However, I did think he mischaracterized my response to a question about the high school override. So I offered a correction.

The Falmouth Enterprise also did an excellent write up of the evening, which included the other contested races.

One topic of discussion was the three overrides, although both incumbents noted that the overrides are debt exclusions. However, as I've said before, it's still a tax increase. Indeed, the state requires that the ballot question use the word "override".

I had said in my opening statement that my signature issue is good government, which I define as open, accountable and fiscally responsible. Regarding the latter, I noted that the town manager's office has $9,000 in it's budget for out-of-state travel, which was explained to town meeting as being conventions. Given that there are eight unfunded positions, I feel that this is fiscally irresponsible; travel to conventions is not required for the town to function. And I said so.

There was also a question about our attendance records. A gentleman asked about the incumbents' attendance at selectmen's meetings and mine at conservation commission meetings. Oddly enough, the incumbents were able to rattle off their answers as though they knew the question was coming. Hmmm...

However, this isn't a figure I had on hand, especially since I left the conservation commission a year ago. I asked him to provide me with his name and number after the forum so I could get back to him with the answer.

His response was a bit startling - he returned to the microphone, seemingly offended and angry at my offer. He wanted it to be a matter of public record, so I stated that I'd put it on my blog for all the world to see.

[An aside...a member of the audience later told me that this person gave a thumbs up to a known supporter of one of the incumbents. Hmmm...]

So for the record, I was speaking with Laura Reckford of the Falmouth Enterprise yesterday when she reminded me that she had asked the attendance question last year. It all served to jog my memory a bit.

I know I missed a meeting here and there during my tenure with the commission, and I've a couple of boxes of minutes to dig through to get the exact numbers. However, late in 2006 there were several events that caused me to miss many meetings - not to mention days of work. The first was the death of my wife's grandmother.

When I first met Irene, she took one look at me and said, "You're too skinny," and proceeded to feed me. Twenty pounds and almost twenty years later, I had known Irene better and longer than I'd known my own grandmothers, so her passing was hard on all of us.

Two months later - to the day - my mother died. Both had succumbed after long battles with cancer, so they had not been instantaneous shocks so much as long struggles. It was a tough couple of months and I missed many days of work and more than a few commission meetings.

I've always believed that family comes first - I hold that value above most others, including public service - so I've no apologies about missing commission meetings because of these events. If someone wants to skewer me for adhering to my values, so be it.

More importantly, in spite of my absences, the selectmen reappointed me to the commission the following spring. It was a unanimous vote - even the two incumbents I'm running against had voted for me.


All that said; let's compare apples to apples. All three candidates - the two incumbents and myself - are town meeting representatives. You can see how our attendance records compare on the Town Meeting page of the town website, but can you compare our town meeting votes?

You can't, because I am the only one of the three to post my town meeting votes.

The petition the selectmen never answered

Recently, some have suggested that I have waffled on the high school override that is Question 1. The truth is that my message - indeed, the message sent by 35 town meeting representatives - has been very consistent.

The high school needs to be finished, but we need to shed light on this. The books need to be opened and the people need to know what is happening here. Indeed, the Tuesday, May 13 edition of the Falmouth Enterprise, opined...

"Best hope for passage of the ballot question on additional funding for the high school is to answer as many questions as possible in the coming week and for everyone involved to be open and candid.

It doesn’t help when public school officials make a tour private. They should have opened the doors wide for everyone to see. Everyone, regardless how they plan to vote next week, wants a clear accounting of the project. Openness can only help."

The high school needs to be finished, but the people deserve answers.

For example, we've been told that the project is 2/3rds completed and all the surprises (such as asbestos) have been found, so the rest of the project should move along smoothly.

But if this is the case, why are we replenishing the contingency fund to the original $8 million? Wouldn't $2-3 million be enough if only 1/3rd of the project remains?


This is the full text of the petition reported in the Falmouth Bulletin, now signed by 35 town meeting representatives and presented to the selectmen in writing on April 16. The Board of Selectmen never acknowledged - via phone, email or postal service - that they had received or even considered this petition.

We, the undersigned Town Meeting Representatives, respectfully request that the Falmouth Board of Selectmen,

1) Conduct an independent audit of Phase I of our – the taxpayer's – high school renovation project, including review and comment by an independent cost estimator. This should be completed prior to the May 20 election to assure Falmouth's taxpayers that all funds spent to date have been spent responsibly. This will also provide the selectmen and building committee with a clear picture of what of the original $67.5 million is available.

2) Conduct a comprehensive review of the renovation project. This should, at a minimum, include the Phase I interim audit, the state-required audit, all litigation information (obviously this won't be available until all cases are settled), and a cause and effect analysis.

We do not want a witch-hunt, or to stall or prevent completion of our school's renovation. These requests are intended to provide answers about the project's finances, explain how it got out of control, and how the issues have been and will be resolved.

These requests are not unreasonable. During the joint meeting of the Board of Selectmen and High School Building Committee on Monday, March 31, Selectman Mustafa noted that, "People want the facts," and Chairman Murphy said the people need "transparency" from town government.

Taxpayers are being asked for an additional $18.8 million to complete this project. Property tax bills will bear an additional sum for 20 years if the override succeeds. If Falmouth's taxpayers are to approve this request, Falmouth's leaders must first show that our taxes have been spent responsibly, that the questions will be answered, and that the lessons learned will be applied to future public projects.


Brent Putnam, Precinct 9
Carol Murphy, Precinct 9
William Peck, Precinct 9
Scott Thrasher, Precinct 4
Chester Krajewski, Precinct 3
John Weir, Precinct 3
Stanley Bazycki, Precinct 2
Cynthia Botelho, Precinct 4
Deborah Aguiar, Precinct 9
Charlotte Tashiro, Precinct 4
Douglas Brown, Precinct 3
Margo Finnell, Precinct 8
Bruce Barrow, Precinct 8
Leslie Lichtenstein, Precinct 8
Ron Smolowitz, Precinct 8
Ed Schmitt, Precinct 8
Rebecca Putnam, Precinct 9
Michael Mueller, Precinct 9
Linda Davis, Precinct 4
John Farrell, Precinct 9
Grace O'Gorman, Precinct 4
Louise Houle, Precinct 8
Diane Thompson, Precinct 2
Maureen Northern, Precinct 2
James Nidositko, Precinct 6
Joe Martinho, Precinct 9
Diane Poole, Precinct 9
Robert Young, Precinct 5
Michael Freeman, Precinct 8
Margaret Freeman, Precinct 8
Veronica Zylinski, Precinct 9
Randall Peat, Precinct 8
Rebecca Putnam, Precinct 9
Dan Shearer, Precinct 6
Michael Netto, Precinct 9


Readers will note that nowhere in the petition does it say that the high school should not be finished. Rather, it very clearly states that "We do not want...to stall or prevent completion of our school's renovation" but rather, "These requests are intended to provide answers about the project's finances, explain how it got out of control, and how the issues have been and will be resolved."

Is that too much to ask?

Cape Cod Times questions

Aaron Gouveia at the Cape Cod Times asked each of the candidates for selectman a few questions. Here are the questions, and answers...

Age: 37
Years on Cape: 21
Education: Falmouth High School, associates degree in Computer Information Systems from Cape Cod Community College
Experience: Town Meeting representative and Precinct 9 captain; President of the East Falmouth Village Association; President of the Old Barnstable/John Parker Neighborhood Association; Vice President and Webmaster of the Friends of Falmouth Farms; former member of the Falmouth Conservation Commission
Occupation: Network engineer
Own or rent property in town: own

1. What must be done to complete the Falmouth High School renovation project without further delays and cost increases?

Order an independent audit. This would pinpoint how the money was spent to date, how much would be needed to complete the project, and even identify lost money or where money could be saved. Moreover, having a third party looking over things keeps everyone involved honest.

2. Should affordable housing be built in town, and if so where?

It has to be; there's a social need and state requirements. Ideally, it should be built in or near village centers to discourage sprawl; last year I suggested using the unused parking lot off Depot Avenue. However, there may be occasions when we have to build it elsewhere.

3. How will you respond to taxpayer concerns about increased taxes due to overrides and debt exclusions, such as the high school, the department of public works and the fire department?

Taxpayers should vote their conscience; they have the last word. I have the same concerns, which is why I'm running for selectman. When faced with budget problems, most of us will tighten our belts first, but government often does this only as a last resort.

4. What is your top issue?

Better government; we need to raise the bar. We need to have a passion for excellence, to be dissatisfied with mediocrity, and not make or accept excuses; to act on the issues and opportunities we face by setting aggressive goals, but to hold ourselves accountable in the process.

Another endorsement

In the May 11 Cape Cod Times, East Falmouth resident Shirley Faitoute wrote (among other things),

"Always a gentleman and respectful of others' opinions, he takes the time to listen. I support Brent Putnam because I know he will keep his promise to 'promote open, accountable and fiscally responsible town government.' A vote for Brent Putnam is a vote for a more balanced board of selectmen."

An endorsement

Former selectman Troy Clarkson has endorsed my (and Ahmed Mustafa's) candidacy for selectman.

In his weekly column in the Falmouth Bulletin, "Troy's Take," Troy noted,

"...Putnam has continued to impress many with the depth of his understanding of the complex issues facing the town. In his questionnaire, he spoke of the need for “leaders who can relate to, and unite, all of Falmouth’s demographic groups; leaders who work for the common interest…” Too often in our community lately, we have seen the opposite. His campaign energy is also impressive. He truly seems interested and engaged with what the Falmouth voters think — this has been a bit of a missing link lately as well."

Troy had more to say, and you can read it in Troy's Take: I'm voting for Mustafa and Putnam.

Campaign Events on FCTV-13

For those of you who still subscribe to Comcast, there will be two (2) events televised on Falmouth Community Television (FCTV), Channel 13, next week.

The first is the League of Women Voters forum. This airs live on Tuesday, May 13 at 7:30pm. If you want to be in the 'live studio audience' and/or ask a question or two, it will be at the Morse Pond Elementary School. If you come at 7pm, you'll have time to ask me some questions directly.

The second is Falmouth First, produced by Kevin Lynch, which also airs live. It will be on Wednesday, May 14, at 7pm. While there is no provision for a studio audience, you can call in (508-457-1604) and pose questions.

Troy Clarkson questions

Troy Clarkson, a Precinct 5 town meeting representative and former selectman, has a blog entitled "Entering Falmouth" where he comments on various Falmouth-related issues. Like the League of Woman Voters, Troy asked the candidates for selectman a few questions.

Here are the questions, and my answers...

1. What is your vision for the next three years fiscally, operationally, and socially in Falmouth?

Falmouth has a diversity seen in few communities of this size. We have multi-generational natives and wash-ashores; blue-collar tradesmen and PhD's; young families and retirees; a tourist trade and academic institutions. We need leaders who can relate to, and unite, all of Falmouth's demographic groups; leaders who work for the common interest rather than special interests.

This morning I was in Woods Hole and a local businessman asked about my thoughts on the proposal to widen Water Street and eliminate street parking. I hadn't yet formed an opinion – I really didn't know that much about it – but as I listened to his concerns, I found myself thinking that this situation was very much like one East Falmouth faced not too long ago.

For many years, Route 28 in East Falmouth did not get repaved because the state wanted to widen the road dramatically. The residents of East Falmouth resisted because the entire character of the village would change if this happened, turning what is now a main road into a de-facto highway.

These may be different villages and different roads, but there are common values and a common interest here; something that can unite us as a town.

Socially, I envision a Falmouth where we seek out these common values and interests and support our neighbors instead of focusing on our divisions and squabbling amongst ourselves.


Fiscally, Falmouth may have a great bond rating, but that has more to do with paying our bills than having a good, sound budget. I see a budget that is balanced not by passing overrides year after year, but by exercising good, fiscal common sense.

Rather than repeat myself, I'll refer you to question #2 for details and examples.


The United States of America is the most productive nation in the world by a wide margin. Such efficiency is not an accident; it often requires an up-front investment of some sort that reaps rewards later on. With this in mind, I was disappointed when the selectmen chose not to support the DPW reorganization. Sure, there's an initial cost to this, but it's an investment that promises increased efficiency and productivity.

Operationally, we should be seizing these opportunities, not shelving them. Over the next three years, I see an aggressive attempt to rethink every facet of town government; to leave no stone unturned in an effort to maximize the taxpayer's dollar.

Moreover, this is one of those common interests that everyone could support. Improved efficiency means doing as much, if not more, with the same budget; we could both save and spend money without increasing taxes. It's the best of all possible worlds.


2. Do you feel, as has been stated at Selectmen's meetings, that a debt/capital exclusion is now "a way of life" for our local government? Why or why not?

The use of overrides for anything other than major capital projects reveals a failure to reduce expenses or increase revenues – or both – in order to balance the budget.

By separating essentials – such as new fire department equipment or road maintenance – from the budget, the town management has successfully avoided trimming the fat. Few people will vote against a new ambulance, and anyone who drives won't tolerate potholes very long. These are needed, so the taxpayers will fund them.

However, things that aren't needed – and which taxpayers won't fund – are still in the budget. For example, the town manager's office has $9,100 in this year's budget for out-of-state travel, i.e., conventions. Do we really need this for the town to function? I certainly don't think so.

Even worse, town management has made a habit of unnecessary overrides. In 2006, they tried to disguise an override as a water tower that was already bought and paid for. That failed, but last year they succeeded in getting an override to pay for sludge removal – an operational expense that should have been covered by increasing the water/sewer rates and the fees paid by septic haulers.

This practice endangers future projects because the taxpayers will eventually cry 'uncle' under the parade of overrides and start rejecting these tax increases. What if it's sewering that they reject? What then for Oyster Pond, Waquoit Bay or West Falmouth Harbor?

That said; there may be times when more money truly is needed.

One option is to increase the tax rate via an override, or an increase in assessed fees (for things like dump stickers). This is an inherently unpopular way of raising revenue.

The other option is to broaden the tax base, which in turn will increase revenues. Unless we get creative and come up with new fees and taxes (also unpopular), broadening the tax base usually means encouraging business.

However, we need to diversify our economy; we need businesses that operate year-round which pay wages high enough to raise our standard of living. Aside from tax revenue generated directly by these businesses, the jobs created would make it easier for residents to afford things – like boats and cars – which generate excise taxes.

Finally, there's the question of being up front and open about the fiscal needs of the town. If there's truly a need to raise the tax rate permanently, then town management should make that case instead of stringing the people along year after year with one “temporary” increase after another.


3. The Town of Braintree just changed its Selectmen/Town Meeting form of government in favor of a Mayor/Town Council. How do you feel about this as it relates to Falmouth?

I've heard from folks on both sides of this issue, and while there are pros and cons on both sides, the issue of accountability stands out.

With respect to town meeting, one Falmouth resident noted in a local paper that there is “very little basis for judging any candidate's past performance because there is no record of how he/she voted, no accountability.” As far as I know, I'm the only town meeting representative to publicly post my town meeting votes; getting all 243 town meeting members to do this could be a challenge. In a smaller body, such as a town council, the votes are much easier to record and publicize.

The problem of accountability also exists at the executive level, albeit in a different way. Day-to-day operation of the town is done by the town manager, but he is not directly accountable to the people. He need only satisfy three of the five selectmen to keep his job, whereas a mayor must satisfy the people.

There's much to be said for tradition, and Falmouth's representative town meeting is the oldest in the state. However, as the size and complexity of our community grows, there is a greater need to hold our leaders responsible for their decisions. This can be accomplished either by electing those who inherently believe in being held accountable, or by changing our form of government so it is easier to hold our leaders accountable.

Coffee with YOUR Candidate

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“COFFEE WITH YOUR CANDIDATE” WITH CANDIDATE FOR FALMOUTH SELECTMAN BRENT PUTNAM

(Falmouth, MA, May 4, 2008) – Candidate for Falmouth Selectman Brent Putnam will be holding a “Coffee with YOUR Candidate” meet and greet Friday, May 9 from 7am to 9am at Betsy's Diner, 457 Main Street, downtown Falmouth.

“We've done evening gatherings and weekend gatherings just like everyone else,” stated Carol Murphy, Mr. Putnam's campaign manager, “but to our knowledge, no one has done anything in the morning. This could be a first in a local campaign, but it's not unusual for Brent to lead the way.”

Ms. Murphy referred to things like Putnam's blog, www.FalmouthLocal.com, where he posts his town meeting votes – something no other town meeting representative does. She also mentioned his door-to-door campaigning, which has received a warm reception from the voters.

“There are people who have lived in Falmouth for decades – if not their entire lives – and Brent is the first person to knock on their door and ask for their opinion,” noted Murphy. “No one has brought local government to the people like Brent has.”

When asked about how he feels his campaign is going, Putnam was upbeat, “The support for my campaign is amazing; there's been a very positive response to my message of open, accountable government.”



Contact:
Brent Putnam, Chair
Carol Murphy, Manager
Vote Putnam Committee
P.O. Box 2031
North Falmouth, MA 02556
(508) 444-0222
Brent@FalmouthLocal.com
www.FalmouthLocal.com

###

A day in the life of a campaign

My day starts at 9am with coffee, a blueberry muffin and the Falmouth Enterprise at Coffee Obsession. There are a few other folks doing the same, but it's still quiet and clearly early for a Saturday morning in Woods Hole.

I'm here to meet the people, but I'm not the pushy sort. If someone recognizes me and wants to talk, I'm available. However, I finish my breakfast and catch up on the front page news before anyone takes advantage of the opportunity.

I drop the paper in my car and walk over to the Woods Hole post office where I run into Kevin Lynch and former selectman Troy Clarkson. They're here doing "man on the street" interviews about the high school that will air on FCTV-13. They had interviewed me when I was at the North Falmouth post office - a much nicer day than today, which is cold and damp. There's not much foot traffic right now, so Troy and Kevin move on to another post office.

It isn't long before one of the postal workers pops her head out the door inquiring about why I'm loitering here. She seems to relax when I explain myself and give her a "palm card" - a copy of my literature. Post offices are natural gathering places for political campaigning.

There are a few tourists who happen by, and some summer residents who are not registered to vote here. Occasionally someone refuses a card, but the reception is generally good. A couple of folks tell me that they will be supporting another candidate. I remind them that there are two seats, and they acknowledge that but still show no interest; "bullet" voters, probably.

For the uninitiated, bullet voting is a practice where, in a multi-candidate race, you vote for only one candidate. It has the effect of denying the other candidates a vote. Some encourage the practice, but I can't see why anyone would give up their right to vote by leaving a box blank. I've ancestors who fought for this right, so if I don't like the choices on the ballot, I nearly always write in a candidate. I've voted for Mickey Mouse a few times; good fellow.

Eric, the owner of Pie in the Sky comes by and asks a few questions. He mentions the plan to widen Water Street and eliminate street parking. I don't know much about it, so I ask him to share his perspective.

He acknowledges that there have been some accidents because the street is so narrow, but suggests that the width helps keep speeds down and widening it will only encourage traffic to move faster. Eric's concerned also about losing parking - which is quite limited in Woods Hole.

I'm reminded of the situation that East Falmouth faced not long ago, and I share this with Eric. For years, Route 28 in East Falmouth didn't get repaved because the state wanted to dramatically widen the road. The residents of East Falmouth resisted because it would turn what is now a main street into a de-facto highway.

These may be different villages and different roads, but there's a common thread here; something that can unite us if we're willing to see it that way.

Webster Woods is Eric's other issue, and I share both my thoughts that the Woods should be spared, and my concerns about the proposed alternative on Oshman Way. Frankly, I'm not comfortable with either alternative, probably because neither option sounds all that good.

"Good enough" is not good enough; there has to be a better way.

Around 10am my campaign manager, Carol, shows up. Campaigning can be tiring, and it is the enthusiasm of supporters like Carol which keeps me going.

It turns out to be a good morning. Most of the folks are positive or non-committal. The only truly negative comment of the day came from a woman who, upon hearing that I had been on the conservation commission, angrily walked away while saying something disparaging about the commission. Apparently she considered "conservation commission" to be a four-letter word.

One gentleman expressed support for my candidacy because I post my town meeting votes. Two others asked for signs; one offered to volunteer and promised to send a check. More than a few raised concerns about the high school and the lack of accountability. For those folks, I shared my thoughts about the need for an audit and an investigation.

By noon, it's been a good - albeit cold - morning and Carol and I are chilled to the bone. The view from the post office is grand - you can see the ferries come and go and Naushon Island is just across the Hole. However, it's a reminder that we're right on the water here - weather and all.

We abandon our places outside the post office for a hot lunch at Pie in the Sky and more talk, this time with a gentleman about the bike path and getting the new, northerly part done. The bread pudding with rum hard sauce was excellent.

Some folks seem to think that Woods Hole is another country, but I suspect that they've never bothered to actually talk with the residents in this part of town. There are good people here; I like this place.

I run home to finish answering Troy Clarkson's questions. Carol stops by to offer some comments and suggestions. We review the plan - there's only about two weeks left in the campaign - and go over the progress so far.

While I'm home, I field a few calls from supporters; one wanted a sign, another wanted to vent. Apparently some folks have a problem with me - but they've never met or spoken with me; perception sometimes trumps reality.

Becky (my wife) and I head out; I need to go to Staples, check the post office box, and do some door-to-door.

We get the mail from the post office. There's a lot of support for the campaign - checks, requests for signs, etc. One gentleman sends a check with a note that this is his first ever contribution to a political campaign. He's not the only one to say this to me.

After the post office, I go door-to-door in a North Falmouth neighborhood. The responses range from definite, enthusiastic voters to the non-committal. No negatives. A few folks ask questions about the high school and dredging near public docks.

The most memorable response was from a gentleman who exclaimed, "I was just reading your resume in the newspaper." Earlier this year, an old hand in politics reminded me that by running for selectman, I'm actually applying for a job. I took that to heart when I was writing my responses for the League of Women Voters' questions.

After a couple of hours at this, we head home and quickly change into more formal attire. My sister-in-law, Kelly Druley, is being inducted into the Falmouth High School Athletic Hall of Fame tonight. On the way I call another supporter who wanted three signs. Time is short, so I'll have to drop those off tomorrow.

There are some familiar faces at the banquet and expressions of support, but I'm not wearing my button tonight. I'm here to support my family, not campaign.

Back at home it's time to finish those Clarkson questions. The Cape Cod Times wanted answers in 50 words or less, but those were academic questions. Troy is asking questions that require some serious introspection.

It's past midnight when I finally get that email off to Troy. I never did get to Staples. I guess that will be tomorrow...

League of Women Voters Q & A

Published in today's Falmouth Enterprise were the questions posed to the candidates for various elected offices, and their respective answers.

I didn't write as much this year, but I still gave good, detailed answers. Feel free to contact me if you want me to elaborate more.

League of Women Voters of Falmouth
QUESTIONS FOR CANDIDATES FOR FALMOUTH SELECTMAN

NAME: Brent Putnam

ADDRESS: John Parker Road

OCCUPATION: For the past eight years, I have worked for Novell, Inc., a network and infrastructure software company, as a field support engineer. My responsibilities include problem solving, training, troubleshooting, and creating documentation. Because our products are mission-critical to our clients, I often have to work with difficult people in high stress situations that have tight deadlines.

Prior to this, I was employed by the “Big Four” accounting firm, Ernst & Young, LLP as their New England area Network Manager. My responsibilities there included planning, budgeting, and project management. With regard to the latter, I was part of project teams that built new offices in Newton and Hartford, and renovated the Boston office.

I have a consistent record of advancement and achievement with each of my employers. I have been promoted to roles of greater responsibility, and have been repeatedly recognized for my work ethic. In fact, I have received peer recognition awards on four different occasions over the past three years.


Your participation in Falmouth civic activities, including but not limited to participation in town government and town cultural, social, educational, political, business, religious and philanthropic organizations:

In 2006, the residents of Precinct 9 elected me to be one of their Town Meeting Representatives. That fall, my peers elected me Deputy Captain, and last year I was elected Precinct Captain.

I was appointed to the Falmouth Conservation Commission three times; once as an alternate member, and twice as a full voting member. I served for four years, choosing to step down because of other responsibilities.

Those other responsibilities include being President of the East Falmouth Village Association, and of the Old Barnstable/John Parker Neighborhood Association. I have been the webmaster for the Friends of Falmouth Farms for several years now; last year I was also elected Vice President.

I am a member of the Falmouth Amateur Radio Association, and we have family memberships with The 300 Committee and FCTV-13. We attend St. Anthony's Parish in East Falmouth and contribute to the Falmouth Service Center.

I am an Eagle Scout, a graduate of Falmouth High School (Class of '89; Member of the National Honor Society) and Cape Cod Community College (Associate in Science – Computer Information Systems; cum laude); I have been nominated for 2008 Alumni of the Year.

As a family, we are regular volunteers for the Falmouth Cranberry Harvest & Farm Festival. Our children are and have been in the Falmouth Public Schools and Falmouth Youth Hockey. My wife owns her own real estate brokerage here in town and is a member of the Falmouth Chamber of Commerce.


QUESTION A:
“On capitol projects with multi-million dollar budgets, what is the Selectmens' role in assuring that the town avoid significant cost overruns?”

The people of Falmouth look to the Board of Selectmen to be a bulwark of fiduciary responsibility. As the highest elected office in the town, there is an expectation that this body will be a watchdog so that there is never a need to ask taxpayers for more money. Indeed, this responsibility is outlined in various parts of the town code.

For example, the selectmen, “shall maintain liaison with all boards, commissions and committees” (Section C3-7D). The importance of this role cannot be understated, as this is how the selectmen stay on top of town government. If the liaisons are doing their jobs, personality conflicts, budget overruns and other issues would never become front page news.

Because the Board serves “as the chief executive...policy-making board of the town” (Section C3-3A), they can implement proactive policies to protect the taxpayer's dollar. For example, a surety bond could be required for all capital projects. This ensures completion of the project if, for whatever reason, there are issues with contracted parties, be they architects, contractors or otherwise.

Another proactive policy would be to require those who are directly responsible for a project to publicly convey the progress – or lack thereof – via periodic progress reports. Among other things, these reports should include finances, progress toward interim deadlines, and contingency plans for unanticipated problems. A short paragraph in the newspaper would not qualify.

The selectmen exercise control over town affairs by “Recommending major courses of action to the Town Meeting” (Section C3-2B). Therefore, they could recommend that town meeting make these policies a permanent part of the town's bylaws.

Falmouth has no ombudsman. The role “to make investigations and...investigate the affairs of the town and the conduct of any town department, office or agency” (Section C3-5) is granted exclusively to the selectmen.

Audits are one type of investigation. The state requires audits of capital projects when they are completed, but in some cases, years will have passed and tens of millions of dollars will be spent before that happens. For any project that falls behind schedule or over budget, an interim audit should be required. This would help pinpoint how the money was spent to date, help identify how much would be needed to complete the project, and perhaps even find lost money or identify were money could be saved.

A more thorough investigation of the type suggested in the town charter is an excellent way of ensuring accountability when a project has gone completely awry. Good, methodical investigations answer the questions that taxpayers ask: What went wrong? Why? Who is responsible? How can we prevent this from happening again?

Taking these proactive steps can prevent the need for after-the-fact intervention by the town's leaders on future multi-million dollar capital projects.


QUESTION B:
“Which of the nine major elements in Falmouth's Local Comprehensive Plan should be a priority for implementation and how do you suggest that this be accomplished?”

Planning – which falls under Element 1, Land Use & Growth Management – is probably the foundation of the other elements. However, choosing one element as a priority is impossible, as everything is interconnected.

Affordable Housing (Element 5) can bypass local planning via 40B. Economic Development (Element 3) affects affordable housing. If more people make more money, the median income will rise. Because the definition of affordable is based on an income of 80 percent of the median, 40B could become a non-issue. Any development – business, housing or otherwise – will affect water, coastal and wetlands resources (Element 2). Every element dovetails another.

I used to play the trombone, and know from experience that one part in a complex symphony doesn't sound complete by itself. So it is with the Local Comprehensive Plan. This is a comprehensive plan; to prioritize one element over another is like asking a conductor to chose the most important part in the orchestra. This is not a collection of solo performances, but rather a symphony in which each element plays an important part.

The more things change...

"The more things change, the more they remain the same." - Alphonse Karr

My conversations with Falmouth voters last year resulted in a list, something like David Letterman's "Top Ten", which gives a pretty good idea as to what folks are thinking. There was enough interest in enough issues to warrant twelve items.

I probably should've published this sooner, but better late than never. Here's my "Top Twelve" issues on the minds of Falmouth voters in 2007:

1. New/fresh blood in town hall
2. 40B/development
3. Town administration
4. Sewers/nitrogen
5. Fair processes in town government
6. Police department
7. Taxes/Town expenses
8. High school
9. Cranberry bogs
10. Right to bear arms
11. Light trespass
12. Disabled access

My, what a difference a year makes.

Many of the issues are the same, but the order has changed. The high school and police department, which hovered around the middle last year, have rocketed to the top and fallen off completely, respectively. Blame the former on the construction woes and state investigation of TLT (the general contractor at the high school); credit our new chief with the latter.

The issue of taxes/town expenses also moved up, in large part because of the high school override. Development is still an issue, although I've not heard too much about 40B so far. This is probably because the proposed 40B development for CLSV's 31-acre parcel on Route 151 has fallen off the radar, and there's been little news about Little Pond Landing.

I'll present the complete 2008 list in a few weeks, after I've had more time to talk with more people.