Web question of the week

Apr 1, 2021
Apr 1, 2021

Last week's town election in Andover saw just 5% of registered voters (or 1,232 people) mark a ballot in which all of the incumbents for local office ran unopposed for reelection. How come more people don't put in their names for Select Board, School Committee or another town position?

TOO MUCH TIME: Serving in local office requires an enormous investment of time, energy and attention -- not to mention headache and frustration. If you really want to help our town, a ton of local groups are more than glad to have you volunteer.

VITRIOL: The politics of this town can get downright ugly. Say the wrong thing about somebody, and yard signs start sprouting like mushrooms after the rain. Who needs the agony?

SMART LEADERS: Andover is fortunate to have smart, capable residents who are willing to serve in these positions. Why run for office when others are doing such a good job?

PRIORITIES? There are many ways to spend one's time, from career to kids to travel. It's good that someone is willing to serve the town, but it's not for everybody.