For almost two decades, I have been deeply involved in town government including 12 years serving as a selectman and 15 years as chair of the Community Preservation Committee. As the sale of my home at Just Right Farm is imminent, I write today to let you know that effective Friday, Sept. 26, I am resigning from the Plympton Board of Selectmen, Plympton Community Preservation Committee and Area 58 Board of Directors.
It has been a great honor and privilege to serve the unique little town of Plympton. Throughout, I have tried as much as possible to encourage and foster civility and transparency in town government, and especially to encourage the preserving of Plympton’s charm and unique rural character…all this while remaining ever cognizant of the substantial tax burden our citizens must bear. It is a challenging and endless battle to keep our tax rate under control while still delivering essential services.
Of the many projects in which I have been involved, I particularly savored the opportunity during my tenure to be part of the creation of three protected areas (Churchill Park/Cato’s Ridge, Two Brooks Preserve and Turkey Swamp). Each of these projects exemplifies what can be accomplished with creative, collaborative multi-sourced funding which minimized cost to taxpayers. Each, though arduous, was a fascinating and thoroughly rewarding exercise. The end result was several hundred acres preserved in perpetuity at very modest cost.
I am deeply appreciative of the chance to serve and am so very thankful for the opportunity to be purposeful. Even with the occasional bumps and inevitable bruises that are an integral part of town politics, it has been rewarding beyond measure.
While no longer living here, Kim and I will not be so far away and we will surely be rooting from the sidelines. I heartily encourage others to get involved, continue the work and make a difference even if it means stretching a little (or a lot). Don’t miss the opportunity!
Heartfelt thanks,
Mark Russo