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Dear Friends and Fellow Residents,

I am excited to run for re-election to the Board of Selectmen. Due to the COVID-19 emergency, the town election will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2020. Residents are encouraged to vote by mail, which is easy and safe. Click here for more information or here to access a vote by mail application.

My first term on the Board of Selectmen passed quickly and was spent understanding the complexities of the position, working collaboratively with my colleagues and our new town manager, and finding ways to improve communication with residents.

I have truly enjoyed my first term on the Board of Selectmen and have gained confidence in my role.

If re-elected, I will:

continue to work to improve communication with residents
focus on long-term financial planning
take steps to ensure a stable tax rate and seek ways to promote economic growth
advocate for continued investment in public safety, infrastructure, and education while maintaining high-quality municipal services

I have the experience and temperament to continue leading Shrewsbury in a fiscally responsible manner.

I have worked with the Town Manager and fellow Selectmen to set fiscal policies and priorities that will meet the needs of the community against the backdrop of limited revenue and rising expenses.
As costs continue to rise, I seek to ensure equity among taxpayers when setting rates and determining appropriate fees, understanding that even minimal increases may pose a hardship for some.
As we near full funding of our retirement system, I am working with the Town Manager and Board colleagues on how to utilize newly available revenue to address deferred expenditures and develop a manageable plan for funding our pension obligations.

I am a problem-solver and have displayed a balanced and consistent approach when making important decisions.

I worked with the Town Manager and the Board to establish a vetting process for potential marijuana retailers and negotiated appropriate host community agreements with companies applying for state licenses.
I am committed to working on solutions that will ensure safe, clean drinking water for all residents, and to providing timely and informative communication as action is taken.
I advocated strongly for additional funding for Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services and to increase staffing levels for the fire department to better meet the demands of our growing population.
More can be done to respond to the climate crisis at the local level. I will focus on the impact that decisions and policies have on our changing climate and seek opportunities for grant funding to help achieve sustainability related goals.

I have demonstrated an ability to lead and work with other boards, committees and individuals.

I served as co-chair of the ballot committee that earned overwhelming voter approval for the new Beal Elementary School.
In Shrewsbury, we maintain our public buildings and renovate or replace them when they have surpassed their useful life. It is time to look critically at our police station and bring forth a building project that meets the needs of our growing community.

I am dedicated to helping the most vulnerable in our community and improving the safety net we can provide.

As a Board member for the Shrewsbury Rotary Club I participate in numerous service projects throughout the year, including volunteering at St. Anne’s Human Services to distribute food to families and individuals served through the food pantry.
I serve as Tournament Director for an annual charity golf tournament benefitting Shrewsbury Youth and Family Services, St. Anne’s Human Services and the Westborough Food Pantry.

My husband and I chose to move to Shrewsbury with our two daughters in the fall of 2008, attracted to this well-run, close-knit community with excellent schools. Since then I have been committed to doing my part to add value to the community that is our home and ensure that Shrewsbury remains an excellent place to live, work, raise a family and retire.

Your support is critical to my re-election effort. From writing an endorsement, to sending emails to friends about why you support me, to placing a sign on your lawn or making a financial contribution, every bit helps and is deeply appreciated.

The best part of being a Selectman is the opportunity I’ve had to meet so many residents and participate in the special events, ceremonies, celebrations and traditions that take place throughout the year. I welcome the opportunity to learn about what matters most to you.

Please visit my website www.CasavantForSelectman.com or feel free to contact me at bethcasavant@gmail.com or (508) 641-8174.

Thank you in advance for your consideration.