There are Many Positives in Ashland

It’s so easy to get caught up in the town’s problems – high property taxes, economic woes, increasing distrust or lack of faith in our governing body, crumbling roads and bridges, and a fire department roof that is in critical condition.  But it’s important to also stop and look at the positive.  At the recent financial forum, a member of the audience spoke about Ashland’s charm and how we should do more to market this.  Today, an acquaintance spoke of the all good the town does for those in need, e.g., the fire fighters auxiliary collecting gifts for Operation Santa for Ashland kids in need, Food for All, Got Lunch, etc.  And so I would like to point out a few other things. 

Take the Christmas lights that Sherry puts up year after year.  Look at the whiskey barrels with flowers, also thanks to Sherry.  Look at the beautiful flowers that the garden club plants every year around the monuments.  We have a July 4^th celebration and fireworks that are the envy of many other towns in New Hampshire.  Thanks to Patty and the rest of the committee for your years of service.  We had a health fest that received rave reviews from those who attended.  Appreciation goes out to Steve Felton and the budget committee for the difficult work they do and especially for the financial forums which brought not only valuable information to the town residents about our financial situation, but also giving us a voice.  Thanks to Steve Heath and the other volunteer fire fighters for keeping us safe.  I have witnessed on at least two occasions since I moved here when the town came together to raise money for folks who had experienced great hardship.  I highly value our award-winning school and the amazing staff that we are blessed with.  I know I’m leaving out many other things and people, and for that I apologize.  In fact, I would like to hear more about them.

In the last two years, I have become increasingly involved in the affairs of this town (and I know there are those who are not happy about this), as are several others, because we have followed the lead of our town administrator, Paul Branscombe.  I ask you to take a moment to inventory all that he has done for the town.  Today, drive down Main Street and look at the beautiful banners, an effort he led.  If you attended the music in the park this summer, thank Paul Branscombe.  Look at the HEAL grant that the town was awarded and know that it was because Paul took a suggestion to apply for the grant and moved it forward.  Paul works tirelessly, always looking out for the best interests of the town.  He brought in an energy audit.  He inspired cost saving and ecologically sound measures at the transfer station.  He has brought a new level of transparency to the town with his regular communications.  Observe any Select Board meeting to see how the selectmen continually turn to him to answer questions.  The list is endless – negotiations with Time Warner Cable, rapid action on the Collins Street bridge, exploration of grant opportunities, financial concern and oversight of the budget, etc., etc.  I know his contract is up for renewal, and I sincerely hope for the sake of Ashland’s future that this happens immediately. 

Yes, we do have to face a number of serious problems in town.  But there is so much good and we need to hold on to that if we are to overcome our differences and solve our problems.

Fran Newton