In many communities, January marks the beginning of the year.  For many of us in Truro, however, the month of May marks the beginning of a new summer season – a time of adjustment when we embrace sharing this beautiful place with our seasonal residents and visitors.  May is also a month of new beginnings in Town Government, and this year we welcome two new members and new leadership to the Board of Selectmen.

On May 22nd, at the first meeting of the new Board of Selectmen, I was elected to serve as Chair for the next year.  I am grateful to Breon Dunigan for her countless hours of service over the past year as Chair and for her patience and hard work to develop consensus as we grappled with some difficult issues.  Also, I would like to thank retiring Selectmen Gary Palmer and Bill Golden, who both chose not to stand for re-election after many years of service to the Town.  I feel very fortunate to have served my first year with such experienced and committed mentors.

At our first meeting, we welcomed Bob Weinstein and Paul Wisotzky as the two new members of the Board.  Both have been involved with various Town Boards and Committees and are known to many in Town for their hard work and deep commitment to citizen engagement in the issues facing Truro.  I’m particularly appreciative of Bob Weinstein’s 40 years of experience in Town Government, and I am pleased to draw on Paul Wisotzky’s great expertise as an artist and small business owner.  Both bring new energy and perspectives to the Board of Selectmen.

Breon Dunigan was elected as Vice Chair of the Board and I will rely greatly on her knowledge and leadership in the coming year.  Finally, seasoned Select Board Member Jan Worthington will again serve as clerk and continues to be an important voice for Truro’s history as we grapple with modern-day challenges in a way that preserves our unique small-town character.

All of us care deeply about the Town and our neighbors, and we are committed to working hard to address the challenges that will come before us in the next 12 months.  You may disagree with some of the decisions we make or perspectives we bring to our deliberations.  But, know that all of us welcome your input and your engagement in strengthening our community to ensure that Truro remains a small town with opportunity for all who call this special place home.

Sincerely,

Jay Coburn
Chair, Board of Selectmen
jcoburn@truro-ma.gov
(508) 349-7004