Dear Editor,

I write to support the re-election of Bill Straus for State Representative.

Having observed Bill in office for over 30 years, I have seen his commitment and hard work for the communities he serves. I have also seen the respect he’s earned within the legislature, which is why he was named Chair of the House Transportation Committee.

His leadership on this key committee puts him at the center of critical infrastructure issues, including replacement of the New Bedford-Fairhaven Bridge and getting real progress on the South Coast Rail. It also places him in the room when budget decisions are being made allowing him to advocate for South Coast needs both large and small.

For example, in addition to large projects like the bridge replacement, he worked to obtain $50,000 for Rochester to conduct a public safety facility planning study; $25,000 for Marion to support building improvements at the Council on Aging Cushman Center; $50,000 for Mattapoisett to make required safety upgrades at the highway department building and more. Local funding grants such as these are important to complete needed projects, and Bill has advocated for many over the years.

Bill has done an excellent job and will continue to do so. I urge everyone to consider supporting Bill Straus for State Representative and giving him your vote.

Thank you,

John Theriault

Mattapoisett