To the Editor:

When residents seek a position on a local board, the first thing I want to say is, “Thank you.” Thank you for volunteering what could be a substantial amount of time. The first question I want to ask is, “Why? What motivates you for this humble commitment?” One thing I know, as a Planning Board candidate, Steve Kokkins has nothing to gain outside of his selfless motivation to be a vigilant custodian of our community. He has no conflicts of interest in serving the Planning Board; he is pure. Steve Kokkins respects all opinions and provides a voice of reason that is balanced and civilized.

Though I’ve only lived here about four years, I have been coming here for nearly nine years. I moved from a lovely town that made a wrong turn at the crossroads of development, forever altering its character. I guess you could say I’ve, “seen the writing on the wall.”

The gateways of Marion are also at a critical stage of the crossroads of development. And as uncomfortable as many of us are with change, growth is an inevitable evolution of any desirable area. It is a healthy byproduct of a thriving community. However, we need to be vigilant with whom we empower to be guardians of this delicate process. Intelligent and thoughtful, Steve Kokkins is a person in whom I can safely place my confidence for the future of our lovely village. I trust Steve Kokkins will honestly navigate a course of responsible development in keeping with the character of Marion.

The Planning Board needs a person with experience, dedication and integrity. Steve Kokkins can devote the time to work diligently toward our collective goals. As caretakers of Marion, it is our turn to maintain our historic character and protect our beautiful environment for the generations to come. Steve Kokkins will effectively champion this effort.

Please join me in voting for Steve Kokkins, Planning Board candidate, on Friday, May 13th.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Diane Kelley, Marion