Registered engineer. Former Director of Marion Emergency Services (which he helped to found), and of Marion Emergency Management. Nuclear Ship Superintendent at General Dynamics. Certified EMT.

It's a wonder Selectman candidate W. Dale Jones ever has time to sleep.

Now that he's no longer working the 7 p.m - 11 a.m. shift at Marion EMS, Jones feels like he has a little too much free time on his hands. What's a better to spend it than on one of the few positions he hasn't yet held in Marion: Selectman.

Jones' first priority as a selectman would be to tackle Marion's wastewater treatment plant.  The plant is dealing with unresolved licensing issues and changes in wastewater discharge requirements. Previously a chief engineer at a wastewater treatment plant that he helped install (and owner of a Grade 6 Wastewater Treatment Operator license), Jones says the experience he brings will be invaluable in the coming years. "I've worked with the Environmental Protection Agency in the past, I know how to work with them," he explained.

His method of attack would be to work with the wastewater plant personnel, the head of the Department of Public Works, and state and federal representatives to reach the best conclusion. "Operation of the wastewater plant ties into taxation and keeping the town affordable. We need to do this right."

He's confident that he can keep a tight rein on finances and town budgeting. As it turns out, amongst his other positions, Jones was also the head of the Police Department Building Committee. "We brought the new police station in on time and under budget," he emphasized.

He noted that communication on town budgets would also be expected during his tenure as selectman. "I'd make sure all department heads meet and work together to plan the capital operating budgets."

Jones moved to Marion 40 years ago. As he tells it, "I was looking for a nice place to raise a family, with a good school system." He raised two sons in town, who attended Sippican School and Old Rochester Regional.

"I'm not here to change things, but we need to keep this a nice place to live," he said.