Friends, Neighbors, Residents:
As if the job I have isn’t hard enough, I’ve decided to go for an even harder one: I am running for Smitty’s seat as the 3rd Berkshire representative for Berkshire County.
My platform will consist of the following:
- I will propose a suite of initiatives to lower the burden of property taxes on homeowners.
- I will continue my focus on environmental stewardship.
- I will promote reconciliation with the Mohican nation.
- I will embrace specific proposals that revolutionize small towns’ ability to invest in infrastructure and schools.
- I will advocate for housing initiatives, specifically small home special rental options for young adults and seniors, and homeownership solutions for working families.
- I will work with colleagues in the delegation to craft a bold economic plan for the Housatonic River Valley, modeled after the “Massachusetts Miracle” that reimagined the economy of the Merrimack River.
You would think being a state rep is a big deal, and it is. But let’s face it: it’s also a hard slog. You start off in a bullpen with other newly elected representatives. You get exactly one staffer, whose primary job will be to answer the phone and track down solutions to constituent problems. My point is the next rep is largely on their own in the State House. The person you elect had better have a command of the issues, a strong set of financial skills, and the ability to draft legislation to advance the County’s interests. Your next representative has to be familiar with Boston, how it works, how to build consensus, how to get things done. This person has to be the hardest working person you know, has to be smart, motivated, and passionate about our beautiful little corner of the world.
During my tenure as a Selectman, I have approached every decision through a single lens: what’s best, on balance, for the people of Stockbridge. Which brings me to the theme of my campaign: I have your back.
It’s the honor of a lifetime to serve you, in whatever capacity you choose.
In a few days, I will have https://www.patrickwhiteberkshires.com set up. Please check it out the week of February 19th!
Warmly,
Patrick White