Letter: A vote for Smith is a vote for NYS

Excerpted from Daily News of Newburyport (link)

“To the editor:

Newburyport Youth Services does very important work for our city. It supports children of all ages, capabilities and incomes by providing a secure place for them to develop their interests and skills around school hours. In a time when young people are under many pressures and can struggle with their mental health, NYS is there to help them build self-esteem, self knowledge and good social skills in a recreational environment.

I think Owen Smith is the right choice to represent Ward 5 on the City Council because he is fully committed to moving forward with building a new home for NYS at 59 Low St. Recently, we have seen much sand thrown into the gears of progress in Newburyport at the City Council.

I support Owen because he understands that government should work to meet citizens’ needs economically and efficiently. A home for NYS is an urgent city need that calls for action, not dithering, and Owen will be dedicated to getting this project built.

Additionally, Owen is trained in civil engineering and will be attentive to the safety issues that a newly built NYS center will bring to Low Street. He is knowledgeable about safe street design and will make sure that these concerns are addressed in the planning. He is keenly aware of how project delays can be costly to tax payers and that good planning saves money.

In sum, I recommend Owen Smith to the voters of Ward 5 because, as a father of young children, he will be a capable advocate for meeting the needs of your children. He is well trained in civil engineering and good government procedures and will bring this valuable background to the City Council. He will be an asset for your ward and the city.”

LESLIE ECKHOLDT

Newburyport