Leo Blair and I were first elected selectmen five years ago. The energy he brought to the Board of Selectmen is hard to describe. During his year as chairman, all five members could point to a long list of accomplishments achieved by working together. I know Leo will share credit for these with all members. He played a key role in each one.
Having come into office on the heels of a failed override, the budget was balanced and there hasn’t been an operating override since. Chris Ashley was recruited to lead a team that delivered a town center sewer system after decades of discussion. Leo’s ability to bring people together helped get the town’s approval of the project. He is an idea guy. HEAC was his idea and was implemented with input from the entire BOS. Leo is also a doer. When National Grid wanted permission to run a gas line down Oak Hill Road to Ayer Road, Leo ensured the line ran past the schools. Much of our fuel cost savings is because the schools could convert to natural gas. The BOS endorsed the Bowers Brook project providing 42 units of affordable senior housing. The long vacant old library was put back in use; the cable committee finally had a home and the Veteran’s Affairs office was handicap accessible. Local legislation was initiated so the General Store and Grapevine could sell beer and wine.
Leo should be given the bulk of the credit for looking out for the residents during the 2008 ice storm. He relentlessly pushed National Grid to restore power. When an elderly resident came into the selectmen’s office literally crying for help getting power restored, Leo consoled her and left no stone unturned in helping her. I recall one meeting we had at the police station where Leo was ready to have a cruiser pick up the line crew foreman to make sure the crews we had were being effectively used.
I’m voting for Leo Blair and urge all other Harvard voters to join with me in returning Leo to the BOS.
Ron Ricci, selectman
East Bare Hill Road
