Paul Federici explains bid for selectman

Date: 4/7/2009

I am interested in the position of selectman at this time because I believe that I can make a positive difference in this town. I have a 30-year accounting background, of which 24 years have been spent practicing in East Longmeadow. This experience includes helping businesses of all sizes survive and thrive in today s ever evolving business climate. As a business owner and resident of town, I can look at the challenges and opportunities that East Longmeadow offers from multiple viewpoints. In this economic climate, my experience will serve me well in the position of selectman.

I was born and raised in the Forest Park section of Springfield. I spent many years of my youth in East Longmeadow and I attended every ITAM Vets Chicken Barbecue from as early as I can remember until I was married. I am a graduate of Cathedral High School and Western New England College. My wife of 26 years, Darlene, is a realtor with the East Longmeadow office of Landmark Realtors. We have three children. We moved into East Longmeadow in 1996 and bought a home on Hampden Road that was built in 1831.

My involvement in the community has included the Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of East Longmeadow. I have been the treasurer and past president of the Rotary Club and am also a Paul Harris Award recipient. Many who attend our Rotary Club Summer Concert Series at the high school will know me as the hot dog and ice cream guy at each concert.

I am also a past foundation bookkeeper and former member of the Board of Directors of the Make A Wish Foundation of Western Massachusetts.

Through this community and business involvement I have developed a good relationship with the Police Chief, the Fire Chief and our superintendent of schools and I know I will be able to work with all the town officials and department heads.

I feel I can bring a professional attitude to the position of selectman. I will always keep in mind that you are voting to put someone in office who will put this town and its business first. I know from experience it is possible to have constructive disagreements and work out equitable solutions while keeping a professional attitude.

I would like to say a few words regarding the split tax rate. I am as in favor of reduced taxes as anyone; however, I do not feel it is an idea that is as cut and dried as it appears. In my dealings with my clients, I have seen businesses of all sizes facing reductions in sales and related reductions in production, increases in federal payroll taxes, increases in state unemployment tax rates, insurance cost increases, utility increases and other operating cost increases being imposed on them. I feel it is a slippery slope to propose property tax changes without examining the long term effect of such a change. As much as I would like a tax reduction, I would not want to drive down Shaker Road and see vacant buildings with local taxpayer jobs having been sent elsewhere within and outside our country due to more business friendly conditions elsewhere.

Finally, I believe that if the taxpayers want change they have to exercise their right to vote. It is the most productive way to be heard.



~Paul Federici

Board of Selectmen candidate