Gibson to run for fifth term against Boudo

Date: 9/15/2009

By Katelyn Gendron

Reminder Assistant Editor



WEST SPRINGFIELD -- Mayor Edward Gibson believes that his mayoral responsibilities come first and campaigning second.

He told Reminder Publications that mayoral priorities in light of the economic downturn prevented him from announcing his bid for re-election sooner than Sept. 10.

With only two candidates in the mayoral race this election cycle, Gibson will not face a preliminary election as he did two years prior; he will move straight to the November ballot against Town Councilor Paul Boudo.

"Over the nine years that I've been mayor, there hasn't been too much sunshine but I look at it as the glass is half full [even though] there will be difficult decisions to be made," Gibson said. "I've been used to the tough decisions and I'm definitely up for it for the next two years."

In his official announcement for re-election he said, "West Springfield needs someone who can manage this great community through challenging financial times. We need someone who is committed to all the residents of this town and can make tough decisions that will benefit the town now and in the future. I am that mayor."

He noted his strong educational background, a master's degree in business administration, as well as his adherence to sound fiscal management as key components to a successful mayoral tenure.

"The personal traits, which people identify with me, honesty, integrity, commitment, fiscal responsibility and family values, are as pertinent in this election as they have been in the previous four elections ... My strong financial background will allow me to continue to steer West Springfield through this extremely difficult fiscal crisis," Gibson said.

He explained that the next several years will change how services are funded and offered to residents, such as the use of grant monies. Gibson said that there will be a lot of "out of the box" thinking to ensure that services are delivered to residents.

He noted that town finances are solid at the moment with a healthy stabilization fund but that more cost-cutting measures will be needed.

Gibson added that he has been able to save taxpayers millions by renegotiating employees' health insurance plans and the privatization of trash collection. He explained that budgeting for the future in light of increasing operational expenses and declining state aid is essential to the town's long-term viability.

Savings has allowed for infrastructure repairs and maintenance upgrades, Gibson noted. He said plans for additional repairs and upgrades include a classroom addition at Tatham Elementary School and modernization of the high school.

"My decisions are always based on what I believe is in the best interests of the town as a whole," Gibson said. "In doing so I am sure it does not please everyone in the process. Unfortunately, I fully understand this comes with the responsibility you have bestowed upon me as your mayor. For those folks I may have upset, I assure you it was not a personal offense, but it was the right decision for the betterment of the community we all live in."

Boudo declined to speak with Reminder Publications for this article.