Content submitted by Clare O’Brien. Send Letters to the Editor to news@westfordcat.org.
I am writing to express my support for Tom Clay as a candidate for Westford’s Board of Selectmen. Tom would be a strong and refreshing addition to our board. He has been a member of the Westford School Committee since 2012 and has proven to be both knowledgeable and innovative as he approached his responsibilities as a town representative.
Over the past few months, I have had the opportunity to get to know Tom better as we worked together getting Article 13, “Equitable Pay for our Teachers,” passed at the annual Town Meeting held on March 25. When I first met Tom, I was impressed with the commitment and intelligence he showed, clearly explaining all the data and analysis showing that our teachers are currently being underpaid.
His leadership and management skills were highlighted as he respectfully urged Westford residents to support the issue of closing the pay gap for teachers. I was not surprised to learn that he is currently the CEO of a technology firm and had spent several years in the military as an executive officer.  Tom’s understanding of the need to be transparent and to communicate with ALL Westford residents was evident and encouraging as I witnessed him attend meetings with a variety of groups, taking the time to listen and consider each person’s concerns about the issues at hand.
I admire the forward way of thinking Tom has when it comes to the future of our town. He clearly demonstrates this when he talks about the Westford schools, but I have also learned from him the importance of balancing Westford’s economic development with maintaining the charm and fabric of our town. Tom often talks about the three areas he finds critical to our town’s future success – innovation, economic development and education.
Finally, after watching Tom’s interactions with others around town firsthand, I have seen how Tom’s down-to-earth, friendly demeanor makes a positive impact wherever he goes. Combined with his experience and his understanding of how to get things done, I am confident that we would all be in good hands having him as one of our town leaders. I ask that you consider supporting his candidacy for the Board of Selectmen on May 2.
–Clare O’Brien, MacQuarrie Lane
Westford residents interested in learning more about Tom Clay or wanting to talk to him can contact him through TomClayforWestford.com
