David M. Douglass Jr.
Occupation: Sales and Marketing, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co.
Times Record: Why are you running for office?
David Douglass: I have no agenda for seeking reelection; I’m not dissatisfied with the direction of the town. I enjoy the work in assuring Topsham continues to be the town we all chose as home for our families and want to assure the needed pieces are in place for that.
Ruth A. Lyons
DD: 1) State Revenue Sharing — Lawmakers in Augusta, continue to raid money from communities throughout the state. This year alone Topsham had over $656,000 withheld in Revenue Sharing so the State could support their spending practices. This money comes from a portion of sales tax collected within a community. This revenue is important for upkeep of roads due to higher traffic, increased use of Police and Fire Departments around commercial areas, building inspections, environmental concerns etc. This lost revenue accounts for around 7.5 percent of Topsham’s operating expenses which is now placed on the backs of all Topsham taxpayers
2) Strategic Planning — Forward thinking for Topsham’s short- and long-term future with open and honest feedback between staff and Board of Selectman
3) Government Participation — Reaching out to the citizens of Topsham for a greater sense of expectations. That outreach will come in several different formats ranging from neighborhood meetings to various social media platforms
TR: What skills or strengths do you bring to office?
DD: Preparation, I don’t simply show up to meetings without investing time researching, listening, giving thought and understanding all items or situations presented.
I also have no hesitation in asking clarifying questions to assure I understand what’s being asked and assuring all aspects are vetted before a decision is made.
TR: Why should voters choose you?
DD: I am the one candidate who will continue to actively participate in the discussions and budget issues that shape our town; I will ask the questions citizens want and need to hear asked. They can be assured I will continue to put in the extra time and effort to make sure I am prepared and understand all issues before me for consideration.
The top priority for me as a Selectman is to work to make sure Topsham continues to be the Town we have worked to create now and in the future. Age: In my 60s Occupation: Retired this year from Town Clerk of Topsham
Times Record: Why are you running for office?
Ruth Lyons: I feel I can contribute in a positive way with the decisions that need to be made. I would like to continue to serve the community and the citizens that I care about.
TR: What are the top three issues you’ll have to deal with if elected?
RL: Delivering quality service with in the budget established. Thoughtful ideas in planning for future budgets such as capital expenditure planning. Determining what the community envisions for the future of it’s town. Maintain our independence, as much as we can, from other governmental entities.
TR: What skills or strengths do you bring to office?
RL: I am a strong communicator with the citizens of Topsham. I have many years of experience with the private sector as well as a public servant. I have many years of experience in management and budgeting. I would give careful and thoughtful consideration to issues coming before the Board. I will make decisions that is best for the community with imput from the citizens.
TR: Why should voters choose you?
RL: I have served on many boards and committees but have never ran for political office.
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