Tom King announces run for Rye Select Board
Feb. 7 − To the Editor:
I am seeking re-election to the Rye Select Board on March 12th. My first appointment to a Rye town commission was over two decades ago and I’ve been actively involved in town affairs ever since.
In my campaign three years ago, I emphasized protection of our natural resources, including drinking water, watersheds, and beaches. I have supported the Rye Water District in locating new well sites on townowned conservation land and we are partnering with them as they explore options for water treatment. I have pushed the continued clean-up of Parson’s Creek to protect our watersheds and beaches from avoidable septic contamination. We vigorously and successfully opposed the proposed Pease Air Cargo Facility, which would have significantly increased noise pollution from flight activity over our town, especially at night.
During my tenure we have successfully guided our Town through the pandemic on the path to recovery. My primary goal has been, not to just rebuild, but to rebuild stronger. We prioritized public safety and public works staffing and equipment, renegotiated all three union contracts last year to attract and retain good people, approved equipment modernization plans to ensure our residents get a first-class safety response. To strengthen these departments, I advocated for increasing operational capabilities and succession planning with the hiring of Deputy Police and Fire Chiefs. Road crew staffing was also increased for more robust plowing, paving and storm response. At my urging the Select Board put forth a 2023 warrant article that successfully created an Emergency Management Capital Reserve Fund, which is now the primary resource for recovery from recent major storms.
But we need more than emergency services to make Rye a thriving community in which to live and raise children. In addition to excellent public schools and safety services, we have invested in programs for our residents. I led the effort to create a hybrid funding model to jump start recreation programs until self-funding can catch up. I am closely involved with the state-awarded TAP grant that will re-imagine our town center with sidewalks and bicycle lanes and connect the middle school, public buildings, the new library common and teen center.
As a fellow veteran, I organized last years’ Memorial Day ceremony honoring WWII and Korean War veterans. As both a retired US Air Force officer and airline captain, my approach has been to provide steady leadership, clear decision making, collaboration and respect for others- including those with differing viewpoints. Above all, I bring a balanced, thoughtful approach to problem solving.
Our town is on a good path to a better, more sustainable future and I am proud of the contributions I have made. I hope to continue this important work and ask for your support and your vote on March 12. Thank you.
Tom King Rye