Tom Siefert for Shutesbury Select Board
I have known Tom Siefert for several years through his work with various Shutesbury town boards, local progressive groups, and in the broader community. I know him to be a thoughtful, compassionate, and principled person who is genuinely committed to strengthening our town.
I first met Tom when he attended a Conservation Commission public hearing and impressed many with his deep understanding of complex environmental regulations. That moment reflected something I’ve seen consistently since: Tom does his homework. He listens carefully, thinks critically, and approaches issues with both rigor and humility.
Tom brings a rare combination of intellectual depth and practical judgment. He is detail-oriented and grounded in progressive values. He cares deeply about environmental stewardship, affordability, and building a town government that is welcoming, inclusive, and accountable. He also understands the importance of transparent and fair democratic processes that support public engagement and freedom of expression.
Tom has served on several town boards and has put in the time to attend Select Board and other town meetings, developing a strong, firsthand grasp of the challenges facing Shutesbury. At a moment when we are confronting assaults on our democracy, climate change pressures, rising costs, and the needs of an aging population, we need leadership that is both informed and forward-looking.
Tom is not a long-standing insider tied to past practices. He brings fresh perspective, independence, and the capacity to help guide Shutesbury into its next chapter.
Our town needs more diversity in its town government — in background, in experience, and in viewpoint. Tom Siefert brings that perspective, and I strongly support his candidacy for Select Board.
Miriam DeFant
Shutesbury