I am very thankful to all those who are willing to be on the Camden Select Board. The position is known as a thankless, unpaid, challenging position, so hats off with, much gratitude for those so generous with their  time, expertise, and willingness to serve our community.

Thank you to the town of Camden for showcasing all those running for the position. Every single candidate has something important to offer. I appreciated both Bobbi’s and Chris’s ideas on adding value to our town by improving/expanding the Snow Bowl and Tannery park, as well as each one’s vision for creating a stronger, more vibrant and diverse community, where all voices are heard and respected.

I went with the intention to listen for a tone of leadership and collaboration.

 I understand the allure of a concise hard no, or clear, yes only answer. However, living on the rocky coast of Maine, we all know that nothing in nature or human nature for that matter,  grows in a straight line or is rock solid. 

I believe true collaborative leadership must allow for flexibility, attending respectfully to all aspects of the situation. I felt that both Geoff and Sara demonstrated these qualities.

All the candidates referenced a lack of or a perceived lack of transparency within the Select Board. Sara took the time to explain why that has come to be and how she would work with fixing it. She has a plan to implement. 

Geoff took the time to explain the confusion around why the parking issue is complicated, and why the Select Board made the decision they did. He also offered solutions for getting to a more satisfying outcome.

 I feel strongly that it is not enough to want  a better community, we need visionary leaders that know how to create it. We need leaders that find solutions rather than lean into blame. 

The final question to the group was about what they want for Camden. All agreed they wanted less divisiveness. Sara led the pack with this question though, rather than saying what she wanted less of, she said what wants more of: Collegiate Collaboration.  

I feel both Geoff and Sara stand out as thoughtful, visionary, positive leaders and I will support them as our Select Board members.

Kate McMorrow lives in Camden