My name is Terry Abrams, and I am a candidate for the Rockport Budget Committee in the June 9 election.

While I am a relatively new full-time resident of Rockport, this community has been part of my life for more than 20 years. Before retiring from full-time college teaching, I visited Rockport annually and came to value the character, beauty, and sense of community that make this town special.

Upon retiring, I chose to make Rockport my permanent home.

During my academic career, I served as a tenured faculty member and chair of a digital media arts program, where I managed a multi-million dollar budget that included faculty salaries, advanced technology, equipment, supplies, and part-time employees. That experience taught me the importance of fiscal responsibility, careful planning, transparency, and collaborative decision-making. I also operate my own business selling fine art photographs, conducting photography workshops and photographic consulting.

I currently serve on the Rockport Parks Committee and the Rockport Library Foundation Board. In both roles, my approach to committee work is to have an open mind and to bring people together to solve problems constructively. I have learned to look for creative solutions and to value multiple perspectives.

Local government works best when residents feel heard and respected. It is important to me that all residents who wish to participate have the opportunity to provide input, and that decisions reflect thoughtful consideration of a wide range of viewpoints.

I would be honored to serve the people of Rockport on the Budget Committee and respectfully ask for your vote on June 9.

Terry Abrams lives in Rockport