It now appears that Belmont will have a general election contest for the next state representative.

Tommasina Anne Olson of Bay State Road and a Belmont Town Meeting member announced that she will be seeking the Republican nomination for state representative for the 24^th Middlesex District.

"I am a firm believer that government should be open and transparent.  I believe that our government, both state and local, can provide for the common good without excess taxes and waste," said Olson, who also sits on the Belmont Economic Development Committee.

"On your behalf, I look forward to restoring balance to Beacon Hill," she said.

After last year's state redistricting, the new district comprises all of Belmont, as well as neighboring precincts 11-1 and 11-3 in Cambridge and 4, 8,10,12, 14 in Arlington.

Currently Bobby Reardon of Van Ness Road is actively seeking the Democrat nomination for the seat last held by Will Brownsberger who left the position after winning a special election to become state senator. 

"Politicians too often are politicians first and good citizens second. I am proud to tell you that I will be just the opposite," said Olson.  

"Just like you I wake up every morning and go to work. Just like you I have to balance my family life with my professional life. And sadly, too often, along with you, I share the same frustration that my hard earned money is spent by a state government that is out of touch with its people," she said.

"Belmont, Arlington, and Cambridge are great places to live. I would love the opportunity to advocate and serve as your State Representative from the 24th Middlesex," she said.