Politics & Government
Selectman Ralph Jones Will Not Seek Reelection
Long time official's retirement from politics means an open seat will be contested at Town Election in April.
In a brief statement sent to Belmont Patch, Belmont Selectman Ralph Jones announced his retirement from the Board when his term ends in April, 2014.
"I will not be a candidate for Selectman in 2014," Jones said in his statement.
Jones' decision to retire from the board will result in an open seat to be filled by the winner of the town election in April.
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Currently Belmont Energy Committee Co-Chair Roger Colton is the only resident to file papers will Belmont Town Clerk Ellen Cushman forming a campaign committee.
It is expected that with Jones' public statement more candidates will get into the race.
Find out what's happening in Belmontwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
"About 25 years ago, I was appointed to the Warrant Committee by Moderator Daniel Needham. Since then, I have had the opportunity to serve on the School Committee, the Warrant Committee, and the Board of Selectmen. It has been a privilege to serve with many dedicated and hard-working citizens on all of these bodies. Belmont is a unique Town, and its character is shaped by the hundreds of citizens who serve in volunteer positions in our government," he said in his written message.
"We in government may not always agree on all issues, but we come together for honest and open conversation about our Town’s future," he noted.
"Belmont government also works because of its dedicated employees. It was my privilege to work with exemplary personnel and department heads. Personally, I enjoyed learning about the details of service delivery by various departments. How services are delivered is the true measure of public policies," Jones said.
"After 25 years, I plan to take more time with my family. Sherry and I have developed a list of places we want to visit, hopefully with children, grandchildren, and friends. Thank you for the opportunity to serve Belmont," he said.
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