Election Day is less than two weeks away, and I’m looking forward to welcoming our new Amherst Town Councilors and state elected leaders who have pledged to safeguard our community, and advocate on behalf of the issues that matter to us.
I typically take a neutral position on local political candidates because I believe many of them are highly qualified individuals with the experience, dedication, and values needed to do a fine job in elected office. But I’m breaking with my usual hands-off public stance to make an exception in the case of Andrew Steinberg, running for one of three at-large positions on Amherst’s new Town Council. Mr. Steinberg is the kind of public servant who comes along once every generation, and I am proud to endorse him.
Andy had a fulfilling 26-year career as executive director of Western Massachusetts Legal Services (WMLS), which provides free legal help for low-income individuals with housing, disability, domestic violence, and other important needs. After leaving WMLS in 2006, he continued serving Amherst directly through multiple volunteer terms on the Finance Committee and then the Select Board. As I have gotten to work with Andy, I’ve witnessed his leadership on many issues and appreciate his thoughtful analysis and detailed knowledge, especially around our public schools and town budgets. He is well respected in our community for good reason, and will be a strong asset as we transition into our new form of local government.
Please join me on Nov. 6th in voting for Andrew Steinberg for Amherst Councilor At-Large.
Anastasia Ordonez,
Amherst School Committee
Amherst