Last modified: Monday, March 24, 2008 1:00 AM EDT GUEST COLUMN: Keep Rehoboth on course of reform BY CHRIS MORRA / The election on April 7 will be crucial in our effort to facilitate reform. The current board of selectmen, along with several members of other town boards, are working diligently toward correcting questionable past practices. It is vital that we continue our revision and reform in other areas of town government as well. We are addressing our school system and the financial issues within that system. We will work together to make our class sizes smaller, and fill the shortage of teachers needed in K-8 to provide excellence in education. Rehoboth is the place where public education was founded; let's not forget that. Our community must come together in this effort to revitalize our town and our schools. Volunteerism is a valuable resource that has been under- utilized. Citizens who are able and available are encouraged to get involved. Financial priorities must be intelligently and effectively chosen. The board of selectmen has removed some $80,000 from the upcoming warrant of unnecessary yet recommended articles. In order that Rehoboth become fiscally responsible we must get back to basics, only buy what we need, and stop all of the uncontrolled, unwarranted spending. Let's have a smart budget, let's spend on what is right and where it counts, not on what is popular or beneficial to a chosen few. It is sometimes hard to say no, but we must be cost-effective and prudent for all. We are facing very difficult financial times. Steve Martin has decided not to seek reelection to the board of selectmen. I would like to personally thank Mr. Martin for his steadfast service and dedication to our community. He has always been forthright, sincere, and a true giver to our community. I have the utmost respect and admiration for him. Steve and I share common goals for Rehoboth and continue our optimism for revitalizing interest in its preservation. He will remain active and visible in town, reaching out to those in need through his community organization, "Helping Hands." Ken Foley is the Independent Reform candidate for selectman. Ken is a pillar in our community and is loyal to the values that we all hold dear. He has a wonderful family that has been part of Rehoboth for decades. He owns and operates Francis Farm, a fine example of his vision, and his dedication to preservation. I know from working with Ken on the gravel committee that he is knowledgeable, respectful, courteous, and has the ability to get to the bottom of any issue. As vice chairman of the conservation commission he always demonstrates his professionalism and dedication to the town. Ken Foley supports the reform initiatives already in place. He also seeks to implement effective plans to slow growth and streamline our finances to keep our taxes low while keeping our services strong. By working together there is no problem we cannot solve. CHRISTOPHER P. MORRA is a Rehoboth selectman.