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Agnew not to run for Slectman in April 2011

December 8, 2010 by Greg Agnew

Dear Friends, Family, and residents of Westwood,

During my first attempt to lead Westwood residents to a brighter future, I was ultimately not successful. The process was physically draining, very time-consuming, and left little time to myself to enjoy the simple pleasures in life. With that being said, I can’t deny that I highly enjoyed the experience, had fun, and very much looked forward to challenging myself again by running for elected office in the future.

The April 2008 elections were, in my mind, a very good litmus test of how the town would look three years from then. Now, in 2010, with that three-year mark fast approaching, we are left to wonder why Westwood Station has yet to move an inch, while all of our property taxes have risen miles. April 2008 told many of us that the town of Westwood was going to continue in the direction it had been traveling for decades before. The voters decided that it was better to send many candidates to Town Hall who lacked the professional skill sets, vision, and youthful presence and energy that we clearly needed in order to reach a successful outcome with the University Avenue property.

During the better part of 2010, I had the urge many times to vigorously pursue my goal of righting the situation for all of us, by running for Selectman again, and presenting new and creative strategies that I knew could improve the town immediately, without relying on the “all eggs in one basket” approach (and we know where that’s gotten us). None of us ever wanted Westwood Station to fail like it has, since the impact of losing all of the once occupied commercial spaces was a hit to all of us. The wrong thing to do is to place the blame on one, or more elected bodies in the town. The solution is to come together, create ideas, present successful strategies, and invent a compromise that will benefit us all, rather than to pander to one or more groups of people in town.

We need motivated, excited, intelligent, and creative people to step up to the plate, and make a difference by including all residents that live in town. We need a comprehensive effort, by all of our voters, to encourage their neighbors, friends, family, and co-workers to rise to the occasion, try something new, and run for office. It’s time for us to put our heads together, and focus on the one thing that we all have in common: protecting our future in Westwood. We all have an interest in helping keep the property taxes lower, to include the ideas of those who have been silenced in the past, to demand governmental transparency, and to break the cycle of leaders who struggle to communicate with their fellow citizens.

It is with great displeasure that I’m announcing to you today that I will not be considered as a candidate for Selectman in Westwood for the 2011 Election cycle. I simply don’t have the time to run the type of campaign that I am used to running, which is a successful one. I’ve thought for years that when December 2010 rolled around, I’d be ready to go. But, I’m not. I have too many family members, too many employees, and too many friends that rely on me every day, and I simply can’t add another item to my plate. I’m sorry to those who wanted to be a part of my team, and to those who have cheered me on in the past, supporting my aspirations for a 2011 victory. However, this does not mean that I’m fading away, never to be heard from again.

I wish everyone the very best Christmas and Holiday Season, and I sincerely hope each registered Westwood resident can get out to vote in April 2011.

Best Wishes,

Greg Agnew

Posted in Statements | Tagged Elections 2011, Greg Agnew, Phil Shapiro, Selectman, Westwood | Leave a Comment »

Agnew quoted in Boston Globe

August 18, 2010 by Greg Agnew

In the Sunday Boston Globe, published on August 15, 2010, Michelle Morgan Bolton, Globe Correspondent for the Westwood/Dedham areas, was charged with the assignment of writing a story to highlight Westwood’s second attempt since 1987 to re-write its Town Charter. Sparking this article were numerous suggested changes in 2009 to the charter by Westwood residents Michael F. Walsh (current State Senate Candidate), David Feyler, Jason Lee, and Myself.

My attempt to change the way we vote in Westwood garnered the most vocal support at a town meeting in early 2009, when I proposed that we change Town Election day to Saturday, instead of Tuesday, citing that it was safer for both children, and their parents, to vote on Saturday. This move could also boost participation almost 20%, providing people with more time to vote on the weekends, when they don’t have to worry about getting to work on time after voting on a Tuesday, or having to rush home from work in order to beat the early evening poll closures. In the end, the petition was voted down, but not without discussion. Selectman Pat Ahearn was concerned that the move may bar certain individuals (such as Orthodox Jews) from voting on Saturday, since their religious obligations prevent them from using modern technology (such as cars, as a mode of transportation) on Saturdays.

However, during my research for this proposal, I found that out of all of the residents in Westwood, only a select few observed strict Jewish practices and were able to vote via absentee ballot, just like many of our troops fighting overseas who reside in Westwood. I even took the time to speak with Jewish residents, who all agreed with my petition and supported my cause. I also called the Westwood Council on Aging to make sure that the vans that transported seniors to and from the polls would still run at no additional cost to the town. All my bases were covered, however, so I was not necessarily unhappy with the outcome.

During my petition’s journey to the floor of town meeting, I was scheduled to appear in front of the Financial Commission to state my case in order for them to suggest a “no” or “yes” vote in their annual report. Even though my petition, and several others had absolutely nothing to do with the town’s finances, it’s still a common practice for some reason. I acknowledge that the move to voting on Saturday could slightly more (having to pay poll workers and the Town Clerk etc…), it was well worth it. Due to a scheduling conflict, I was unable to make the presentation to the FinCom, and I charged Michael F. Walsh to speak on my behalf. Although Michael spoke well, my name was publicly (as I was told) berated due to my decision to focus on my then studies at Assumption College.

In the end, I was not disappointed with the decision of the town not to support my petition, rather, I was unhappy with the way I was treated.

I was proud that I not only tried (once again) to make a difference at such a young age, but I was also proud that I garnered some support from old friends, and some new ones. This article in the Globe only further motivates me to one day run again for public office, and to make my best attempt every day to promote meaningful solutions to complex problems we face. Perhaps my attempt, in addition to many others’ attempts since 1987, who tried to move Westwood in a meaningful direction, sparked a discussion, that eventually led to the forming of the Charter Commission.

And that, I too can say, I’m very proud of.

For the full article: http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2010/08/15/westwood_ready_to_start_updating_charter/

Posted in News | Leave a Comment »

Greg Agnew mentioned on Blue Mass Group

June 10, 2010 by Greg Agnew

While it’s not the most talked-about article about myself, I was given a mention by Blue Mass Group user mthomsondem concerning my position as Campaign Manager within the Dunkelbarger for Congress Committee:

Why Dunkelbarger is going to win in November

I’m still looking forward to supporting Dunkelbarger in the November Election. Mac is just Harmony Wu’s last minute replacement, someone who the Progressives think will oust the right-leaning Lynch and his machine.

Even though Phil Dunkelbarger didn’t do so well in his 2006 attempt, 2010 looks a lot different. Here are a few things to consider:

1. Dunk’s campaign website is completely overhauled: more professional, informative, and interactive. His 2006 site was awful, and it provided no avenue for contact and action.

2. Phil hired one of Massachusetts’ youngest Campaign Managers, Greg Agnew, who has been leading candidates to victory since early 2007, when he was only 20. The kid has a lot to learn, but has impressed a ton of people, and has turned skeptics into believers from Worcester, all the way to Boston.

3. He’s not just another “Democrat.” Phil’s Independent candidacy is more reflective of his views, not of his strategy. Take a look at Phil’s positions on his website, they’re all mostly progressive, liberal, therefore, “Democrat.” However, he’s looking to cut the military budget, and promoting economic growth by rebuilding in Massachusetts, not overseas. His ideas aren’t conservative or liberal, they’re just plain Phil.

4. He has more ground support than Mac and Lynch combined. Over 200 people on the ground (as I’ve witnessed) almost every two weeks, gathering signatures and pulling in new volunteers and money.

5. Phil’s staff includes people from all walks of political life: former Kennedy and Tierney staffers, grassroots experts, former non-profit directors, they’re all there because they believe in his cause.

Dunk’s established his new way of campaigning for 2010, and it’s not going to be matched. Trust me, I’ve wanted to stray away from him in the beginning, but he’s made a true believer out of a former skeptic.

Thank you, to whomever made that comment, and may the comment be recognized by all of my former skeptics!

In addition, I would like to take this moment to alert you to my personal fundraising appeal for Phil Dunkelbager. His cause is valiant, and his efforts will be unmatched. I hope, that after considering Phil’s candidacy, you will donate to his worthy cause. Donations from residents like you will empower the campaign to move forward and allow Phil to achieve his dream to become our Independent Voice for Main Street, not for Wall Street. Not only do donations help us survive the campaign season, but they allow people like myself to stay employed and pursue their dreams. I thank you for your consideration in advance, and encourage you to speak with Phil personally by emailing him (dunk2010@gmail.com) if that is something you’d be interested in doing.

See the full article: http://bluemassgroup.com/diary/19554/mac-dalessandro-vs-steve-lynch

Posted in News | Tagged Agnew, Congress, Democrat, Dunk, Greg Agnew, Independent, Keith Lepor, MA, Mac D'Alessandro, Phil Dunkelbarger, Stephen Lynch, U.S. Congress, Vernon Harrisson, Westwood | Leave a Comment »

Supporting our Town Clerk Dottie Powers

April 26, 2010 by Greg Agnew

Dear Friends,

In 2007, I was fortunate enough to serve as the Campaign Manager for Dottie Powers, and her campaign for Town Clerk. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those who worked tirelessly, with myself and the Powers family, to attain Dottie’s goal of becoming Westwood’s next Town Clerk.

By choosing me to lead a town-wide effort, Dottie took a chance on someone who had never managed a town-wide campaign before, and she was not let down. Dottie’s intelligent decision is a perfect example of how taking a chance can pay off and produce big results on Election Day.

So, when I go to the polls on Tuesday, April 27, 2010, I will join the former “Team Powers” and over 2,000 residents who supported Dottie three years ago, in voting for a Town Clerk who embodies the core values of a Westwood Resident and Voter. Dottie has continually impressed me with her professionalism, her character, and her leadership skills, which have all contributed to what I call the most effective, informative, and efficient Town Clerk’s office that Westwood has EVER had.

Thank you Dottie for giving me the chance of a lifetime, and for your encouragement when I launched my run for Selectman in 2008. You gave me the confidence to stand up in the face of adversity and declare my intent to help the town of Westwood, just as you have, for almost nothing in return. I hope, that with the support of my former colleagues in 2007, that I can once again run for elected office in the future. We need more passionate people in Town Hall, just like Dottie, dedicated to making a true difference in our community.

Thank You & Best Wishes,

Greg Agnew

Posted in Statements | Tagged Campaign Manager, Dottie Powers, Election, Greg Agnew, MA, Town Clerk, Tuesday April 27 2010, Vote, Westwood | Leave a Comment »

Local Resident to host “Candidate’s Discussion Night”

April 15, 2010 by Greg Agnew

Dear Friends,

Westwood Resident & Author Steven Greffenius will be hosting a “Candidate’s Discussion Night” for voters, candidates, current public officials, and other parties who have a vested interest in Westwood and the surrounding communities.

The purpose of this informal meeting is to further stimulate and discuss the issues surrounding the town of Westwood’s future. Many residents have not had the pleasure of meeting many of the candidates running for contested Public Office here in Westwood, including:

Steve Maggiacomo, School Committee
Carol Lewis, School Committee
Jack O’Brien, School Committee
John Cummings, School Committee

Jason Lee, Sewer Commissioner
Jim Connors, Sewer Commissioner

Interestingly enough, this is also the first time that Westwood will be the home town for a Candidate for Federal Office (U.S. Congress Candidate Phil Dunkelbarger) and for State Office (State Senate Candidate Mike Walsh).

Steven Greffenius

The event will be held at 51 Oriole Rd. in Westwood, MA 02090 from 7:00 pm to roughly 8:30 pm on Tuesday, April 20, 2010. Each resident will have the opportunity to informally meet with other concerned voters in town, in addition to any of the candidates who choose to attend.

This is a great event for all who are also interested in running for Public Office in the future, and for anyone wanting to make an informed choice at the polls on April 27, 2010. I strongly encourage you to make this event a priority, since limited time is available to meet the candidates before the election!

Questions and intentions to attend should be directed to: 781-223-1396 or by email: steveng@techwritepublishing.com.

Best Wishes,

Greg Agnew

Posted in Event Announcements | Tagged Agnew, Candidate's Night, Carol Lewis, Discussion, Dunk 2010, Dunkelbarger, Forum, Greg Agnew, Jack O'Brien, Jason Lee, Jim Connors, John Cummings, Mike Rush, Mike Walsh, Stephen Lynch, Steve Maggiacomo, Steven Greffenius, Walsh, Westwood | 1 Comment »

The Race for Sewer Commissioner

April 14, 2010 by Greg Agnew

As many of you may know, I had pulled papers in early February 2010 to make my run for Sewer Commissioner. I had done so after speaking with outgoing Commissioner David White, who encouraged me to run for the post. As time elapsed, Jason Lee and Jim Connors both decided they would make a run (last-minute mind you) for the same post, which prompted me to drop out of the race, seeing two equally as motivated individuals voice their interest.

Had no one else pulled papers for Sewer Commissioner, I would have gladly served the town well, with integrity, honesty, and a work ethic like no other. However, I was not in a position to spend as much time as I would have liked to on the campaign trail, truly informing the voters about the position, and performing the required research.

As an Eagle Scout, I completed a stream mitigation project in Lowell Woods that increased Purgatory Brook’s flow, allowing the Neponset River Watershed to receive much-needed emergency resources, since the Neponset serves as Westwood’s emergency water supply. I had also worked extensively with the MWRA, completing other necessary water resource projects in the community. As a student at Assumption College, I completed numerous stream studies that encouraged the winter salting crews to decrease the amount of salt used on roadways close to streams where wildlife were present.

Unfortunately, at the League of Women Voters Candidate’s Forum held on April 11, 2010 at the First Parish Church hall in Westwood, Sewer Commissioner Candidates Jason Lee and Jim Connors both stated they did not know the current rates for the 2010 year. Both candidates also continually repeated that they would strive to keep the current rates as low as possible, but never stated any relevant experience that makes them qualified to serve as Sewer Commissioner. I found these statements to be both disturbing, and disappointing, to someone like me, who values public service and qualified leadership.

Just to let everyone know, One Cubic Foot (CCF) of water is equal to about 7.5 gallons of water, or 100 cubic feet is about 750 gallons of water. This year, residences are charged about $4.09 per extra CCF used, if the minimum is exceeded, which is around 500 cubic feet of water every quarter, if you have the typical 5/8″ meter. On average, if you use the minimum amount of water, or under, you’ll pay about 29.61 every quarter, which is not too bad. More information on your water rates can be found on the DWWD Website.

During the past two historic rain storms, Westwood residents learned the hard way that our Sewer System was not quite as adequately prepared to handle the rain totals, but performed better than most towns in the surrounding area. Flooding occurred in many homes (including twice in my own), family heirlooms were destroyed in water, and property damage was drastic. Most learned that the typical homeowner’s insurance yielded a big fat zero to those affected by the rain, unless you were in a designated flood zone.

As you can see, I would have been adequately prepared for both the Forum, and for encounters with the tough questions, having the necessary experience in both College, and in High School, having dealt with water (and the environment) for most of my life. I hope all of the voters on Tuesday, April 27, 2010, take a long, hard look at the two candidates for Sewer Commissioner, and ask themselves on question: “are any of these candidates qualified, passionate, and informed enough to help control the Sewer System in Westwood?”

Thank You & Best Wishes,

Greg Agnew

Posted in Statements | Tagged Agnew, Flood, Greg Agnew, Jason Lee, Jim Connors, League of Women Voters, MA, Mass, Rain, Sewer Commissioner, Water Rates, Westwood | Leave a Comment »

Introducing the new GregAgnew.com!

April 1, 2010 by Greg Agnew

Welcome to the new GregAgnew.com!

Over the past few years, I’ve experimented with different web platforms, and have consistently changed the theme and design of my website. Now, the time has come to begin the very REAL discussion about the issues facing our town of Westwood, and our great Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

This site is meant to help those who wish to provide Issues, or Solutions to those Issues, either at the Town level, or the State level.

I’ve found that more often than not, politicians and pundits alike, supply the concerned and informed voter with their stances on issues that are not necessarily the top issues on the voter’s minds. Here, at gregagnew.com, I’ll be working with the voters to provide a platform for discussion, and more importantly, work together with the voters to arrive upon concrete solutions for the future.

I sincerely hope you enjoy your visit to my site, and hope that you’ll keep coming back to contribute your thoughts and ideas to the discussion.

Thank You and Best Wishes,