Published in the March 3, 2016 edition
By BOB TUROSZ
NORTH READING — Jonathan P. Cody pulled nomination papers last week to run for Community Planning Commission, stepping up to run for the three year term being vacated by veteran Planner Patricia Romeo.
Romeo decided it’s time to step down from the CPC after 23 years of service.
“I did it because I wanted to make a difference and I hope I did. I would like to continue but I feel it’s time for some of the younger people in town to do their part and take a little more interest and possession of their town.
“It’s a rewarding experience, in the end, to know you have contributed. I encourage people to devote a little more time on behalf of the future.”
Romeo said she looks forward to continuing on the Historical Commission and the Historical Society, especially in educating local school children about the town’s historic heritage.
Cody has been a member of the Conservation Commission for 10 years and said he decided to run for CPC because he has expertise to share because of his professional interests in real estate and development and he wants to volunteer to serve the town. A North Reading native, Cody intends to remain on the ConCom because he knows their work is important, also.
“I enjoy being a volunteer in town and I’m looking for the opportunity to have more of an impact,” he said. “I’d like to be able to drive by something and see that I had a hand in it.”
Cody’s decision makes him the eighth candidate to declare for the town’s May 3 annual election, not including Michael Prisco, who announced for re–election as a Selectmen in January but subsequently withdrew.
Other names on the ballot
Incumbent Selectmen Chairman Robert Mauceri announced his intention to seek another term back in January. Last week, Richard Wallner, Chairman of the Economic Development Committee, stepped up and pulled nomination papers for the seat being vacated by Prisco.
Mel Webster and Janene Imbriano, both incumbents, have pulled papers for re–election for the School Committee. Also in the race for the school board: challenger Laina Simone.
Incumbent Town Moderator John Murphy is in the hunt and unopposed for an additional one year term as Moderator.
Warren Pearce is seeking re–election to the other three–year term up for renewal on the CPC.
There are no seats on the North Reading Housing Authority up for renewal in this election cycle.
To have one’s name on the May 3 ballot, a candidate must obtain nomination papers from the town clerk’s office and return them with the signatures of at least 50 registered voters by 5 p.m. on March 15. It is strongly suggested candidates collect and submit more than the required minimum of 50 signatures; 75 is a better goal.
