We all know how poorly the Strand project has been handled.
Certainly, we should never undertake a project of this magnitude without knowing exactly why what it will accomplish and communicating that clearly to the community. That a project is being largely funded by grants does not mean it is “free.” And even if it were, that does not mean it is worthwhile.
But once the Strand project was underway, our leaders needed to do a great deal more to make sure it satisfied the contractual requirements before they signed off on completion and payment. That did not happen here, and months after waivers were signed and payment authorized, citizens who were paying attention blew the whistle. Not only was the project not completed as required, but significant aspects were not completed at all.
Sadly, this is more than a little reminiscent of the hiring last year of the previous Town Manager, who, after a Google search by citizens who were paying attention, was demonstrated to be a completely unacceptable choice.
Because of the hard work of one Commissioner, regulators have been brought to the table to compel the contractor to correct several major flaws in the Strand project, and at least one contractual violation has given us some leverage. But the prior sign-off and payments have hobbled the Town’s ability to now make sure the project is completed satisfactorily.
If I am elected, my first priority will be to work with the other Commissioners and town counsel to make sure we have done all we still can do to properly complete the Strand project, using whatever leverage we still have, including any legal claims that have not been waived.
