I want to thank all those who have opened their doors to me when I’ve knocked, read my campaign materials, and tuned in to the Candidates Forum. I really appreciate your engagement with the issues at stake in this election and your concern for the long-term health and prosperity of our Town.
For those of you who do not know me personally, I’d like to tell you a little more about my working style and values, so that you understand what you will be getting if you vote for me for Town Council.
I am a committed, hard worker. Just ask anyone who served with me on the Environment Committee.
I get results. When I sign on to a project, I am persistent and creative about making it a success. We achieved a lot when I was Chair of the Environment Committee, including the native canopy tree giveaway program, the quiet hours, and the Land Conservation Program.
I am collegial. I welcome different points of view and honor volunteer commitment. After one Environment Committee meeting, a new member asked me why I had to listen to everyone’s opinions instead of just telling them what to do. Dictating from above is not my style.
I have a positive outlook. I look for the best in people, rather than assuming the worst about their motives. If someone has a good idea, I do all that I can to help that person bring it about. I will not allow petty politics to obstruct progress for the Town.
I am a lawyer, with a legal skill-set. I am an effective speaker, writer, and advocate. I am not afraid to dig into the weeds, like I did when conducting a review of the Town’s water ordinance and researching tax regulations for the Land Conservation Program.
I know how to forge alliances with government and business to bring about change for the good of the community, for example when I helped the arts community secure work space at highly-sought-after decommissioned military bases in California.
Here are my essential values as I look forward to serving the Town over the next two years:
I will defend the special qualities of the Town against development at our borders, by working for a better Purple Line, preserving the buffer zones between our Town and Bethesda, and increasing open space in our interior for the enjoyment of our residents.
I will support programs that are environmentally-responsible, making our community more sustainable and safer for ourselves, our children, and our pets.
I will look for ways to strengthen our Town’s tradition of neighborly fun and engagement, involving all of our residents.
I will conduct Town business with civility, respect, and openness toward my fellow residents and Town staff.
I would be honored to have your vote.
Vicky Taplin