Interview with Lara Stone

Lara: Examples all seem to come back to how people are cutting costs or saving money. I had several residents share how they have begun to increase their recycling each week so they can cut down on purchasing the orange Pay-As-You-Throw bags in Dartmouth. Increasing the number of blue bins filled each week reduces trash and costs residents and the town less. People have shared with me, and the library has confirmed, that they check books out instead of purchasing them. There is a dramatic increase in circulation during these tough times. Patrons take out more books, rent more movies and use library services when belts need tightening. I know several families where one partner has lost a job and they have had to make critical changes in their family life -- putting a house on the market, borrowing money from family, selling a business or changing schools for their children. Many residents have said that while they believe we may need to increase our tax base in Dartmouth eventually, they hope that town leaders will not look to do it now. A tax override feels too scary right now and I understand and appreciate these fears. 

Lara: The recent national election moved me greatly in terms of considering what I could do locally to effect change in my own community. It is important to me to be an example for constructive, positive action. Becoming a local leader, I believe, has a ripple effect. It gives me a stronger voice and, as an elected volunteer, I take this seriously.

 

During the campaign, several parents commented to me about what the experience taught their children about local government, the election process, community organizing and civic engagement. I consider this the highest compliment to have been instrumental in that learning. Having a UMass Dartmouth student work on my campaign for four months is another example of hands-on learning. She produced tangible community results and learned first-hand what it takes to run a local campaign. I hope to find ways for students from our schools,  elementary through college-age, to get involved in local town projects.

 

Dartmouth has much to be proud of but we are having some struggles like many towns and cities in Massachusetts. We've got to be fiscally savvy but not strip ourselves of a quality of life that makes for a thriving community.  I'm committed to seeing our wind turbine project come to fruition -- utility cost savings across town departments means money can be made available for other pressing projects. I'd like to see our Wellness Center open to serve seniors and families struggling with health issues. I think full-day kindergarten should be a standard in our community; I'm committed to working with the school department to make this happen. I think a communication plan for our town is a must -- how else can we engage our citizenry?

Lara: If I could share a message with the next generation ... it would be one of building community. There is nothing of greater importance than building strong connections within our communities -- bridging divides, forging diverse partnerships, and working together to solve issues that face ALL of us. There is room at the table and we need strong voices!

 

I was sworn in at Town Hall on April 8, the day after the election, and I was humbled by the act. I was reminded of my reasons for running -- the moral obligation I feel to myself, my family and my neighbors to restore a sense of community around me and to continue to find solutions that work. I have the next three years to work with others on implementing solutions in Dartmouth, in Massachusetts and in my region. Many have commented that the campaign we ran has already helped change the tone of things in our town. I've spent my whole life and my professional career bringing people together, building community and inspiring others to serve a common vision. I know that a more thoughtful, even-keeled approach will bring out good sense, inspiration, and competence in others. I have jumped in with both feet and intend to channel my energies wisely. I could not have taken this step without the support of others. I hope, through reading this, others might feel moved to take some action. Being a Select Board member in my town is my bold commitment for the next three years. What is yours?

Lara: This year was the third annual Tiara Classic Mother's Day 5K Road Race. The effort by many has become a well-oiled machine. One successful aspect of our approach is that we leave room for local companies and organizations to give what they can -- cash, prizes, donated food or safety equipment. We work in partnership with area businesses, town departments and service groups. Again, there is room at the table for everyone and we think the Women's Fund vision inspires people to give time, talent and treasure.

Lara: The Race Team is looking at what we want to do going forward. Race participants LOVE the course, the family-friendly feel of the day and the healthy choice approach to celebrating women by getting out and exercising. All three of my boys run or walk the event (9, 7 and 5 years old) and I love teaching them about making mom a priority in this way! The race has been in Mattapoisett for three years and Oxford Creamery is a top-notch host. They could continue to host and we have had discussions about creating a "moveable feast" of sorts. Should we move to another town or city in the region and give others a chance to get involved with the Women's Fund and programs that support women and girls? If you have some ideas or would like to get involved, please be in touch!  We haven't decided what's next and are looking for input.