Cook statement on local elections

Firstly, congratulations to both Melissa Murphy on her re-election and Karen Rose-Gillis on her election to the Select Board. The position requires a tremendous amount of time, effort, energy, and sacrifice and I wish them both well in joining the remaining Select Board members to work collaboratively together to guide Reading forward. Also, kudos to Tony D’Arezzo for running as well, Reading voters deserved the ability to choose from a diverse candidate pool.

I would like to thank my family, friends, and countless supporters who rallied behind my campaign. With this being my first campaign for an elected position, I was humbled by the overwhelming support from many residents who sacrificed their time and effort to help me through the process, including everything from hosting a lawn sign or simply providing words of encouragement. Special thanks to those that came out and held signs throughout the campaign cycle (including the cold Saturdays), and especially those who braved the tough weather conditions on election day with a mix of rain, sleet, wind, and bitter cold.

Thank you to Town Clerk Laura Gemme, the Clerk’s office and election day staff, and all the other town departments that worked to make election day, as well as in-person early voting and mail in voting, a smooth operation. Managing a 13-hour election day at the high school during a school day takes considerable effort.

Most importantly, thank you to those of you who showed the ultimate form of support and decided to cast your ballot in my favor. Although unsuccessful at this election, I am proud to say this will not be the end, but only the beginning of hopeful future public service to the town for me. I look forward to volunteering and contributing to the town in the future in any capacity I can, to make a positive impact.

In closing, and as a reminder, I encourage all voters to spend some time learning about the two projects we will be considering at the upcoming Special Town Election on Tuesday May 13 th. Additional information on vote by mail, absentee ballot, and possible in-person early voting is available via the Town Clerk’s office. Maximum voter participation and turnout is crucial to making sure Reading voters’ voices are heard on these two important debt exclusion votes.

Sincerely,

Christopher R. Cook

Photo provided by the Cook campaign.