First, I wanted to say ‘thank you’ again to everyone who supported my run in this strange campaign season. Running for administrator was an amazing experience, and gave me an opportunity to connect with North Smithfield residents who were willing to talk about their fears – and hopes – for our community’s future.
Hope is why I am supporting Paul Zwolenski as our next administrator. Through his 16 years as a town councilor he has consistently proven he is committed to a better future for our community. He is a genuine public servant, and ready to use his real experience to lead us through the challenges ahead.
His opponent has different priorities. When I called to concede the primary and congratulate Mr. Osier, he and I wound up having a very honest conversation about our respective campaigns. Mr. Osier admitted to me that the town administrator job wasn’t his first pick – it seems as though he wanted to run for a higher office first but settled for this. It was a surprising, disappointing confirmation of his principles and priorities. It also explains why he has yet to give any detail about what he would do if elected. Apparently, the title means more than the job.
Our community cannot afford an administrator inaugurated with one foot out the door already. We need a steady leader who has the right experience and temperament and puts North Smithfield first as a rule, not a slogan.
I was able to get to know both remaining candidates for administrator well over the past few months. I am impressed with Paul Zwolenski’s Five Pillars plan and encouraged to see the emphasis he puts on topics like education and senior services. Paul understands the challenges this town has faced in the past – including the challenges of a recession. This experience and ability will be crucial as we face down whatever financial and operational realities we have to cope with on the other side of the pandemic. He is the right person for the job, but just as importantly this is the right time for a person of his experience. Paul has a hopeful vision of our town’s future; he has the ability to build consensus, and will work collaboratively with the town council and school committee on making that future our reality.
Choose experience. Choose hope. Vote Paul Zwolenski on November 3rd.
Sincerely,
Paul Jones
Paul Jones is a former candidate for the position of town administrator and member of the North Smithfield School Committee
