Paula M. Burke
Residents of Topsfield:
Thank you for supporting me when this journey began three years ago and in the years that followed. It has been a privilege to be your Town Clerk. I hope that I have served you well. I have given you my all over the past three years and have absolutely no regrets.
After deep reflection, I have decided not to seek re-election. To arrive at this decision, I have weighed many factors, both personal and professional. Not one reason dominates. I am just following my heart and doing what I think is best for my family at a time when things are rapidly evolving. Because I would be uncomfortable vacating the office during a presidential election year (2016) I believe that it is best for me to step away now. I do not feel ready to make a six-year commitment at this time, so it would not be fair to my constituents to ask you to support my candidacy during this election year. I hope that you understand how I arrived at this decision.
I intend to volunteer through this fiscal year (especially for the Special State Election on June 25th) and beyond to assist the new Town Clerk that you elect on April 30th in learning many of the 451 tasks required of this office by Massachusetts General Law. I will provide as much help as is requested during the transition.
I wish to thank everyone who eased my transition into the position: the previous administration (Bev and Joan), my colleagues at Town Hall (who work so hard on your behalf every day) and in the broader community, and you the residents. I did my best to carry on the long tradition of superior customer service and professionalism. I am deeply indebted to both Jack and Beth who have served as the Assistant Town Clerk. I inherited a wonderful election team and Board of Registrars who always stepped up enthusiastically to do whatever was asked of them.
Thank you for understanding my decision. I will greatly miss the daily interactions with residents that continually energize me. I look forward to working with many of you in a volunteer capacity. I am grateful that you gave me the opportunity to serve as your Town Clerk.
Warmest regards,
Paula
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