Selectman candidate profile: Ben Thompson

Editor’s note: This is the fourth of what is hoped to be five profiles of your selectman candidates. They are being published in the order in which they were received by The Lebanon Voice. All candidates were asked the same three questions.

Meet Ben Thompson

Personal: Age: 40; self-employed; married, with children

Why are you running?

I bring a respect, professionalism, and  maturity, to the town that is greatly needed at this time. 

I bring a respect to the many different people in our town. The questions asked by town residents deserve to be answered truthfully and in a timely manner.

I bring professionalism to the office of selectman based first on my character, and secondly on my vast business experience and I offer honest disclosure, up front handling of monies, and the investment of time that it takes to represent the town in a positive manner. I recognize the importance of all jobs and services provided by the many different people in our community. 

I bring a maturity to the office based on character and business experience.  

I offer support with a willingness to lead by working with the residents to lift this township to a community that supports one another.  

What is the single most crucial issue that Lebanon must address?

Some issues can be corrected with proper leadership from the selectmen's office, but others will take involvement from the residents with citizens' petitions and the like. Rules and consequences need to be established to build a stronger foundation for our town that would be fair and equal for all. 

Apathy is where we stand now.  Apathy by residents leads to complacency by leadership. This leads to leadership not being clear about their actions, not answering questions when asked, and potentially allowing the fleecing of our pockets in many different ways.

Why do you think you offer more than any other candidate?

I would like to acknowledge all the candidates who have given their personal time over the last several weeks and for their interest in our town.

I would encourage people to vote for me if you think that I will represent you in the manner of which you will be proud.

I do not have any conflicts of interest, or hidden agendas. I do offer a common sense approach to issues that I believe will be of use to this town.  

This town needs to be run like a strong business. Business is not personal. We can disagree on issues, but should still be able to do it respectfully and continue to work together in a positive manner.