January 31, 2010

To the Editor:

I would like to clear up some of the misconceptions that were presented in the letters to the editor in the Goffstown News about me.  While I cannot profess to be a member of Goffstown for over 50 years, I have been a resident my entire life. For the last six of them, I’ve had the honor to represent the community of Goffstown on the School Board.  And if the people so choose, I will try to represent them again.  I was so pleased to see that there is a contested race for the various boards this year.  It’s the first time I’ve seen that in six years and I’m so glad to see more people interested. 

During these past few years, I have really begun to understand the process and how things work and have been trying to listen to the people.  I encourage everyone, including Ms. Bettencourt, to come to the board meetings and make public comment. 

Ms. Bettencourt seems to be misinformed about the warrant articles.  There are articles presented by the Board, which I voted for (either for or against) and there are those that are petition articles, which are presented by the public.  As first presented at that meeting to be voted on, I did not understand the implications these petition articles would have on the people.  I stand by my abstention at that time as I did not have all the information I needed to vote on that.  I apologize that my intentions were not clear.

As for my parentage, that has certainly never been a secret to anyone in town.  I am proud to have two active members of the community who are willing to give their time and energy to do what they think is right for Goffstown.  The information about my mother is incorrect, but that would be another article all together.

To all the residents of Goffstown, let your elected officials know what you expect of them.  If I’m 
re-elected, I know that I will try to represent you.  Whether or not you agree with my record, please go out to vote on March 9th!

Lorry Cloutier
Goffstown