Question of the week: What is your quick, high-level assessment of how the Barrington Town Council has performed in the past two years?

Neile Hartman — Independent:

The current Town Council has voted unanimously on virtually all substantive votes, compared to the prior Council (2022-24), which dissented on approximately 55%. This lack of healthy debate has led to several suboptimal decisions for our community.

If elected, I will bring meaningful consideration of differing viewpoints to Council discussions, supporting the critical thinking needed to deliver excellent municipal services and sound fiscal planning. Respectful disagreement is a necessary principle of democracy.

Anthony Arico — Independent:

The council in general has been a big disappointment. Decisions seem to be made in a hastily fashion. They disregard the will of the people of Barrington. Residents are faced with the rising cost of living on a daily basis. The trash situation decided by the council has been a complete disaster. Voters begged for a decrease at the FTR vote. Unfortunately the town council was deaf to the voters demands. Our elected officials need to be more sensitive to the needs and wants of those who elected them.

Braxton Cloutier — Democrat: 

Over the past two years, the Council has worked hard to balance the high level of services residents expect with the financial pressures facing our community. We have not agreed on every issue, nor have we gotten everything right, but we have listened, debated openly, and made difficult decisions. I’m proud of the collaborative approach we’ve taken, while recognizing there is still important work ahead to keep Barrington strong, welcoming, and affordable.

Jessica Martin — Democrat: 

Over the past two years, I think that our Town Council has generally provided steady leadership and approached its work in good faith. At the same time, there is always room to improve how the Council communicates with residents, explains major decisions, and incorporates public input before those decisions are made. Barrington is facing important questions about development, affordability, infrastructure, and the responsible use of taxpayer dollars. Going forward, I would like to see a Council that is more proactive, transparent, and collaborative—one that plans for the long term while remaining responsive to the day-to-day concerns of residents.