To the editor:

Since I moved to Portsmouth, I have cared deeply about the future of our town. Over the past 15 years, I’ve actively participated in local issues, serving on a couple of committees and attending countless town council meetings. I know firsthand what it takes to move our community forward.

Because I am so invested in Portsmouth’s future — and especially in preserving Glen Park — I am writing to share why I will be voting for Mary McDowell, David Reise, Sharlene Patton and David Gleason for town council.

I am supporting them because they have a proven track record of delivering for our town. Together, they have:

• Protected our open spaces: Worked tirelessly to preserve Glen Park.

• Delivered fiscal responsibility: Reduced our taxes without cutting the essential services we rely on.

• Empowered residents: Introduced public comment periods to ensure your voice is heard at every meeting.

• Secured our future: Responsibly allocated budget surpluses to strengthen the town’s pension funds.

I am also asking you to join me in voting YES on Question 7 to support nonpartisan elections. Under our current partisan system, those who live on Aquidneck Island and are government employees are actually prevented from running for office. Question 7 will remove party labels from our local ballots, ensuring that dedicated residents aren't excluded from serving and that our local elections stay focused on local issues.

Please make your voice heard in this upcoming election! For official early voting schedules and polling locations, please visit the Rhode Island Voter Information Center.

Cynthia Burke

Portsmouth