To the Editor,

Senator Susan Fargo has decided not to run for reelection. The Third Middlesex District she has represented includes Bedford, Carlisle, Chelmsford, Concord, Lexington (precincts 3, 8 and 9), Sudbury (precincts 1 and 4), Waltham, and Weston.

We are writing to urge district residents to support and vote for Mike Barrett, a Democratic candidate for state Senate and former candidate for Governor. Primary Day is Thursday, September 6. We are very fortunate to have such an outstanding candidate with invaluable experience.

In our roles as co-chairs of the Hanscom Area Towns Committee’s Environmental Subcommittee (HATS ES), the undersigned have worked closely with Mike on a number of issues spanning more than a dozen years. During that time, we have come to know him well. 

The Environmental Subcommittee of HATS assists the four towns of Bedford, Concord, Lexington, and Lincoln in assessing area environmental impacts including Massport’s Hanscom Field airport activities, including their proposed expansions. As a local governmental creation, the Environmental Subcommittee takes no positions on political candidates, and this letter is a personal recommendation from the two of us individually.

Mike is a long-time participant in local actions that could control the growth of Massport’s civilian airport, and in controlling noise and pollution from the airport. We found him to be creative in dealing with airport issues, and he carefully and fairly considers alternate views. This is characteristic of his approach to all public matters.

Mike is also an active supporter in keeping the U.S. Air Force as a strong presence in the community.

Mike’s 17 years of experience working on local issues demonstrates that he can step in to address what is important to the state and the district without any delay. He is an exceptional candidate.

We urge you to support and vote for Mike Barrett.

Richard L. Canale, Shade Street, Lexington
Julian J. Bussgang, Great Meadow Road, Dedham