Mark Belanger will not seek another term as Rumford selectman. He has served the community well and he will be missed.

I think his most important activity for Rumford was the crafting and promotion of the secret-ballot election for the town budget.

This change has served citizens well by eliminating the intimidation that often goes with elections of any kind. It has also meant that more citizens vote during the town’s elections.

The secret ballot gave Rumford citizens more control over their town government, moving the control away from special-interest groups. That was a significant improvement in our government “of, by and for the people.”

Belanger deserves many thanks for his great service to the community.

Tom Fallon, Rumford