To The Editor:

Definition of Representative ~ *A person who represents a constituency or community in a legislative body *Serving to Represent *Standing or acting for another or others.

With the definitions noted here, who should our State Representative be?  In my own personal experiences with both men, Jim Miceli and Doug Sears, the answer is quite clear.

I contacted Mr. Miceli several times over the years for issues that were very important to me.  The one time he returned one of my calls, he was evasive, untruthful and belligerent.  I even gave him quoted examples of his “miscommunication” in public forums, to which he replied he was “misquoted”.  When I explained I have taped copies of his statements he discontinued our conversation.

Mr. Miceli did contact me another time, regarding my “ignorance” of his position by my publicly informing my community of a House Bill that Mr. Miceli brought forward illegally.  He was angered over my steps to take corrective action to this issue and left me a voice mail that still leaves me scratching my head.  Also, he implied that he did not even realize the House Bill (with his name on it!) was brought forward.  I find that less than responsible for a State Rep.

These are only two of many examples that have left me to conclude that Mr. Miceli is NOT the person I will support to be MY State Representative.   I have found that Mr. Sears has always, without fail, remained an open door.  As one of my Selectmen in Town, I have seen him discuss, not just with me, but with anyone who approached him, every possible issue that can / has been brought to his attention.  He stands his ground on matters that he feels are important, but not ignorantly.  He will discuss with everyone both sides of a situation, whether the other person is on the same page with him or not.  He has opened my eyes more than once.  He will argue, consider, and bring up the issues again and again until he feels he has completely reviewed all the information available.

I have NEVER seen Mr. Sears avoid any matters brought before him.  This is how I feel that MY State Representative should be.  I believe that, as a State Representative, one of the most important characteristics that is needed is ability to discuss with your constituents whatever the issues that affects them.  I see Mr. Sears on line almost daily and it appears he has never “walked away” from any discussion.  When he is out campaigning, his cell phone is nearly always at his ear, undoubtedly discussing with a constituent an issue that is important to them.

Mr. Sears is ready, willing and able to have a public debate requested by the editor of Patch.  Mr. Miceli has difficulties returning phone calls, and when he does, difficulty discussing issues that are of no concern to him.  I have yet to see Mr. Miceli take a moment to discus, on line, any of the many issues that have been brought up by residents of Tewksbury and Wilmington.  Mr. Miceli has refused to participate in a debate hosted by Patch, unless, of course, it is on HIS terms.

The only time I have seen Mr. Miceli’s points of view have been through his supporters.  I guess it’s easier to claim that you’ve been “misquoted” when it’s not your own words by your own mouth / hand that they are relayed.  Is it time for a new State Representative?  Yes, Mr. Sears, IT’S TIME.  Thank you.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Nagle

Resident of South Tewksbury