Selectwoman's work downplayed

I READ Dan Payne's Aug. 24 column ``The race for No. 2" and felt it necessary to respond about the role of a selectman in the town of Brookline, or in any municipality. Mr. Payne implies that Deb Goldberg, who was an outstanding selectwoman and board chairwoman, had no real duties, and writes that ``Brookline is actually run by (a) professional town administrator."

In Brookline, as with other communities with a town meeting form of government, the selectmen serve as the chief elected and executive officers of the town. They are vested with all municipal authority, except some duties reserved for Town Meeting . It is true we are blessed in Brookline with an excellent town administrator, but he serves under the direction and is subject to the authority of the Board of Selectmen.

Selectman is not typically a full-time job, but it is service to the public with long hours for little or no pay. The time commitment is often a deterrent to potential candidates. Brookline was fortunate to have someone of Deb Goldberg's experience and background to help guide us through tough economic times. Massachusetts would be fortunate to have someone with her abilities as lieutenant governor, and I do not want to see her experience underestimated.

ROBERT L. ALLEN
Chairman, Brookline Board of Selectmen