On Tuesday April 5, Wareham voters will elect two candidates from a field of six to join the town’s Board of Selectmen. Voters better get it right, because each winner will serve a three-year term. And that’s an eternity if a baton ends up in the wrong hands.

In choosing a selectman, voters should refrain from referencing the opinions espoused on local Web sites. While some bloggers purport to engage in debating a candidate’s ability, others use the venue as a sounding board to promote deep-seated personal vendettas.

Steer clear of candidate responses to questions posed by various newspapers, too. Those answers provide little more than rehearsed assurances, and there’s no means to determine if the candidates wrote the submitted material themselves.

One strategy for making an informed decision might be to take a tour of the candidates’ homes. If a certain property lacks curb appeal, hit the accelerator and don’t look back.

If a house blends in nicely with the surrounding architecture, that can signal the owner’s ability to work well with others. On the other hand, if it sticks out like a sore thumb, think twice. And it goes without saying the yard should be neat.

Also, consider the home’s placement in relation to its neighbors. If a house sits on the corner, use caution in your assessment. While a corner lot is indeed an asset, beware the owner who regards it as a source of entitlement.

To finalize your decision, attend the debate on Thursday, March 24 at the VFW in Onset. Ask a pertinent question on specific issues, past or present. Avoid topics that encourage candidates to extol the virtues of their diplomatic skill. Whatever you do, don’t ask what they’ll bring to the table, unless you want to be there all night.

Christopher Gay
Onset