Frambors neighbors,

The following questions were asked of all Candidates:

Do you believe that "the costs of the Lawsuit" and the possible Federal Court ruling should mean that Framingham should have the best possible Attorney representing it?  If not how low down the bar should we go to hire an Attorney?

Here is my response:

As a defendant in the SMOC lawsuit I sought out the best Attorney I could, one who is experienced and qualified in Federal civil litigation, to defend my interests.  I would insist that our Town leaders do the same thing to protect the Town’s best interest.

Town Meeting understood the importance of having strong representation and voted $150,000 for that defense. I agree with the 125 Town Meeting members who voted in the affirmative and the boards, committees and residents who stand behind this decision. I have always put the Town’s best interest first and I will continue to do so. This would be my stance even if I were not named in the SMOC lawsuit or seeking office. It is essential that we vigorously and competently defend our right to self govern and the right of Framingham residents to speak freely.

In December 2007, the MWDN published documents in which SMOC said that they prefer working with Town Counsel as opposed to the Boston attorney chosen to defend this suit. This is exactly the request made before Fincom last Wednesday by several Town residents.

Is it in the best interest of the Town to allow SMOC to choose the attorney defending the Town and citizens who they sued?

I do not think so.

Laurie Lee