My name is Jeanne Paquin and I’m seeking re-election to the planning board. I have lived in Hull for 40 years with my husband, Paul, and we raised our daughters, Adrienne and Catherine, here. We consider moving to Hull one of the best decisions we ever made. By day, I am the office manager of a South Shore electrical contracting firm.

Twenty years ago, Jim Linville (longtime planning board member) asked me to run for planning board, as he was retiring. Over the years, I’ve had the good fortune to serve with more than 20 fellow board members. I have worked with town staff, the Design Review Board, the Zoning Bylaw Committee, citizens and proponents. I have served as chair of the planning board numerous times during my tenure and have 20 years of institutional knowledge.

During my time on the board:
• I have constantly worked to ensure there is a clear, respectful process, where everyone has a voice at meetings and hearings, as well as improving our processes and communication. I am presently working to ensure our agendas reflect in detail what the board will be covering at each meeting.

• We guided the planning initiatives of the Nantasket Beach Overlay District (NBOD), Marijuana Overlay District (MOD), light pollution prevention, as well as the Community Preservation Act from idea to successful implementation, with citizen participation along the way.

• We have reviewed a variety of projects, such as Paragon and Berkley Place, in the NBOD. As a note, I voted “no” on the Paragon project as I felt we could push for an even better project for Hull.

• We are currently collaborating on the master plan with the Master Plan Steering Committee, town planner, MAPC and, of course, citizens.

• Each year we propose amendments for the annual town meeting as zoning needs review and changes to best serve the town.

• I have continued to educate myself over the years by attending workshops and educational sessions, like the recent Citizen Planner Training Collaborative annual conference.

Presently, I serve as the planning board representative on the Capital Improvement Committee and the Waterfront Access Advisory Committee, as well as attending town meetings with the DCR.

Being a member of the planning board requires attention to zoning, details, and deadlines, as well as the ability to balance the concerns of the community with the rights of property owners.

I listen to the community and hear your concerns regarding density, open space, height of buildings, resources, and the two-way road proposal, which needs continued coordination with the DCR and community vetting.

I would like to continue serving the people of Hull and our wonderful town and respectfully request your vote on Monday, May 18.

Thank you for your consideration.

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