Fairhaven Voters Beware!
What happened at the November 10th Selectboard meeting should outrage every Fairhaven voter who believes in fairness, democracy, and simple decency. (FNN 11/13/25 issue)
The so-called “be kind to our neighbors” team — Mr. Romano and Ms. Mello — showed their true colors. When given the chance to do the right thing, they choose politics over principle and vindictiveness over fairness.
They voted not to reinstate a duly elected Planning Board member, Diane Tomassetti — a woman who holds two master’s degrees, is nearing her doctorate, and has years of real estate experience and Architectural Design.
Diane didn’t deserve to be attacked or used as a scapegoat. She asked for forgiveness for resigning under duress, and understanding that she wanted to still serve her elected term — and instead was met with arrogance and bias.
At that Selectboard meeting the three individuals who volunteered to join the Planning Board were asked to state our qualifications and do we have experience in site development and reading plans etc.
I found this question ironic because the very people who attacked Diane on the Planning Board were asking this question. Why? Their qualifications per their LinkedIn résumés state: “hairdresser, English Language and food procurement “and they weretreated like planning experts ??? It would be laughable if it weren’t so damaging to our town.
Remember, we were told that approving the 40R Smart Growth Districts would bring skyscrapers, chaos, and overcrowded schools. Remember that? It was all fearmongering and lies. And the same people who spread those lies are still working to silence voices that dare to move Fairhaven forward.
Let’s be honest: this small, entrenched group has held Fairhaven back for decades. They oppose smart growth, spread fear about progress, and would rather raise your taxes than welcome new families or new ideas .
Diane was not the problem. She was the scapegoat for the complete failure of our Planning Department — a department that desperately needs new leadership and professionalism.
I believe in this town. I believe in our new Town Administrator and in Fairhaven’s potential. But on that night, our democracy was betrayed by those who claim to protect it.
As I’ve said: “Fairhaven must never tolerate bullying, intimidation, or division. We must choose community, respect, and integrity.”
Sadly, Mr. Romano and Ms. Mello chose none of those.
So, I’m asking you — pay attention. Talk to your neighbors. Watch the meetings. Hold people accountable.
Because what happened to Diane Tommasetti could happen to anyone who dares to stand up for what’s right.
Fairhaven deserves better.
And it’s up to us — the voters — to make this Town a place where our seniors can afford to live and to provide new opportunities to the next generation of families.
Rick Trapilo, Fairhaven
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