Melanson Wants Apology
Ms. Melanson read this letter to the Fairhaven Select Board on 6/9/25
I am writing to formally express my concerns regarding the conduct of two members of the Select Board during and following the May 12, 2025 meeting, and to respectfully request a public apology from those members as well as a re-interview for the full-time voting position on the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).
During that meeting, I presented myself as a candidate for the full-time ZBA position, submitting my qualifications in good faith. Unfortunately, the manner in which Ms. Mello addressed me during the interview process was both inappropriate and demeaning. Rather than focusing on my professional experience and qualifications, she chose instead to refer to me dismissively as “merely a grandmother.” At no point did she inquire about my credentials, experience, or dedication to public service.
Following the reading of Mrs. Travers’ letter into the public record at the May 27, 2025 Select Board meeting, Ms. Mello was made aware of the hurtful and unfair nature of her remarks. Yet, to date, no apology has been offered. A sincere, public apology would not only acknowledge the harm done but also reflect the accountability and respect expected of public officials.
Additionally, I must bring to your attention an incident that occurred immediately after the May 12 meeting. Mr. Romano approached me in the hallway and began questioning me about the very topic that had just been addressed during the meeting.* His comments were invasive, disrespectful, and unprofessional. More troubling, during that conversation, Mr. Romano made disparaging remarks about Ms. Erin Carr, a respected and accomplished professional in our community. This behavior is not in keeping with the standards of respectful discourse that the public deserves from its elected officials.
Mr. Chair, I respectfully request that the Select Board take the following actions:
1. A formal and public apology from both Ms. Mello and Mr. Romano for their inappropriate conduct.
2. That you move to rescind the vote for the newly appointed full-time ZBA member.
3. That a re-interview process be scheduled, allowing all candidates, including myself, the opportunity to be evaluated fairly based on professional merit and qualifications.
Public service requires integrity, fairness, and accountability. I trust that the Board will uphold these principles and take appropriate corrective action.
Cathy Melanson, Fairhaven
*Editor’s Note: Mr. Romano denies that this interaction took place and publicly disputed it at the 6/9/25 Select Board meeting during the “Board Member Items” section.
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