As Anna Cote stood in front of the State House on a frigid, January day to listen to Rev. Franklin Graham, the son of Rev. Billy Graham, she heeded the Evangelist preacher’s call for more politicians with Christian values.
Three months later, Cote, who has never held elected office, declared her candidacy for Select Board.
“I prayed about it and felt I should do it,” said Cote Friday. “Whatever happens, I’ll be happy.”
Cote will face stiff competition in Barbara Miller, the chair and longtime Selectman. The open position is a three-year term.
The race is the only contested election on the ballot.
A full-time letter carrier, as well as a grandmother of 10, Cote would like to support the ConVal School District, not spend $20,000 on a study that could break it up.
Miller, besides serving on the board for three terms, is a professional grant writer and a former human resources consultant and corporate executive. On Miller’s website, she lists identifying ways organizations can profit by reducing expenses as one of her specialties.
“I take my fiduciary responsibility seriously,” wrote Miller, in an email. “I know that our residents expect us to use their taxes wisely and manage this town prudently.”
She said that if elected, she would ensure Peterborough continues to be a livable town, describing it as having strong civic engagement, a vibrant town center and good infrastructure.
“In addition, livable towns offer a sense of community, unique traditions, low crime, clean air and water,” she continued. “Peterborough embodies all of these.”
Benji Rosen can be reached at 924-7172 ext. 228, or brosen@ledgertranscript.com. Follow him on Twitter @BenjiRosenMLT