What makes a community strong and great to live in? According to urban planners who study these things, an important component is character.  Communities that are unique in character, have a distinct advantage over more generic ones, to attract new residents and visitors. People are attracted to fun, lively, walkable, livable, historic places with great architecture and quaint, locally owned shops and restaurants. Warren has this advantage, but we can do more to cultivate and promote it.
 
We already have a great merchants association and a motivated volunteer group that work hard for Warren. We have an economic development board that wants to contribute more. But more coordination between these groups, our Town departments and especially Town Council is essential.
 
Teamwork, beginning on our Town Council, will further this goal. I hope to have the opportunity to work with a coordinated team of Council members this coming term.

Brandt C. Heckert
Democratic candidate for Warren Town Council