To the editor:

At election time, the air is full of calls for change. Voters say they want it. Politicians promise it.

But sometimes change is a bad idea. That’s clearly the case with the Portsmouth Town Council. Four members — David Gleason, Mary McDowell, Sharlene Patton and David Reise — have done an excellent job representing the interests of townspeople and should be reelected.

What about the eight other candidates for the council? First-timers are a gamble; they have no record to judge them on. Gleason, McDowell, Patton and Reise — more than the other candidates who are looking to return to office — have led on key issues that have greatly benefited town residents:

• Holding budget increases to under 3% for two years, resulting in low property tax increases without reducing town services.

• Working to reverse the state’s takeover of local zoning, which severely restricts residents’ control over housing, weakens property rights and is likely to cause significant tax increases.

• Opposing Flock camera surveillance in Portsmouth.

• Preserving open space at Glen Park and prioritizing long-term land stewardship.

• Allocating budget surpluses to reduce pension liabilities.

• Introducing public comment time at council meetings to encourage public participation in government.

• Placing a question on the 2026 ballot about nonpartisan voting to reduce party bias.

It is said that past results are a good indicator of future performance. If so, Portsmouth voters would be wise not to change what has worked so well for them. Vote to return David Gleason, Mary McDowell, Sharlene Patton and David Reise to the Portsmouth Town Council.

Peter Roberts

Portsmouth