Karen Johnson steps down from selectman role: ‘Unparalleled leadership skills’

Photo courtesy of Karen Johnson

July 6,2020 by Carol Britton Meyer

During Selectmen Chair Karen Johnson's final board meeting June 25, fellow Selectmen Mary Power and Joseph Fisher presented her with a proclamation for her exceptional service -- commending her for being "a role model for all who may follow." William Ramsey was elected to fill her seat at the June 27 town election.

The proclamation recognized Johnson for her "careful consideration of complex issues, commitment to transparency and a high ethical standard, and profound sense of respect for the many constituencies of the Town,"  which benefitted Hingham overall, including fellow board members, town employees, and the community.

Dedicated to Hingham's veterans community, Johnson was also supportive of affordable housing initiatives. She also sponsored targeted tax relief for seniors, which is in the works, and "always strove to improve the well-being of our citizens in most need," the proclamation states.

Johnson also worked tirelessly with fellow selectmen and other town officials and volunteer committee members to help bring about the town's acquisition of the water system serving Hingham, Hull, and part of Cohasset from Aquarion Water Company. That transition is expected to be completed by July 31.

In addition, Johnson advocated for public safety, seniors, and students, "which will result in a significant investment in new public safety infrastructure, an expanded senior center, and modern school facilities,  serving our residents from childhood through their golden years," the proclamation continues.

Johnson was also commended for her "unparalleled" leadership during the unprecendented COVID-19 pandemic and for her financial stewardship of the town.

During the June 25 meeting, Power spoke of Johnson's commitment to Hingham Square and the downtown businesses, her leadership in creating the Fiscal 2021 Financial Management Plan, "and her exceptional work on water company governance matters. Her contributions to the town were significant."

Fisher also spoke highly of Johnson. "Although I worked with Karen for only one year on the Board of Selectmen, in that brief time I learned important skills about leadership from her," Fisher stated. "She was effective at motivating -- and delegating to -- others, maintaining a positive attitude, and acting with honesty and integrity.

"Karen demonstrated all of those traits, from her dealings with the water company acquisition to navigating the twists and turns of this COVID-19 pandemic" he said.

Johnson told the Hingham Anchor that she would like to say thank you to the citizens of Hingham for giving her the opportunity to serve on the board.  "It was an amazing experience to be a part of the landmark purchase of the water company and to work with such talented staff and volunteers on matters that are important to this community," she said.  "I continue to marvel at the civic commitment in this town,  and to have been a small part of our strong volunteer tradition has been an honor."

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