He wants taxpayers to get the most value for their dollar.

That 's a prime reason he should be re-elected to the board from District 33.

Martz, 66, Fitchburg, is retired after a career as an administrator for the state.

On the board, he has wisely used his position on the Finance Committee to stand watch over how taxpayer money is spent. He has made a valuable contribution by sponsoring audits to ensure that county programs continue to serve their purpose and are operating efficiently.

Martz is a staunch opponent of a proposed commuter rail line and a Regional Transportation Authority with taxing power. He would be smart to open his mind to the value of pursuing the commuter rail recommendation of the Transport 2020 committee, with the option of letting it drop if it fails to prove feasible.

Martz 's opponent, Nancy Hylbert, 58, a wellness instructor from Fitchburg, has aggressively campaigned against Martz. But she has failed to demonstrate that she would serve the district as effectively as he has.