BUCKLAND – A long-time Amherst town manager is the newest selectman in Buckland.
Barry Del Castilho of Upper Street recently won a three-way election with 245 votes, while opponents Helen O’Gorman got 108 votes and Tuyet Linh “TL” Lafleur got 49.
Del Castilho, 71, has been a municipal manager for 40 years, 24 of which he spent as town manager in Amherst prior to his retirement in 2006. Del Castilho also served for several months as interim town manager in South Hadley in 2008 and 2009.
“I have no agenda,” Del Castilho told residents at a candidates night prior to the election. “I offer you my experience.”
He spoke of the need for more and better communication between town boards. He is serving out former Selectman Kevin Fox’s term until the Annual Town Election in May.
“I’ve already started doing my homework,” Del Castilho said, after the election. “Running for office is not part of my experience, so I’m grateful for everyone who helped in that effort. And I’m grateful to everyone who voted. The turnout was very good.”
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve the citizens and the town, and I’ll do my best,” said Del Castilho.
According to Town Clerk Janice Purington, 405 voters out of about 1,200 registered voters cast their ballots in the election.