What should we expect, if not demand, of the next President of the Easton Town Council? A proven consensus builder, an experienced leader, and a dedicated public servant and role model.
Don Abbatiello has demonstrated his consensus-building skills as interim Town Council President during the summer of 2023, as Ward 2 Councilman from 2019 to the present, as a member of the Affordable Housing Board since 2020, and as a member of the Library Board since 2023. In addition, he has consistently voted for measures favoring conservative growth, fiscal responsibility, civility, and citizen participation. He has the support of fellow Council members Curry, Davis and Montgomery and has been endorsed by the editorial board of The Star Democrat because of his leadership style.
Don Abbatiello has been an Easton Volunteer Fire Department volunteer for 16 years, at various times serving as President, Vice President, Trustee and Lieutenant. In 2024, he received the Department’s Firefighter of the Year Award.
In addition to being a volunteer firefighter, Don Abbatiello has been a dedicated public servant in his capacity as a public school teacher for 27 years. He is a National Board Certified Teacher and currently serves as his school’s representative to the Wicomico Board of Education. He is also an advisor to numerous student organizations.
While Don Abbatiello may not appear as flashy or post as many candidate signs around town as his opponent, it’s important for voters to compare the records of both Town Council President candidates before casting their ballots. It is equally important for voters to consider their contributions to our community — during the opponent’s roughly 1 ½-years’ tenure as Town Council President and Don Abbatiello’s as interim Council President, Ward 2 Councilman, Affordable Housing and Library Boards member, volunteer firefighter and teacher from 2009 to the present.
Finally, and unlike his opponent, who appears to be running based on political party affiliations, Don Abbatiello has chosen to run his non-partisan campaign based on his expansive record of public service.
Comparing the two, voting for Don Abbatiello is a slam dunk.
Clara Kelly
Easton
Rick Hughes says
Agreed!
Bob Kopec says
I agree, Clara. Don Abbatiello should be a slam dunk.
James Brennan says
I’m voting for Don Abbatiello because of the values he exhibits everyday. He values Community Service. It won’t make you rich, but serving your community returns so much to you and your family and those you impact in the Town. Don gets that, and he gets my vote!
Grace Soltis says
At council meetings where discussions became quite animated, I noticed a stark contrast between the demeanors of Don Abbateillo and Frank Gunsallus. Don really listens and weighs the arguments put forth by all parties including town residents. Frank tends to work to push for his foregone notions to a fault, without much regard for compelling arguments and facts presented that do not suit his agenda. In my view, Frank spends too much of taxpayers time in attempts to undo carefully crafted resolutions that are the result of many hours of work on the part of citizens as well as town officials. It’s easier to criticize, attack and dismantle, than it is to research, collaborate and build community and solutions for the serious problems that face our town. Don is a consensus builder, never in a rush to adopt a position until he is satisfied that all are heard from. Don is fair, patient, and thorough. Don would serve us well as Easton Council president. Don Abbatiello has earned my vote!