By Max Bowen-max.bowen@northstarreporter.com
After 22 years, there’s going to be a new face representing the 14th Bristol District.
State Rep. Betty Poirier has announced that she will not be running for re-election after more than two decades in the State House. Reached on Friday, Poirier said she had pondered this for some time, but decided that it was the right time.
“It’s going to be an adjustment, no question about it, because it’s what I do,” she said.
Poirier is known for being a strong presence around town and supporter of many different charities and organizations, including the WW II Memorial Pool. Betty’s Angels collects school supplies for area students, food for the needy, and other charitable causes. She said that over the years she’s developed relationships with people in different organizations and governments, and she’ll miss seeing them.
“That’s a big part of the job,” she said. “So many people there are like family.”
The 14th District consists of Consisting of Attleboro: Ward 3: Precinct B; Mansfield: Precincts 1, 5; North Attleborough.
Poirier succeeded her husband, Town Clerk Kevin Poirier, who served in the same role for more than 20 years. When asked about her fondest memories, she said it was being able to cut through the red tape to get people the help they need or get them through a difficult time. In particular, she’s proud of the work done on the Memorial Pool and the Children’s Advocacy Center of Bristol County. Last summer, she worked with entire Bristol County delegates to secure $500,000 for the center.
“I hope to find some place to put my energy,” she said. “I like to be able to do whatever I can to help people.”
