Principles & Issues
Ethics and Integrity
An ironclad commitment to ethical behavior and integrity is key in establishing the basis for trust between an elected official and the people they serve and that is why it is a guiding principle of my campaign.
It is also critical that a culture of strong personal character be communicated by those in leadership positions and is shared by our town workforce. While it is the Town Administrator who manages day to day operations of the town government and ensures compliance with policies I believe a unified tone from the top emphasizing our standards and expectations will be beneficial.
Select Issues:
Review management and hiring policies for a commitment to ethical conduct
Discuss with town leadership what processes are in place for dealing with potential violations of policies
Fiscal Responsibility
The taxpayers of Stoneham expect that the funds they provide to our town government are used effectively and efficiently. During my six years on the Finance and Advisory Board I was faced with the challenge of both, supporting many of the proposed investments our town departments wish to make to enhance services to citizens, and understanding that the funding to make those investments is not always readily available. I will face this challenge on the Select Board through active listening to what our residents find important and clearly communicating back the financial status of our town.
A significant component of our town's financial status is the health of our financial reserves. Stoneham has established a track record in recent years of supporting its stabilization funds and I believe this goal should be sustained.
Select Isses:
Ensure town budget proposals reflect resident and business priorities
Support strong fiscal policies and the sustainment of our rainy day funds
Stewardship
Stoneham's government possesses many assets that are used to provide critical services to its residents and businesses and these assets must be maintained. From numerous school and town facilities, to miles of road and sidewalk, and dozens of pieces of equipment our community has invested in itself and the best way to keep these assets producing for our citizens is to maintain them in a state of good repair.
While on the Finance and Advisory Board I have made good stewardship of our town resources and the replenishment of old capital equipment a focus and that will continue on the Select Board.
Select Issues:
Increase investment in town roads and sidewalks
Work with Town Administrator, DPW, Facilities to ensure there are no blind spots in managing our capital assets