Priorities

I pride myself in being a thoughtful, data-driven, experienced leader with a multigenerational perspective. I believe that the future of Concord depends on honoring our history and embracing the elements of community sustainability in planning, day-to-day operations, and decision-making. To his end my priorities include: Financial Sustainability & Affordability; Land Use & Infrastructure Planning; Communication, Transparency, & Inclusion; and Safety, Security & Health.

Financial Sustainability & Affordability
I am committed to working with Town committees, managers, and resources to ensure Concord's long-term financial health and sustainability, maintaining ongoing financial health and stability over time. It involves managing resources effectively balancing priorities, managing resources efficiently, and planning for future investments without compromising stability. We must avoid the need for a Prop 2 ½ override. Financial sustainability must align with a fair and equitable tax policy, using all available tools. I will also work to ensure transparency by working with the Finance Committee to communicate how proposed expenditures impact taxes.

Land Use & Critical Infrastructure Planning
In the coming years, Concord has a very rare opportunity to acquire and repurpose over 100 acres of land to meet critical municipal needs, expand housing opportunities, preserve and enhance open space and recreation, and foster commercial development for new revenues. I’ve described this as “airplanes in a holding pattern, needing direction to land smoothly”. This complex, multisite planning will require a blend of vision, expertise and collaboration. I will bring my experience with these issues, along with my leadership and strategic skills, to guide this effort effectively over the short and long term.

Communication, Transparency & Inclusion
I am committed to increasing efficiencies and improving communication, transparency, and public inclusion regarding high priority issues and decisions of the Select Board. This includes better sharing of priorities, processes, accomplishments, and challenges. I will help to promote transparent decision-making, streamline processes, eliminate of silos, and actively seek ways to expand public input. Concord values community engagement, and I will work with the Town Moderator and others to make Town Meeting more inclusive, while actively exploring options for multi-site and remote participation.

Safety, Security & Health
Recent national and international events highlight the importance of preparing for and being able to communicate effectively during low-probability but high-impact events, such as natural disasters and public safety threats, even in our mid-sized Town. As a Select Board member, I will ensure that we finally solve the cell tower coverage problem, that we evaluate risks and resiliency, and enhance preparedness plans, along with local, regional, and state partners. I will make our citizens’ safety a high priority, protect our data systems, and strengthen our ability to respond to, manage, and communicate during emergencies.