Town Meeting Candidate Profiles
Learn about the candidates who hope to represent you at Town Meeting
The 2024 Town Election is coming up soon, and there are fifty-three candidates vying for the votes of the citizens in their respective precincts. Each precinct has between five and eight candidates for six (sometimes more) open spots. Learn what precinct you are in and get a refresher on what Town Meeting does, then click your precinct to read profiles from the candidates for election to Town Meeting.
Unfortunately, not everyone submitted a profile, so if you know anyone who’s running and you don’t see their information here, encourage them to fill in this survey to share with voters why they’re running and what kind of impact they hope to make.
Precinct 1
Precinct 2
Precinct 3
Precinct 4
Precinct 5
Precinct 6
Precinct 7
P1
Bill Boivin
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I have been an active Town Meeting Member for 6 years and have never missed a Town Meeting. I am vice chair of the Burlington Conservation Commission. I really try to use those positions to affect progress in our community. I am retired and have the time to devote to such activities.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Protecting the character of our neighborhoods by maintaining a proper balance between residential and commercial interests. Moving forward on improvements at Fox Hill School, Pine Glen School, and the high school. Ensuring any development is done in a fiscally and environmentally responsible manner.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I seriously study all issues that come up on Town Meeting and make my voice heard at the meetings. I participate in other meetings that impact members of my precinct. I've been active in Fox Hill School building committee meetings and have met with police and town officials to discuss traffic calming in the precinct. I am a member of the advisory committee for the Mall Road/Middlesex Turnpike redevelopment initiative. I try to know what is going on, solicit input from residents and businesses, and push for a balanced and financially sound community.
Peter Abaskharoun
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
As a 37 year resident, I’ve seen this town go through many changes. Some of these changes have been great for our community such as our push to bring life sciences companies into town, and some not so good such as the closing of our Vinebrook water treatment facility. I’m running for town meeting to give my precinct a voice in the constant changes we are going through as we grow together and make sure we continue to build upon our strong foundation to leave Burlington an even better place for our children
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Burlington is a unique community in that its growth is drastic as the desire rises to both live and work here. As such, our services haven’t grown at the same rate and unless this is addressed, we could soon be faced with a shortage or delay in town services. Our community deserves to continue to benefit from town services such as clean water, short police and fire response times, and DPW that is able to respond to neighborhood needs just to name a few.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
There are numerous ways to impact the way our services are delivered. First a realization has to be made that there is in fact a problem that needs to be addressed. This can be accomplished through resident observations, public log reviews, water reports, etc. A factual data set should be established in order to determine what caused the problem and decide with our community how it needs to be addressed. Implementation of new strategies and an analysis to see if it’s working would be imperative to make sure lasting positive change will benefit the Town of Burlington.
Michael Hardy
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I grew up in Burlington, went to school here and raised my family here. I am on the Ways and Means committee (former chairperson) which has allowed me to learn about and help shape all budgets in town and how we finance capital projects. I am chair person for the public safety subcommittee (Police, Fire and Emergency Management). I believe I have the knowledge and experience to serve on Town Meeting.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
The biggest issues that I see are decisions on capital projects - schools, police station, etc and how we manage their financing. There will also be important discussions on housing and increasing diversity in town.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I have the experience and background to understand and guide the towns financial planning. This needs to be done with an eye to keeping our tax rates low and also preserving our strong commercial base. I am always willing to listen and learn about what is important to residents as they are the key to our community.
Sunniya Saleem
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I have been a Burlington resident for about 9 years. I am a mom of two kids who go to elementary school in Burlington. We have lived here for nearly a decade, I love this town and our family has been actively participating in town events and activities for a number of years. This is our home and we believe in investing and building here. We are very involved in the Burlington community, I teach arts at the Recreation Center, previously was on the Burlington SEPAC board for a brief period and I have also been an artist at Made in Burlington. In my day job, I am a VP of Marketing at a Boston based tech company. I have been a tech marketer for about 16 years. I did my undergraduate degree and my Masters from London. I also have a leadership certificate from Harvard Business School. I am very passionate about this town and everything that Burlington represents. I decided to run for a position for a number of reasons: the first one being championing DEI efforts across town. I am a single, brown mother of two multi-racial children. Diversity, equity and inclusion are very close to my heart. I want to champion diversity, equity and inclusion in Burlington and ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging in this town. Burlington is a town which is changing rapidly and it’s becoming increasingly important to ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging and connection here and that diversity is celebrated in our neighborhoods, that equitable access to resources is provided to everyone. As we evolve schools and buildings around town, we need to ensure that we support each other. I am running so that we can pave the way forward for future generations and put a strong foundation in place that helps us provide and create a strong network of support for people with different abilities, ethnicities, religious and cultural backgrounds, sexual preferences etc.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Growing population and lack of strong structures to support the growth and shift in diversity are big challenges for this town
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I have always actively championed causes that I am passionate about. The way I will work to champion and support DEI efforts by being a TMM member is to actively get involved in the different committees that are seeing through and approving the capital investments around town, ensuring that as new school and police buildings get built we consider access for people with all abilities and backgrounds. I think I can also help by putting my tech and marketing background to use in helping build this town.
Jaimee Greitzer
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
Hi Neighbors! I am running for Town Meeting to get more involved in the decision making that directly impacts ours and our children's everyday lives. Finding a lot of disillusionment in state and national elections to the point of becoming an independent voter, I have come to the conclusion that town government is where I can do the most good for our community.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
The biggest issues currently facing Burlington is, one, maintaining peace, empathy and understanding of the diverse populations represented in Burlington during time of war, two, the school building projects and how the police department building impacts that, and three, the increasing population, development of apartments and how that impacts our schools.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I will be present, involved and available to my constituents. Having taken courses on conflict resolution and mediation this year, I will use these taught skills to be open to changing my own mind set when presented with data and varying view points.
David Woodilla
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I have been a resident of Burlington since 1993 and an active Town Meeting member since 2001. I am married, have raised four wonderful children through our school system and thoroughly enjoy what this town has to offer. This is a great town and participating on Town Meeting is a way for me to give back as well as shape the future of Burlington.
We will have many challenges, or opportunities, as we move forward these next few years. I believe the most important will fall into what I think are ‘core values’ of our residents. High Quality Schools, Excellent Services and Low Residential Tax Rates. We get good value for our money in Burlington, and I would like to continue on Town Meeting as we set this direction going forward.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
The town is facing specific opportunities in the foreseeable future. Capital infrastructure and managing our commercial base following Covid are what I see as the two most pressing. The capital infrastructure includes the new police station and Fox Hill Elementary School projects. Both, I view, are needed to maintain our town’s value and the excellent services we provide. Balancing the additional ‘cost’ of the infrastructure projects will be our ability to manage our commercial base. Following Covid, the way businesses operate has changed and Burlington must stay agile enough to attract meaningful business to support our town ‘revenue’ without significant burden on our infrastructure or services. This will be a tight rope to navigate, but one that I believe I can bring my experience and background to help make the right decisions.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
Being prepared is probably the most important aspect of being a Town Meeting Member. Understanding the Warrant Articles (decisions brought to Town Meeting), their cost and their benefit to the values of our town is extremely important.
Taking an active role in critical issues is also important. This fall, I listened to my neighbors and helped to shape the future of our community by maintaining a four elementary school model in town. I serve as the Chair of the Land Use Committee, advising Town Meeting on Warrant Articles related to how land is managed and governed. I thoughtfully speak at Town Meeting to bring forward ideas to shape other’s decisions on specific issues. I attend Town Meeting with a near perfect attendance record, and I vote.
All of this takes time and effort, which I recognize and allocate. I don’t think these decisions are easy and I don’t take them lightly. There are many factors that need to be considered, some obvious and some less so. Ultimately, there is a cost and a benefit and trying to optimize those factors to bring the most value to our town is what I attempt to effect. I would like to ask for one of your six Town Meeting votes so I can continue this endeavor.
Florence Leone
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
For more than 40 years I have been fortunate to call Burlington my home. This is where my husband and I raised our 2 daughters, met many friends and created countless memories. My community involvement began with redistricting and the renovation of the Francis Wyman School and continued until I returned to full time employment in 2005. I really missed my community involvement. I have since retired and realized that I can use my professional experience to be of service to the town. I have a bachelor’s degree in accountancy from Bentley University and have worked as a tax manager in the private sector and as a finance manager for a defense contractor. Simply put, I understand budgets, numbers and work well with people.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
1. Meeting the infrastructure needs of the community (New schools, a new police station, safe and clean drinking water)
2. Control spending while still meeting the town’s needs.
3. Affordable Housing: Taking care of our elderly and ageing residents looking to downsize while still attracting both professionals and young families.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I understand how to be open-minded while being fiscally responsible. Above all else, Burlington is not just where I live…this is my home and I would sincerely love to contribute to the betterment of the community.
P2
Myrna Ann Saltman
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
It is an honor to serve the good people of Burlington and that is why I am running for re-election as a Town Meeting in Precinct 2. I currently serve as Chair of the Rules Committee for Town Meeting. Some of my goals are to help educate Burlington more about how Town Meeting works; who their elected Town Meeting Members are; how to improve Town Meeting so that more than 99 of our elected 126 Town Meeting Members (second lowest number in MA) attend TM which occurs 3 times a year; how the 18 members of the 7 precincts can get to know and work with one another on important issues before Town Meeting. For the past few years I have been appointed and serve on the Capital Budget Committee where town department item request costing over $15,000 must be discussed at our Capital Budget meeting with input from the professional heads of that town departments. As an involved Burlington citizen and participant in Burlington activities, I manage the weekly Bridge card game at the Senior Center; for many years now I deliver Library books for folks who are at home; I make a weekly friendly phone call to a long-time Burlington resident gentleman. I love helping others and serving the wonderful Town of Burlington. My favorite activity is marching in the annual Fourth of July parade and seeing and waving all our wonderful residents, especially gently throwing goodies to the young children.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Teaching civics to the schoolchildren in hopes of their learning percolating up to their parents so they know how town government works.. Getting more than 15% of registered voters participating in our Annual April Town Election and knowing what the candidates will do for us. Having a Transportation Coordinator to help plan and implement better transportation accessibility to the whole town seven days a week.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
Keep educating the public with better communication, more transparency and accountability. Serving as a good example ...It's better to give than receive." Having an annual Spring Candidates Forum for the town residents to ask questions of our elected officials and want-to-be elected candidates.
Jeremy Harrington
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I have lived in Burlington for over a decade, and in the area for 40+ years. I work in Supply Chain Strategy for a large company. I want to bring my skills and perspective to help the town I have been a part of, am raising my family in, and plan to live for decades to come.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
We need to build out a long term plan on retaining and attracting businesses while retaining a balance with the residents. Our strong commercial tax base is essential in continuing the fiscal strength that helps make our community what it is.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I come to the table with fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and a cooperative spirit. I believe I can help the town work through discussions and move forward on many fronts.
TJ Flynn
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I’ve lived in Burlington for almost 14 years and have gradually become more invested and involved in the community. I think it’s important to contribute to the continued success of the town and help shape its future.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Replacement and/or refurbishment of town buildings.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I will educate myself on the issues and make decisions that I think are in the best interest of the town and its future.
Kimberley Trainor
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I am running for re-election so I can continue to represent my neighbors on topics affecting our town.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Capital budget items (police station, new schools)
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I will continue to keep informed on the status of these projects and act accordingly.
Also running:
Michelle Papagno (I)
P3
Mildred Nash (Millie)
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
My long TM tenure brings historical perspective to our warrant discussions. I attend all our meetings— as well as the meetings of boards and committees whose work impacts Town Meeting. (Retired from teaching in Burlington, I have lived here since 1967.)
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
A primary focus continues to be the ever-lengthening hours of gridlock that affects every other aspect of Burlington’s existence. I’ve served on TM’’s sidewalk, bicycle, B-Line and town transportation
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
While I care about—and stay cognizant of—all local issues—and address my constituents’ concerns, I will press most on making our town safer for travel without so much congestion.
Lourdes Genao
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
My name is Lourdes Genao of 10 Anna Rd. I’ve had a year of learning and connecting with residents in my precinct and would love to continue to serve my community. As a result,
I’m running to fill s 3 year seat as TMM for precinct 3.
I’ve lived in Burlington for 4 years. I’m happy to have been welcomed along with my two daughters now 11 and 2 years old into this community and would love to get involved and help to contribute.
A little more about me: I hold a masters degree from Bentley University in Information Age Marketing and a BS from UNH Paul Business School in Marketing. I work for TJX companies as a buyer for HomeGoods, where I drive profitable sales for a $400 million business. I have been with the company for 16 years on June 5th. At work, I’m known as the “closer” as I’ve become the main contact for accounts that have taken the corporation over 15 years open, until I gave it a try by negotiating large deals offering favorable terms to all involved. I’m known as a woman of my word, and don’t make promises I can’t keep and often seek to beat any expectations.
I’m known for my attention to detail, my ability to drive great business, for being a positive contributor to any team, my ability to combine numbers and fashion and making something out of nothing by being creative. I love analysis and the story numbers can tell.
Personally, my 11 year old best describes me as a pineapple, I’m tough on the outside, but sweet on the inside. I love spending time with family creating memories and most importantly, laughing.
I love learning and am always curious about the ‘why’ of things. I look forward to meeting you all.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
1. Education - aging buildings, falling behind in rankings vs other towns.
2. Diversity initiatives
3. Environmental concerns as we grow housing and confirm to state regulations
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
All issues will require compromise every Precint has different challenges as we look to navigate solutions.
Melinda (Mindy) Meier
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I have lived in Burlington for 11 years now and love raising my family here. I work in Burlington and my two boys 8 & 10 years old, go to Memorial Elementary. Last year, I was on the PTO and led the fundraising and helped put on events for the school. I would like to get more involved in town and hope to do so as a Town Meeting Member.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Building projects: Police Station and School Building Projects
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I'm committed and diligent in seeing matters get the follow-through and the attention they deserve. I have been the treasurer for my condo association for over 10 years now, so I'm fiscally responsible and appreciate the balance of funds and expenses.
Sharon Lore
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
Hello Burlington.
I'm running for Town Meeting Member in Precinct 3. for a one year term.
Over the last forty years, I've raised four incredible children. I'm the proud grandmother of two older grandsons.
My mom is my HERO!!!!
I've worked in the Semi Conductor Industry for over three decades as a Pricing Analyst
I believe that "Every Voice Should Be Heard And Respected*
I was recently involved with a successful grass roots campaign to save my neighborhood.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Some of the largest issues facing Burlington are:
Balancing commercial growth and residential growth within our community.
Understanding the needs of our seniors and making sure that they are provided for.
Supporting and responding to the needs of our schools which involves working cohesively with the community and respective leadership teams.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I believe that change is possible in any given situation. First one must take the time to understand the fundamental issues at hand. Collaborating as an unified team and truly willing to think outside of the box for a resolution. I'm committed to researching, collaborating, listening to all parties and most importantly implementing viable solutions.
"All voices should be heard and respected*
Bill McCarthy
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
Hi, I’m Bill McCarthy, and I am running for Precinct 3 Town Meeting Member. I would really appreciate your vote on April 6th.
As a resident for 20 years, I am proud to call Burlington my home. My wife Deb and I raised our two children here and I understand the importance of town meeting decisions. Using the skills I've learned during my career in executive management and in other community leadership positions, I will bring a collaborative, practical approach to my role as a town meeting member. The Town of Burlington has been a wonderful place for my family and I have reached the stage in my life where I would like to give back to the town by being part of the town government.
As part of our town, I actively participate in our local government by being on the executive team for the Burlington Volunteer Reserve Corps (MRC), in addition I was a member of the Town’s IT steering committee. I have provided adult leadership to our local Scout troop and was one of the founding members of Burlington Venture Crew 1799. I have a bachelor's degree from Kent State University and I have managed multiple organizations with budgets in excess of millions of dollars, with over 100 employees.
Town Meeting Members play a very important role in town government.. Burlington town meeting sets the priorities for our town and decides where we will spend our money. I am dedicated to the best outcome for our community.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
The biggest issue I see is thoughtfully managing the town's money as we address aging infrastructure and the effects of climate change. We need to manage our money in a manner that keeps our property taxes reasonable, protects our property values and improves the quality of our schools and life. Burlington has a lot of property in low lying areas and I think it’s important we understand how climate change may affect drainage and flooding. We should also be sure to understand the strengths and weaknesses of our municipal infrastructure and be sure it is ready for what the future brings.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I will make sure our decisions are driven by a thoughtful strategic plan that protects the quality of living in Burlington.
Jeff Needham
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
My name is Jeff Needham and I’m running to be a new member of Town Meeting in Precinct 3. My wife and I have been Burlington residents for over 14 years. I have two children in the local school system and our family has been involved with and participated in many community organizations from BYSA, BYBA, Burlington Recreation, the Burlington Library and many others.
I’ve followed town politics closely since being a resident and have had many conversations with residents about key issues the town is facing. If elected I will continue to welcome communication with residents about the issues they’re facing and work to support the town’s growth and changing demographics.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
There are several issues on the horizon that will affect our town profoundly.
We are at a crossroads with many buildings that need to be updated, including our schools and police station. There will be a lot of hard work to do to ensure that Burlington can update its buildings to something that we can be proud of while also minimizing disruptions to our current students and town employees.
Financially, Burlington may be facing a decrease in tax revenue if many commercial buildings don’t return to full occupancy, which seems less likely with remote work here to stay. Navigating how to pay for all of the upcoming projects, services, and needs of our residents without severely negatively impacting tax rates and fees will be important.
I would like to find ways to increase town participation in local elections. A very small percentage of residents currently vote in local only elections which means that our town government isn’t representative of our town as a whole.
Additionally, I’d like to investigate more places for our town sports leagues to practice and play. Our current leagues and town departments do a tremendous job with the resources they have available but some of our sports facilities can use some modernization.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I commit to being an active participant in Town Meeting and learning as much as possible about the issues we’ll be voting on. I’d work with other Town Meeting members and committees when possible to put issues in front of the town that are meaningful and beneficial to all of our residents.
I will continue to have conversations with residents and welcome input from precinct members about the issues we’re facing, please feel free to reach out!
Also running:
Joanne Frustaci (I)
Stephen Marchese (I)
Paul Noonan (I)
Richard DiBona
P4
Wayne Root
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
My parents were residents of Burlington when I was born. We moved to Woburn where I grew up and grew to enjoy community through working at our family’s farm and attending our local church. After getting married my wife and I moved to Billerica and then bought our house in Burlington almost 10 years ago. We have been raising our 4 children here and enjoy the proximity to so much in Burlington. While working for a large beverage company and volunteering at my church over the last 18 years I’ve really enjoyed planning and project management. I’ve developed a growing passion to help make things better and heard the many comments from the select board regarding getting involved within the town. I’d like to represent my precinct and community as we move into this next chapter of Burlington’s history.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Housing, school and municipal buildings, taxes, and redevelopment
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
Listening to precinct residents opinions and feedback. Staying well informed of current topics locally, regionally, and nationally. By getting involved in sub committees and voicing opinions fearlessly. And voting regularly.
Tamara Maniscalco
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I have raised my children in Burlington in the public school system, we've lived here for 20 years. I have a lot of experience with budgeting and planning in my career as a software development manager. I want to make sure that Burlington Public Schools are working for all students, and I want to represent the parents of school aged children who are currently too busy to participate in Town Meeting. I think it's important that we have more voices of current BPS parents in Town Meeting, since most members are more grandparent age and don't have a current view of the schools.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Burlington is facing budget issues with building the new Fox Hill, updating BHS, and also reconstructing the Police Station. We will have to make the budget work despite all of these large expenditures. Also, because so much of Burlington's tax base has comes from businesses, and many businesses have gone hybrid after covid, there is not as much demand for office space as there used to be. It will be important for us to work closely with Burlington's Economic Development Director to make sure we're zoning the town properly and encouraging new businesses to occupy any vacant office space, including rezoning and being forward-thinking about new development. Finally, Burlington's population has diversified over the past 50 years. It's important for us to make sure that we're addressing any changes needed to educate all of the students and include people from different backgrounds.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
In my profession, my role is to get complex work done within a given budget. So to me it's very important for us to invest in strategic things such as the Fox Hill and BHS renovations, as well as the Police Station rebuild, while also making sure to manage costs carefully and continue investing in other critical needs. There is a payoff to smart investment, and I think Burlington has historically been fiscally managed very well and carefully, we just need to continue to do this. Socially, I think it's important to work together and collaborate with everyone. There are a lot of good ideas in the world and it's important to listen and exchange information to get the best possible results.
Becky Norum
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I've been a Burlington resident since 2007. Since then, I've served on the Burlington Special Education Parent Council (past), the Burlington Youth and Family Services board (current), and the Town Meeting Human Services Sub-Committee (current). My professional background is in software development, project and product management, which has trained me to be analytical and empathic and to balance the needs of people with fiscal responsibility. I was appointed to town meeting last year and have attended all meetings since then. I welcome your questions or concerns and hope you will consider re-electing me in 2024!
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
First, managing the many capital expenditures coming up. We have a tradition of quality services and low taxes in Burlington, but have several critical capital projects coming up. We must continue to balance the needs of our residents, business partners and the future in making smart decisions for the town. Second, community engagement. It's been rewarding to be able to volunteer my time to Burlington causes and also to learn how much we have to offer as a community. I would like to see broader town-wide communications on available services and also work done to amplify the voices of residents who may not traditionally be as engaged. Third, traffic and safety. My family and friends walk all over town, and many streets lack sidewalks and/or safe crossing areas even as traffic has been increasing.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
With capital expenditure votes coming up, I will be talking to as many constituents as possible to understand their concerns and viewpoints to make balanced and educated votes. In my role on Human Services Subcommittee, I will continue to advocate for meaningful resident services, diverse representation in our town government, improved communication channels, and safety for all residents. I’m available for constituents by phone or email and always interested in hearing about concerns and needs of our community.
Christine Kim
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I have been a Shawsheen School Committee Member (one of two reps from Burlington) for the last 3 years. I have been on the policy sub committee for 3 years and Chair for 2 of those years. I am the current audit subcommittee chair and am a member of the budget subcommittee for the last three years. I am a small business owner with a diverse background in public and private accounting and taxes.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Updating our schools and public buildings and how they will be financed is the most pressing issue.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I am fiscally conservative and have a strong background in budgets and financial matters. I am open to hearing others thoughts and reevaluating my own opinions when needed.
Frank Monaco
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I am a Navy veteran and I made Burlington my home in 1973. Chris and I have raised our 4 children and now have 15 grandchildren all living here either as graduates or currently in Burlington schools. I have been active in Town Meeting since 1994 and have served on a wide range of planning and financial committees. I am currently a member of Ways and Means and hope to continue my involvement in the future of our community.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
The main issues before us are financing of our capital needs, housing costs, and migrating our commercial base through the business and technology challenges of today.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
How we vote on budgets and zoning is very high impact. I support maintaining all the services we offer today, getting the Police Station and Fox Hill school built, and making zoning changes to enable new businesses. I will use my voice and votes to pursue these goals.
Nancy Bonassera
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
My family and I have made Burlington our home since 2010. I have been a Town Meeting member since 2020, and hope to continue serving my precinct and community. I am also a member of the Human Services Committee as part of Town Meeting. Previously, I served on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee for the Select Board, and I am also one of the founding members and leaders of Burlington Against Racism and the Burlington Equity Coalition.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Burlington has several large building projects on the horizon, including the police station and high school, and it is crucial to fund and prioritize them appropriately. Affordable housing is another area where we need solutions, not just for newcomers, but also residents who are looking to downsize and remain in town, or residents that are returning and looking for new homes. We also need to improve representation our town government; our town population has been increasing in diversity every year, but the demographics of our government have not reflected a similar change.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I will ensure I am well informed and be available to talk to my constituents. I plan to continue serving on the Human Services Committee, and will encourage people to get involved in our community and speak up.
Also running:
Laura Nichols (I)
P5
Mark Donahue
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I have lived in Burlington for over a decade with my wife Kerry, our son Noel, and our two dogs, Penny and George. Professionally, I am a UMass Lowell graduate, an Army veteran, a small business owner, and a classical music recording engineer with 15 Grammy awards. I have a been a Town Meeting member since 2020, and I also serve on the Zoning Bylaw Review Committee. I have very much enjoyed serving in town government, meeting many diverse residents and neighbors, and look forward to continuing to serve.
My priorities are ensuring that Burlington continues to be a welcoming place for people from all walks of life, greater transparency and accountability for town government, and making sure that our town continues to grow and thrive economically, culturally, and sustainably. If you are a resident of Precinct 5, please reach out to me: I would love to hear what YOUR priorities are for our town, and how I can ensure they are represented in Town Meeting.
You can contact me through my campaign page:
https://www.facebook.com/mark.donahue.burlington
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Burlington faces a number of significant and important issues in the coming years including infrastructure expenditures for new school buildings, the police station, and the MWRA transition. All of these expenses need to be funded in a time when our tax base is shrinking due to post-pandemic business and retail changes. We also have a critical shortage of affordable housing (especially for young families and seniors) and need to be strategic in our compliance with the MBTA Communities law, and other efforts to address this issue.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I think it's critical for Town Meeting members to learn everything they can about the important issues facing our town, listen to different viewpoints, seek additional information, perspectives, and clarity when needed, and vote/make decisions that we feel are in the best interest of the town and the constituents in our precinct. I will continue to do this for all issues and warrant articles, and do my best to ensure that my vote on any warrant item reflects my attempt to be as fully informed and thoughtful as possible.
Carl Foss
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
My family and I moved to Burlington in 2013. After a few years in town, I decided to get more involved in local affairs. I was elected to Town Meeting in 2019 and then to the School Committee in 2020 of which I was Vice Chair in 2022-2023. I was a representative on various town-wide committees, including the Recreation Committee and the Town-wide DEI subcommittee. Currently I serve on the Human Services Committee and the 225th Anniversary Committee. I am seeking election to Town Meeting in order to help guide the town through the next few years, lend my voice to the process and speak up for others who aren't able to participate directly. Please check out my campaign website at www.fossforus.us or FB page at www.facebook.com/fossforus
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Overall, I would like Burlington continue to be a welcoming place for all residents, both those who have been here "forever" and more recent arrivals. More specifically, there are numerous long term projects coming up in the next three years. May is budget season and I would look forward to hearing from all the town departments about their spending plans for the next year. Proper planning and execution of the several upcoming building projects will require careful oversight by Town Meeting. If I am elected, I hope to be appointed to committees to help guide the town through these processes. The plan for Burlington to comply with the MBTA Communities Law will need to be approved either in May or September. The next phase of the MWRA connection is a couple years out, but with such a long term project such as this, it is never too early to start thinking about the impact to Burlington. I also hope to continue to hear from ISSAC about the ongoing efforts to secure the digital systems of the town.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
My goal is to try to bring awareness about the issues to people in Precinct 5 and the rest of Burlington as well. Engaging in conversations with friends and neighbors about the upcoming decisions that need to be made is crucial. The insights others can offer helps shape my own understanding of issues, but also allows me to bring those insights and opinions back the the larger body. When as many voices as possible are heard about a particular topic, it is only for the benefit of everyone in Burlington.
Patricia Angelo (I)
Thomas Carlson (I)
Christine Conceison (I)
Christopher Murphy
Domenic Grossi Jr.
Frank O’Brien
P6
Corey Everett
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I'm a lifelong Burlington resident looking to do his part in making sure Burlington continues to function well. I love technology, innovation, and I hope to bring my thought process as a software developer to town hall. At the very least, I'll bring the average age down and the attendance rate up!
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Water quality is the obvious answer alongside housing, but fundamentally I'm worried we aren't living up to our potential as a community. It's harder to find success than it once was and I believe high costs are the fundamental problem.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I'll check on the solution currently being presented for water quality - I'm sure I'm not the only one to be exasperated by being told the amount of calcium carbonate in it is *just* within legal limits. I'll stay on top of that if the MWRA isn't a complete solution for it. I think the town could benefit from water conservation efforts such as a town fund for free installation of aerators as an example of what I think is good spending. Housing is a much more complicated, statewide issue but good zoning laws and ordinances on the local level are how we fight back against high prices. As for the community reaching its potential, two of the newer ideas I propose are a home rule petition for local ranked-choice voting (which we already use in our lives when we get a different brand of milk at the supermarket because the one we wanted first was out of stock) as well as making sure the library is well-funded to be a good community space, as this is one of the few places in the modern world where people are allowed to exist without the expectation of spending money. These issues are very important to me, and I hope you see the value in giving these ideas a voice in April.
Sagini Ramesh
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I migrated from Canada to Boston for my profession in the IT sector over 17 years ago. My husband and I bought our first house in Burlington in 2010 a few months before our first child was born. Today, I live in Precinct 6 with my two boys in Grade 7 & 3, my husband and my mother.
I decided to run for Town Meeting to advocate for change and improvements, influence local policies and bring diverse representation and perspective to the existing cohort of Town Meeting members.
Personally, I also want to demonstrate to my children the importance of civic duty and becoming more involved in the community we live in.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
In my perspective the biggest issues facing Burlington over the next three years are the following:
Education: We need to ensure high-quality education for Burlington's children remains a priority. Specifically we need to raise the bar on academic standards, address school over crowding and provide equitable access to resources.
Water: We continue to have problems with our drinking water in Burlington, leading more and more residents to install their own filtration systems because the water is not perceived as safe for consumption.
Environmental Sustainability: We have a duty to protect Burlington's natural resources and green spaces while mitigating the impacts of climate change. Initiatives to promote energy efficiency, reduce waste, and preserve green spaces will be critical in the coming years.
Traffic Congestion: With ongoing development and population growth, traffic congestion on major roadways such as Route 3A and Middlesex Turnpike is expected to worsen. We could face increased commuting times, decreased air quality, and frustration among residents which can lead to aggressive driving behaviors and Wayz routing drivers through residential streets.
Infrastructure Maintenance: We have aging infrastructure such as schools without proper ventilation, pot holes on many of our roads, bridges, and utilities which require ongoing maintenance and investment to ensure the safety and functionality of essential services.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
By being a Town Meeting member, I can bring a responsible and modern perspectives to the issues that we will face in the upcoming years. Furthermore, I can help by addressing the thoughts and voices of the families in my Precinct and also keep them engaged and educated on whats happening in Burlington and how they can help and influence change.
Liz DiTucci
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I'm running for reelection to town meeting because I truly enjoy living in Burlington and have seen how local government decisions can have a positive impact on the quality of life in our town. I grew up in Burlington, went to Burlington Public Schools K-12 and moved back here in 2009. My undergraduate degree is from Bentley University and my MBA is from Babson College. For the last ten years, I have worked at a Fortune 500 Technology company running Business Operations and Strategy for a Software engineering organization. In this role, I have been responsible for supporting a team of over 1500 employees and a budget of over $120 million per year.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Infrastructure projects, including the building of a new police station and schools. The police station plan is underway and widely supported due to the black mold inside the current building. I’m eager to understand the plan and timeline for a renovated or new BHS. We also need to continue to attract business to the town to offset the decline in retail tax revenues. We have big wins with the Broad Institute and other life sciences companies coming into town and I want to ensure this momentum continues as it's a large revenue stream.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
I will show up to the meetings having read and researched the warrant that we vote on. I currently have perfect attendance for all town meeting sessions since starting in the position. I take every phone call and respond to each email from residents. I will utilize my extensive budgeting background to ensure we're making sound decisions that affect the present while positioning Burlington best for the future.
Also running:
Roger Bell (I)
Daniel DiTucci (I)
Gary Kasky (I)
Salvana Shakaib
Jason Brooks
P7
Mark Woods
Tell voters a little about your background and why you're deciding to run for Town Meeting (or why you're running for re-election).
I am running for re-election to do what I can to keep Burlington a desired community in a fiscally responsible manner.
What do you see as the biggest issues facing Burlington in the next three years?
Potential reduction of commercial tax base due to the reduction of in office work forces.
How will you impact these important issues in your role as Town Meeting Member?
By continuing to work on the Capital Budget Committee and review all capital requests, and share our analysis with Town Meeting Members when these items come up for a vote.
Also running:
Shomari Abramson (I)
Julie Cullen (I)
Ryan McSheffrey (I)
Ronald Riley
Thank you, Nicci. I shared this on Facebook hoping to inform members of the community. Will you update with information provided by those slow to respond?