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Dear Friends and Fellow Residents,
Serving on the Select Board is an incredible privilege, and I am asking for your support as I seek re-election.
During my time on the Select Board, we have invested in the things that matter most: communication with residents, public safety, education, recreational opportunities, clean water and sustainability. We are working toward fulfilling the promises of our 2030 Strategic Plan in ways that make our community vibrant and inclusive. I am running to build on our strengths and address our challenges while keeping our community safe, affordable and welcoming.
Local government matters now more than ever. I believe that effective local government starts with the residents and uplifts people of all ages by providing them with what they need to live healthy, productive lives in a community that they love. My focus is on maintaining vibrant neighborhoods, supporting local businesses, ensuring the quality of our schools and municipal services and addressing community needs.
Like so many of you, I chose Shrewsbury as my daughters were about to start school. My husband and I considered several communities, but Shrewsbury stood out because of its strong schools and quality municipal services coupled with a tax bill that we could afford. Shrewsbury became our chosen hometown. As a Select Board Member, I am motivated to protect the things that make Shrewsbury attractive for future generations to enjoy. Being able to shape the direction of our community and improve the quality of life for all is deeply rewarding. I work hard on your behalf and am proud of my contributions.
During my tenure on the Select Board, I have:
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Worked to improve how and how often the Town communicates with residents by helping to develop a quarterly newsletter, implementing monthly Select Board office hours and public comment before Select Board meetings, and recording short video summaries of meetings for social media.
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Focused on long-term financial planning to extend the life of the 2021 override beyond the original four-year commitment to avoid additional tax increases while maintaining sufficient funding for public safety, education and municipal services.
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Expanded the safety net for residents by allocating American Rescue Plan Act Funds to create a Resident Assistance Program to help qualified residents with rent and fuel assistance, purchase a vehicle to allow the Senior Center food pantry to make deliveries to homebound seniors, and support the hiring of a Food Pantry Coordinator.
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Revitalized the Shrewsbury Development Corporation (SDC) by establishing a new vision beyond the redevelopment of Centech Park North to study town-wide economic development and create a roadmap for the future that supports existing businesses and attracts new ones.
I have the temperament and ability to lead and work cooperatively with all of my colleagues, other boards, committees and community groups to deliver the best possible outcomes. I aim to be accessible to all residents and balanced and thoughtful in my decision making.
My approach has always been to gather facts, listen to feedback, and build consensus, and that will never change.
If re-elected, my priorities include:
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Fiscal Stability - long-term budgeting for operations and capital expenses is key to providing services, maintaining infrastructure, and supporting schools. Understanding the financial model helps meet community needs while keeping Shrewsbury affordable.
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Responsible Development – growth must be managed wisely so new projects respect neighborhood character and do not overburden our schools and infrastructure.
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Preserving Commercial Property – growing Shrewsbury's commercial tax base reduces residents' costs and enhances affordability for everyone. With 10% affordable housing under Chapter 40B within reach, we will achieve safe harbor, allowing us to identify zoning changes that safeguard commercial property in business districts from being used for residential development.
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Quality of Life – I am dedicated to protecting Shrewsbury’s most vulnerable by strengthening our social safety net, expanding tax exemptions, supporting our schools, investing in public safety, and preserving essential services for residents of all ages.
My race will likely be contested, and I am asking for your help. By working together, we can achieve much more than any individual effort, and your support is vital to ensuring that our shared vision for Shrewsbury becomes a reality. Together, we can continue strengthening our town and move forward with confidence.
From writing an endorsement, to sending emails to friends about why you support me, to placing a sign on your lawn and/or making a financial contribution, every bit helps and is deeply appreciated.
I will always take the time to speak with you by phone or meet with you in person to hear your perspectives
and understand what matters to you.
I am asking for one of your two votes on Tuesday, May 5th.
