Information for Needham Voters
April 9, 2019 Election
- Candidates’ Night (video) featuring candidates for the three contested town-wide offices: Board of Assessors, Library Board of Trustees, Board of Health.
- Voters Guide for Town-wide Candidates. All candidates for all town-wide offices submitted information for this Guide.
- Voters Guide for Town Meeting Candidates. All Town Meeting candidates were given an opportunity to respond to this Guide. They were asked to list their top three priorities for the town.
- Information on Voting in Needham.
Candidates’ Night 2019
The April 9, 2019 Needham town election will feature candidates for the 10 elected boards, Moderator, Town Clerk, and Needham’s Representative Town Meeting Members. There are three town-wide offices that are contested: Board of Assessors, Library Board of Trustees, and Board of Health. The candidates for these three offices participated in Candidates’ Night at The Needham Channel studio. Watch the program to meet the candidates and hear their positions and opinions. Candidates’ Night is a production of the Needham Channel and the League of Women Voters of Needham.
Voters Guide for Town-Wide Candidates
Click on the tab below for the office. Candidates are listed in the order they will appear on the ballot: candidates for re-election appear first, alphabetically, then new candidates are listed alphabetically.
- Moderator
- Select Board
- Town Clerk
- Assessor
- School Committee
- Trustee of Memorial Park / Veteran
- Trustee of Memorial Park / Non-Veteran
- Trustee of Needham Public Library
- Board of Health
- Planning Board
- Needham Housing Authority
- Commissioner of Trust Funds
- Park and Recreation
MODERATOR (for 3 years) Vote for 1
MICHAEL K. FEE (Candidate for re-election)
137 Fox Hill Road
Email: michael.fee@lw.com
www.lw.com
Daytime Phone: 617-880-4600
Evening Phone: 781-453-2680
Relevant Qualifications: Member and Chair Finance Committee; Elected Town Meeting Member; current Moderator; lawyer practicing litigation; qualified to apply our rules fairly and ensure the proceedings of this important body are efficient and effective
Most Important Goal: Keeping Town Meeting a vibrant and accessible institution where civil, non-partisan discussion informs important votes. Educating our citizens about Town Meeting, recruiting Members and appointing qualified volunteers to committees
SELECT BOARD (for 3 years) Vote for 1
DANIEL P. MATTHEWS (Candidate for re-election)
31 Rosemary Street
Email: mattlaw@comcast.net
Phone: 781-444-1067
Relevant Qualifications: Cand. for Reelection, 24 yrs service. Attorney. Past School Comm, current Town Meeting. State/Regional govt experience. Grad: BC Law, N’western Univ, NHS. Children attended Needham Public Schools
Most Important Goal: Continuing issues include maintaining town services and improving community in a challenging policy and fiscal environment, and assuring that our government is open and accountable. I appreciate the opportunity to serve on the Select Board and ask the support of the voters to continue that work
TOWN CLERK (for 3 years) Vote for 1
THEODORA K. EATON (Candidate for re-election)
51 Bonwood Road
Email: Tedib@verizon.net
https://www.needhamma.gov
Daytime Phone: 781-455-7500 x 216
Evening Phone: 617-697-9245
Relevant Qualifications: Master Municipal Clerk serving the Town of Needham since 1982, former President – Massachusetts Town Clerk’s Association, Notary Public, Justice of the Peace, and Chief Records Access Officer
Most Important Goal: Successful implementation of federal, state and municipal elections incorporating and enhancing needed revisions to the Early Voting Program; completion of the electronic vital registration system; updating and implementation of the Public Records Law, Open Meeting law, and the State Ethics law; digitization of the town’s vital records indexes
ASSESSOR (for 3 years) Vote for 1
DAVID J. ECSEDY
20 Holland Terrace
Email: david.ecsedy@yahoo.com
781 444-9842
Relevant Qualifications: Long career performing economic analyses, software engineering. Degrees: science, engineering, law. Town meeting member, election worker, Cultural Council, New Year’s Needham, Solid Waste Committee
Most Important Goal: I hope to use my experience of over 30 years as a Needham town resident and my knowledge of every street in Needham (as well as many of the structures on them), to participate in fair and transparent assessments and revaluations. Citizens of the Town of Needham may be sure that I will always be available for questions, comments, and complaints
STANLEY WINSTON
108 Sachem Road
Relevant Qualifications: Former Real Estate Appraiser and recently retired (1/17/18) from the Town of Needham Assessor’s office where I served as the Field Assessor for 10 years
Most Important Goal: To provide a check and balance for the Assessor’s yearly valuation process
SCHOOL COMMITTEE (for 3 years) Vote for 3
CONSTANCE S. BARR (Candidate for re-election)
205 Edgewater Drive
Email: Connie_barr@needham.k12.ma.us
Relevant Qualifications: 11 years on School Committee, Policy and Negotiations committees, previous chair and Vice chair, two years each, previous NHS PTC President 7 years, member Riverside Community Care Board, volunteer Needham Community Council
Most Important Goal: Continued work in equity and diversity, successful opening of the Sunita Williams School and implementation of Full day Kindergarten, continuing to manage resources to support our students
ANDREA E. LONGO CARTER (Candidate for re-election)
18 Colonial Road
Evening Phone: 781-559-3420
Relevant Qualifications: School Committee since 9/15; Finance Committee liaison; Negotiations subcommittee; Co-Chair 4/14 school override campaign; Co-Chair Newman Understanding Our Different Abilities; MIT Sloan MBA
Most Important Goal: The approval of strategic priorities based on competency areas identified in the Portrait of a Needham Graduate: critical thinking & problem solving, communication & collaboration, social & cultural responsiveness, personal responsibility & resiliency, and self-directed learning. We need to be bold in shaping NPS programs around this shared vision
AARON M. PRESSMAN (Candidate for re-election)
1012 South Street
Daytime Phone: 781-444-4032
Relevant Qualifications: I have served on the committee for six years, including this year as chair. I have focused on helping the schools integrate technology and gaining community support for major initiatives
Most Important Goal: With new high school classrooms added, Sunita Williams opening, and the start of full day kindergarten, the next major issues facing the school committee are planning to rebuild or renovate Mitchell and Pollard. We will also adopt a “Portrait of a Needham Graduate,” a process that will help guide curriculum and goals decisions for the next decade
TRUSTEE OF MEMORIAL PARK / VETERAN (for 3 years) Vote for 1
CHARLES J. MANGINE (Candidate for re-election)
40 Thorpe Road
Phone: 781-444-7459
Relevant Qualifications: 25 year Trustee
TRUSTEE OF MEMORIAL PARK / NON-VETERAN (for 3 years) Vote for 1
JAMES G. HEALY (Candidate for re-election)
1208 Greendale Avenue, #224
Email: jimhealy1959@gmail.com
Relevant Qualifications: Memorial Park Trustee (2014 – present); Former Selectman (twice Chair), Finance Committee (once Chair) and Town Meeting Member; Fallen Brave Memorial and Senior Center Committees; Attorney
Most Important Goal: Proper care to the monument area; renovations to the playing fields, including the upcoming field turf replacement and continuous improvements to the natural grass field; open and efficiently manage the new Memorial Park field house, ensuring access and availability to all Needham’s citizens and sports groups
TRUSTEE OF NEEDHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY (for 3 years) Vote for 2
KATHLEEN CAHILL ALLISON
200 South Street
Email: cahill-allison@comcast.net
Phone: 781-449-3657
Relevant Qualifications: I am a writer, editor, journalist, communications professional, mother, and long-time Needham resident who believes in the power of a free public library to benefit people at every stage of life
Most Important Goal: I will work to ensure the library maintains its high standards, keeping pace with rapidly changing information technology. The library should continue to be a welcoming place for people to congregate, learn and grow through free programs. With concern for the Needham taxpayer, I will provide careful budget oversight and encourage outside funding
ROBERT A. PETITT
80 Robinwood Avenue
Email: rob.petitt@gmail.com
Relevant Qualifications: As a father of two young children and an avid reader, I believe in the power of libraries to connect communities. I am also an active member of the Programming Committee of the Friends of the NPL
Most Important Goal: Our library needs a modest increase in funding to expand its already excellent programming, increase access to digital resources and retain its staff. The library also has an opportunity to expand its social media presence to help raise awareness of its many programs and resources
TRUSTEE OF NEEDHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY (for 2 years) Vote for 1
BARBARA R. HANDEL
43 Tillotson Road
Relevant Qualifications: Although my professional is as a Nurse Practitioner, I have been an avid reader for my entire life. The library is the center of opportunities to broaden one’s knowledge and afford entertainment
Most Important Goal: I hope to be active in the functioning of the library community
ANNA GIRALDO KERR
42 Moseley Avenue
Relevant Qualifications: As a small business owner, I know how to leverage resources to maximize results. As a Library Trustee I have helped increase the visibility of the Library through different collaborations
Most Important Goal: The most important goal is the implementation of the Library 2017-2021 strategic plan, especially outreach efforts to increase visibility among families and organizations. As a parent and citizen, I want to contribute to the strengthening of the library’s brand as an institution that fosters learning, innovation, and community building
BOARD OF HEALTH (for 3 years) Vote for 1
STEPHEN K. EPSTEIN (Candidate for re-election)
117 Richdale Road
Relevant Qualifications: Full-time practicing emergency physician, master’s degree in public policy, current Board member, service with many state and national groups on public health issues
Most Important Goal: The Board engages in a broad range of activities. Protecting our children from concussions and substance use, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and ensuring the safety of the elderly and memory impaired are a few of my goals, while continuing to work on disaster preparedness and being available as a resource on other health matters for our town
BOARD OF HEALTH (for * years) Vote for 2
* These three candidates are running for two seats that were added to the Board of Health at the 2018 Town Meeting. The candidate with the most votes will be seated for three years and the candidate with the second most votes will be seated for two years.
CHRISTINA S. MATHEWS
12 Bobsled Drive
Email: csmathews@gmail.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinam101/
Relevant Qualifications: I have worked in nutrition and breast cancer research, global health projects, health promotion and policy for the RI Department of Health, and currently consult on health communications projects
Most Important Goal: There has been growing concern from parents about teen vaping. After decades of progress in reducing youth smoking through policy and education, we are now seeing rapid increases in teen vaping. I hope that we can further our research on this issue, and support our children to make healthy decisions at this critical time of growth and development
ROBERT A. PARTRIDGE
38 Sutton Road
Relevant Qualifications: I’m an ER doctor with 30 years of experience, a master’s in public health, and an intimate understanding of health issues affecting those of all ages. I’m also a long-time Needham resident and parent
Most Important Goal: My goal is to promote and preserve community health initiatives that benefit all Needham residents. I want to help the Board apply the science behind public health to develop education, prevention, and appropriate regulatory initiatives—especially for timely issues like vaping, substance abuse, health care access, senior health, and teen safety
MATTHEW G. RUBIN
29 Yale Road
Email: mattgrubin@gmail.com
http://www.electrubin.com
Relevant Qualifications: I’ve worked with municipalities for clean, safe water. I’ve worked with homeless and at risk youth. Most recently, I started a company that promotes a proactive approach to mental health
Most Important Goal: I would like to bring a proactive approach to a handful of issues facing the BOH. I’d like address our environmental impact and water supply, e-cigarettes not being a safe alternative to cigarettes, and accessible mental health resources for youth, adults, and the elderly
PLANNING BOARD (for 5 years) Vote for 1
JEANNE S. MCKNIGHT (Candidate for re-election)
100 Rosemary Way, #336
Email: jeannemcknight@comcast.net
Phone: 781-449-5371
Relevant Qualifications: Former Framingham town planner; recently retired from a 22-year career as city solicitor/town counsel to Massachusetts municipalities. 30-year Needham resident. Seeking 3rd term on Board
Most Important Goal: Continue to expand Needham’s commercial tax base with vibrant development in suitable locations; enhance Downtown and Heights as walkable retail centers; plan for walk-to-train and over-55 multi-family housing; condition new projects through site plan review to protect neighborhoods, control traffic and parking, and provide landscaping
NEEDHAM HOUSING AUTHORITY (for 5 years) Vote for 1
SCOTT M. BRIGHTMAN (Candidate for re-election)
88 Standish Road
Relevant Qualifications: Incumbent and current Chair. Vast experience in low income and affordable housing. Past member of the COA, FinCom and Town Meeting
Most Important Goal: Over the past year we had a breach trust in regards to our wait list. We are in the process of identifying the scope of the problem. We are procured a trusted third party resource to evaluate the situation at hand and to review our processes. My primary goal is to restore trust with all the stakeholders
COMMISSIONER OF TRUST FUNDS (for 3 years) Vote for 1
JOSEPH P. SCALIA (Candidate for re-election)
99 Canterbury Lane
Email: jpscalia@comcast.net
Phone: 781-366-3152
Relevant Qualifications: 30 year career in the investment industry
Most Important Goal: To continue to be certain that fund assets are prudently managed and that proceeds are distributed according to the wishes of the donor
COMMISSIONER OF TRUST FUNDS (for 1 year) Vote for 1
DANIEL BURNS
5 Louart Drive
Relevant Qualifications: I am a CPA, and am Chief Financial Officer and Chief Compliance Officer of an investment firm
Most Important Goal: I would like to digitize and organize all information about the town’s trust funds, some of which date back many decades
PARK AND RECREATION (for 3 years) Vote for 2
CYNTHIA J. CHASTON (Candidate for re-election)
119 Fox Hill Road
Phone: 781-449-7776
Relevant Qualifications: Park & Recreation commissioner 2004-present, current vice chair/former chair; Town Meeting Member1992-present,Permanent Public Building Cmtee 1996-2000,Finance Cmtee 1990-1995,Trails advisory cmtee
Most Important Goal: To successfully operate the new Rosemary Recreation Complex for our first full season. As part of this family friendly complex we will offer new programming as well as continuing to offer our existing programs. I am committee to open space preservation, trails programs & making sure we have adequate funding for field maintenance
MICHELLE GEDDES (Candidate for re-election)
869 South Street
Email: myoung_00@hotmail.com
Relevant Qualifications: Currently serving as a member of the Park and Recreation Commission (elected in 2016); have been a member of the board of the Needham Youth Track Club for 6 years
Most Important Goal: Identifying and supporting programming for the newly renovated Rosemary Pool and multipurpose room
Voters Guide for Town Meeting Candidates
Candidates for Town Meeting are listed below, according to precinct.
Click on the tab below for your precinct. Candidates are listed in the order they will appear on the ballot: Incumbents appear first, alphabetically, then new candidates are listed alphabetically.
- Candidates for Precinct A
- Candidates for Precinct B
- Candidates for Precinct C
- Candidates for Precinct D
- Candidates for Precinct E
- Candidates for Precinct F
- Candidates for Precinct G
- Candidates for Precinct H
- Candidates for Precinct I
- Candidates for Precinct J
TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN EIGHT
PRECINCT A
LANCE R. BROWN, 18 Webster Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
WALTER D. HERRICK, 131 Pine Grove Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
JOHN DOWNEY HOTCHKISS, 42 Webster Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
MICHAEL S. MILLER, 33 William Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
IRWIN SILVERSTEIN, 44 Reservoir Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
NINA SILVERSTEIN, 44 Reservoir Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
TOWN MEETING MEMBER for one year / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN ONE
MATTHEW G. RUBIN, 29 Yale Road
No response received.
TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN EIGHT
PRECINCT B
STUART B. AGLER, 30 Parish Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
WILLIAM G. DOYLE, 208 Forest Street (Candidate for re-election)
The number one priority is upcoming construction/capital needs and our debt-service limit. By considering these issues at town meeting on a one-by-one basis we are not properly able to prioritize and end up approving lower priority projects like the field house vs schools. We are spending too much
JOHN J. FRANKENTHALER, 33 Brookside Road (Candidate for re-election)
1. Controlling the rate of real estate tax increases
2. Keeping small stores in town. Rent increases favor more banks, real estate agents, nail salons, medical practices
3. Rush hour and school start/end traffic
THOMAS M. JACOB, 67 Clarke Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
LORI A. MARKELL, 62 Cynthia Road (Candidate for re-election)
I lived in Needham since 1994. I feel t’s important to maintain the property values, but be cognizant of the impact of higher real estate taxes on some of the older citizens in the town. Pedestrian safety should be a priority as well as attracting business to the downtown area. Thank you.
GERALD C. ROVNER, 48 Cynthia Road (Candidate for re-election)
I believe three important issues are:
Housing: Ability of senior citizens to remain in Needham and young families to move into Needham
Infrastructure: Maintenance of roads and Town facilities
Traffic: Studies to establish safety for walkers and cyclists and how to alleviate traffic congestion
DOROTHEA VON HERDER, 208 Hunnewell Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
CHRISTINE A. MAWHINNEY, 44 Jarvis Circle
No response received.
TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for two years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN ONE
ADAM J. BLOCK, 848 Central Avenue
We need to ensure the quality of our programs, from our schools to our Council on Aging, and from ours roadways to our parks, while being fiscally responsible. We also need to balance development without forsaking our New England character & public safety. Responsible modest growth will help.
CARL MATTHEW SNOW, 50 Sunset Road
Teacher to child ratio & School Infrastructure improvements – Williams School is outstanding many other capital improvements are required
Traffic Safety – progress is good but more is needed
Tear downs & rebuilds – zoning changes helped, more is needed especially with the looming economic forecasts
TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN EIGHT
PRECINCT C
CARLOS AGUALIMPIA, 7 Jenna Circle (Candidate for re-election)
3 top priorities: 1) Fiscal responsibility, managing our funds efficiently & responsibly; 2) Infrastructure: prioritizing investments on the main needs (public facilities, roads, schools, etc.); 3) continue making the town attractive for investments to make Needham a nicer & better place to live in.
ANDREA E. LONGO CARTER, 18 Colonial Road (Candidate for re-election)
Comprehensive plan for future residential & commercial development considering infrastructure needs, overall Town resources, impact on schools & consistency with community values; Prudent financial management to ensure sustainability & flexibility; Careful decisions on new capital projects
LOIS R. GOLDBERG, 76 Brewster Drive (Candidate for re-election)
1. In speaking with school age children, the town needs more busses to transport the kids so they do not have to get on a bus an hour before school starts.
2. Continue providing safety and quality education in our schools
3. Attract and retain additional retail stores to town other than food stores
JOHN H. HASLIP, 43 Whitman Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
PAUL DAVID ISENBERG, 44 Stewart Road (Candidate for re-election)
I believe the 3 highest priorities facing our town can be summed up in 1 word: Sustainability.
1: Aging schools and their upkeep
2: Infrastructure is showing its age, especially roads
3: Our tax base is not likely to be this healthy for much longer. We need to anticipate tougher times ahead
R. CYNTHIA LANDAU, 57 Pine Street (Candidate for re-election)
1.Managing Growth; 2.Controlling Taxes; 3.Maintaining Small-Town Quality of Life. There is a lot of new construction in Needham – residential, municipal, & commercial. I believe that the issues around this growth make up our key challenges. I’d be happy to discuss constituents’ ideas and concerns
LISA W. ZAPPALA, 379 Charles River Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
RAMIN ABRISHAMIAN, 534 Charles River Street
No response received.
JOSHUA J. VINCENT, 1476 Great Plain Avenue
My name is Josh Vincent, candidate running for TMM of Precinct C. As a father of two young children, their safety is my utmost concern. I believe the highest priority facing the town is pedestrian safety. Another priority is to continue to improve our schools. And lastly public safety.
TOWN MEETING MEMBER for one year / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN ONE
DAVID R. COX, 8 Whiting Way
No response received.
TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN EIGHT
PRECINCT D
REGINALD C. FOSTER, 898 South Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
CHRISTOPHER J. GERSTEL, 184 Maple Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
JOSEPH J. LEGHORN, 40 Linden Street (Candidate for re-election)
Maintaining Needham’s character as a safe and welcoming town to all; maintaining and improving town facilities, services and schools; and, most importantly; in decision making, valuing the quality of life of our residents, and the common good, above the economic interests of the few.
KURT M. MULLEN, 11 Aldridge Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
AARON M. PRESSMAN, 1012 South Street (Candidate for re-election)
1. Supporting strong schools 2. Taking a hard look at new development and zoning rules 3.Balancing new revenue/taxes with spending priorities, upcoming building projects
EVAN F. RAUCH, 224 Country Way (Candidate for re-election)
Tax rate is reasonable but actual bills can be unaffordable for seniors and other long-term residents, town should do more to publicize deferrals and exemptions.
The town will soon have to either renovate the Emery Grover building or replace it.
Some transit to Boston but no transit around town.
M. KATHLEEN TEDOLDI, 13 Maple Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
ARTHUR WALITT, 46 Charles River Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
JANET K. BAUM, 1 Southfield Court
Increase resident diversity (ages, racial and cultural)
Increase viability of downtown with new businesses and entertainment sites
Improve traffic flow, parking and possibly provide more transportation to nearby trains and T stops
CAROLYN KAY BREEN, 23 Stonefield Court
No response received.
KAREN L. CALTON, 57 Oak Street
1. There needs to be a review of the restrictions on development which may result some tighter zoning regulations. 2. There is a need for a revised traffic control plan in response to growth in the area. 3. There needs to be a review of the town’s flood plan, specifically in Precinct D.
ROBERT A. PETITT, 80 Robinwood Avenue
1. Continuing to invest in our schools, reducing class sizes.
2. Promoting smart development in the downtown area, including mixed-use.
3. Enhancing Needham’s public spaces, including conservation land and the rail trail.
TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN EIGHT
PRECINCT E
DAVID K. BLAKELOCK, 217 Edgewater Drive (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
EDWARD V. COSGROVE III, 17 Laurel Drive (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
AMY HURLEY, 154 South Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
RONALD W. RUTH, 248 Warren Street (Candidate for re-election)
1. Preserving and enhancing the livability of the Town for its residents;
2. Support for the schools so that they may deliver high quality education opportunities; and
3. Careful fiscal management to maintain stability of Town finances.
VICTOR PAUL SEIDEL, 56 Green Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
PAUL A. SIEGENTHALER, 1049 Webster Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
KEITH M. LAFACE, 504 Chestnut Street
Safety-The safety of all in Needham is paramount and should be our primary concern.
Education-Needham schools must get the resources they need to facilitate our children’s learning.
Growth-We must promote growth for local businesses while we invest in community projects and embrace tech integration.
MARC. R. RUBIN, 41 Woodworth Road
-Raise funds to improve our infrastructure, services, and schools, while avoiding congestion or the loss of town character
-Ensure our roads are safe for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists
-While we hope racist graffiti in our schools were isolated events, respect for all must remain a core tenet
TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN EIGHT
PRECINCT F
BARRY J. COFFMAN, 837 Great Plain Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
JEFFREY D. HELLER, 1092 Central Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
Concern of speed and size of development in Needham. priorities are for town government to manage the growth of town at a reasonable pace
insure that Needham doesn’t lose his suburban feel.
the impact of that growth to be neighborhoods, traffic infrastructure and school and municipal services.
LESLIE A. KALISH, 48 Lake Drive (Candidate for re-election)
Schools, Affordable Housing, Environment
JEANNE S. MCKNIGHT, 100 Rosemary Way, #336 (Candidate for re-election)
Traffic & pedestrian safety including upgrading train crossings; water quality protection including implementing new storm water bylaw; providing housing options for empty nesters & young adults in locations that enhance retail area vitality without increasing school-age population.
WILLIAM J. OKERMAN, 100 Meetinghouse Circle (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
KAREN N. PRICE, 48 Lake Drive (Candidate for re-election)
Town affordability and diversity, reducing town’s carbon footprint, improving town communication
MICHAEL L. VERDUN, 35 Meetinghouse Circle (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN EIGHT
PRECINCT G
PETER W. BEACHAM, JR., 249 Harris Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
MICHAEL J. CRAWFORD, 213 Warren Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
JOHN D. CRIMMINGS, 32 Plymouth Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
MICHAEL A. DISTLER, 122 Washington Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
KENNETH B. FREUNDLICH, 54 Bradford Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
LAKSHMI BALACHANDRA, 86 Plymouth Road
Hi! I’m a Needham native(!) I want the best for this town; it was an amazing place to grow up. To make sure it stays that way for my 3 kids (7, 5, and 4), my priorities are 1) better/clean playgrounds w/bathrooms 2) sidewalk/street maintenance 3) encourage town retail (my mom owned Peacock Feather).
COLLEEN O. BEACHAM, 249 Harris Avenue
No response received.
ROBERT JOHN FERNANDEZ, 19 Bradford Street
Pedestrian Safety – I support the effort to improve pedestrian safety.
Education – I would back spending, when appropriate, to support our strong school system.
Housing Affordability – An availability of housing options for families and seniors is important for the vitality of our town.
TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN EIGHT
PRECINCT H
ILAN BARZILAY, 77 Thornton Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
HILARY HANSON BRUEL, 87 Thornton Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
MICHAEL A. DIENER, 30 Kenney Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
KAREN E. HAN, 34 Grosvenor Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
JOHN A. KINGSTON, 70 Grosvenor Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
EILEEN K. ORSCHELN, 67 Whittier Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
AMY M. WIXON, 92 Grosvenor Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN EIGHT
PRECINCT I
MICHAEL CENTOLA, 12 Hoover Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
ARTIE R. CROCKER, 17 Fairlawn Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
CLAIRE DEE ECSEDY, 20 Holland Terrace (Candidate for re-election)
Town Budget – balancing the budget is very important.
Pedestrian Safety – strive for pedestrian safety – society encourages us to walk more – need safe sidewalks and safe crosswalks.
Schools – budget is important, and it is important to have updated equipment and supplies.
JOEL S. GOLDEN, 22 Edwardel Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
JOSEPHINE OCHALLA, 657 Webster Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
PETER J. PINGITORE, 146 Hillcrest Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
ANNE W. WEINSTEIN, 3 Carey Road (Candidate for re-election)
There are many important issues that affect our lives in Needham: safety, transportation, traffic, education, zoning/development, clean energy/environment, civil rights, inclusiveness & equity. 3 priorities are pedestrian safety, zoning changes & impacts, being informed by data from Needham 2025.
KATHLEEN D. WHITNEY, 75 Kingsbury Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for two years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN ONE
[None]
TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN EIGHT
PRECINCT J
ROBERT E. DEUTSCH, 14 Highview Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
KEVIN J. KEANE, 88 Lexington Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
Development, schools, and open/green spaces
GEORGE F. KENT, 184 Richdale Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
DAVID P. MONTGOMERY, 361 Webster Street (Candidate for re-election)
Changing demographics and development and related demands on town resources;
Transparent communications inside and outside government to encourage broad civic involvement;
Coordination with public and private parties in neighboring municipalities addressing shared needs.
CHRISTOPHER MOONEY, 41 Lexington Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
PETER SERGEY PANOV, 19 West Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received.
CAROL I. URWITZ, 164 Greendale Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
A resident for over 20 years, our children educated in Needham public schools. Priorities for ongoing quality of life in Needham are long term planning for thoughtful use of our land, educational & financial resources, & to be open to the ideas and feedback of community and town meeting members.
Information on Voting in Needham
The Voters Guide is compiled by the League of Women Voters of Needham (LWVN) and is published by the Needham Times as a service to the community.
Disclaimer: The League of Women Voters is a non-partisan organization and, as such, does not endorse or oppose candidates for public office or any political party.
Last day to Register to Vote: Wednesday, March 20. The Town Clerk’s Office will be open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. for a special voter registration session.
Election Day: Tuesday, April 9, 2019; Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The last day to apply for an absentee ballot for the Annual Town Election is Monday, April 8, at noon. Applications are available on the Town Clerk’s website; scroll to the bottom of this page for absentee ballot applications. All absentee ballots must be returned to the Town Clerk’s office by the close of the polls on Election Day.
Where to vote: Please check your precinct location:
Precinct A: The Center at the Heights, 300 Hillside Avenue
Precinct B: The Center at the Heights, 300 Hillside Avenue
Precinct C: Newman Elementary School Gymnasium, 1155 Central Avenue
Precinct D: Newman Elementary School Gymnasium, 1155 Central Avenue
Precinct E: Broadmeadow School Performance Center, 120 Broad Meadow Road
Precinct F: Needham High School Gymnasium, 609 Webster Street
Precinct G: Needham High School Gymnasium, 609 Webster Street
Precinct H: Broadmeadow School Performance Center, 120 Broad Meadow Road
Precinct I: Mitchell School Gymnasium, 187 Brookline Street
Precinct J: Mitchell School Gymnasium, 187 Brookline Street
For more information, visit the Town Clerk’s website at needhamma.gov/voting. You may also contact the Town Clerk’s office at 781-455-7500.
Information contained in Voters’ Guide: The information on candidates for town-wide offices is printed directly as written by each candidate. No editing was done by the LWVN or the Needham Times, except for publication style. Candidates’ names are printed in the order in which they appear on the ballot.
The LWVN asked each town-wide candidate to list his or her relevant qualifications. They were also asked to answer the following question: What do you see as the most important goal you would like to achieve if elected (or re-elected)?
Town Meeting Member candidates are listed by precinct in this Guide and have been invited to answer the following question for the LWVN online Voters’ Guide: What are the 3 highest priority issues facing the town?
Residents may visit the Town Clerk’s office for information on attendance records for incumbent Town Meeting members.
Sample Ballots: Sample ballots for each precinct are posted on the Town’s website.
Write-ins: Please contact the Town Clerk’s office at 781-455-7500 to express interest in becoming a write-in candidate and to learn more about a write-in candidacy. Should you wish to vote for someone who is not listed on the ballot, you may do so by writing the name and address of the person (substantially as it appears on the voting list) on the line titled “write-in space only” provided for each office on the ballot after the list of candidates. Don’t forget to fill in the oval next to the write-in line with the special pen.
Absentee ballots: Voters who are out of town or unable to go to the polls may request an absentee ballot from the Town Clerk’s office. You may also contact the Town Clerk’s office at 781-455-7500 for details or with any questions. All absentee ballots must be returned to the Town Clerk’s office, by mail or in person, by the close of the polls on Election Day.
What is the League of Women Voters? The Needham League celebrates its 79th anniversary in 2019 and the National League of Women Voters will be 100 in 2020! For over 99 years, the League of Women Voters has been a leader in working to ensure that citizens have a role in making democracy work. The League is a non-partisan, multi-issue, grassroots membership organization. It is our mission to promote political responsibility through informed and active participation of citizens in local, state and national governments and to influence public policy through education and advocacy. As a non-partisan organization, the League neither supports nor opposes political parties or candidates. For further information about LWVN membership or activities, explore our website.
Rides to the polls: As a voter service to Needham residents, the LWVN will offer rides to the polls on Election Day. Please call 781-343-1031 and leave a message to request a ride…please call at least 24 hours before; rides cannot be guaranteed if you call on Election Day.
LWVN Warrant Discussion Meetings:
Monday, April 29, 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.
The Center at the Heights, 300 Hillside Avenue
New Town Meeting Member orientation with the Moderator begins at 6:45 p.m.
The LWVN sponsors Warrant Discussion Meetings as a public service to the community. This is an opportunity for all residents to learn and ask questions about Town Meeting Warrant articles in an informal setting. Warrant Meetings are open to all residents and all Town Meeting Members are especially encouraged to attend. Sponsors of articles will be present to provide explanations and answer questions; Finance Committee members will also be available to answer questions.
Annual Town Meeting: Town Meeting begins on Monday, May 6, at 7:30 p.m. and will be held at the James Hugh Powers Hall at Needham Town Hall. The Town Warrant will be available to residents at the Town Clerk’s office, The Needham Public Library, and on the town’s website.