2022 League of Women Voters of Needham Online Voter Guide

SELECT BOARD (for 3 years) Vote for 1

HEIDI FRAIL
29 Powers Street
voteheidifrail@gmail.com
www.voteheidifrail.com

Qualifications for Office: I am committed to Needham’s future and making thoughtful decisions for societal, economic, and environmental success. I am serious about facilitating communication and involvement. I am a former LWVN Board member, an elected member of the Democratic Town Committee, and a two term TMM.

Top Goal: Access to factual, timely, reliable information is essential for Needham’s residents to address the many complex issues before the town. Lack of access creates mistrust and frustration, and undermines the good work of local institutions upon which we all rely.  I’d like to make information more accessible, facilitate a respectful atmosphere and remove roadblocks to meaningful conversations and productive work on housing, climate change and the other issues facing the town.

TOWN CLERK (for 3 years) Vote for 1

THEODORA K. EATON (Candidate for re-election)
51 Bonwood Road
617-697-9245 (day)
Teaton@needhamma.gov

Qualifications for Office: Needham Town Clerk since 1982. Certified Master Municipal Clerk, Justice of the Peace, Notary Public, Chief Election Official, Records Access Officer, Burial Agent, Registrar Needham Vital Records, Commissioner to Qualify Oath of Office,  Past President  – Massachusetts Town Clerk’s Association.

Top Goal: One of the major goals is to work with our legislators to revise federal, state, and local election laws in a systematic and methodic manner that provides sufficient time for both the State Elections Division and local clerks to execute these laws prior to major elections.  Timing is critical for the proper conduct of elections.  Other major goals include implementation of the State Ethics Legislation, Public Records legislation, increase on-line Vital Statistic registrations.

ASSESSOR (for 3 years) Vote for 1

WALTER F. MCDONOUGH
211 Broad Meadow Road

No reply received.

SCHOOL COMMITTEE (for 3 years) Vote for not more than 3

CONSTANCE S. BARR (Candidate for re-election)
205 Edgewater Drive

No reply received.

ANDREA E. LONGO CARTER (Candidate for re-election)
18 Colonial Road
781-559-3420
alongocarter@gmail.com

Qualifications for Office: 7 yrs. on School Committee – Vice Chair, Chair, Finance Committee liaison, Negotiations subcommittee; 8 yrs. Town Meeting Member; Citizens for Needham Schools Past Chair; Co-Chair 2014 school operating override; Many years as PTC volunteer & program leader; MIT Sloan MBA

Top Goal: We need Town consensus to address school facility needs. A comprehensive School Master Plan identified building and programming needs at Mitchell, Pollard and High Rock. Our educational leaders recommend shifting to a 6-8 program on a single site (Pollard) for a richer student experience. School construction projects are expensive but we need to address aging facilities, ensure sufficient elementary capacity, and increase our flexibility to deliver an outstanding, innovative educational program.

ALISA M. SKATRUD
49 Sargent Street
votealisa@gmail.com
www.alisaskatrud.com

Qualifications for Office: Experience and Education: Co-chair, Citizens for Needham Schools; Co-Chair, Needham SEPAC (Special Education Parent Advisory Council); Needham Portrait of a Grad Committee; Town Meeting Member; 20-year finance career; Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, Master’s in Public Administration.

Top Goal: Challenges ahead include the academic/social/emotional fallout from the pandemic, multiple school construction projects, ensuring an inclusive and equitable education for all, and continuing to implement Portrait of a Needham Graduate goals. I will strive to increase community engagement and transparent communication so that these issues are tackled with the broad knowledge and support of the community. I believe I have the skills, experience, and temperament to face these challenges.

TRUSTEE OF MEMORIAL PARK / VETERAN (for 3 years) Vote for 1

MATTHEW L. CHING
198 Manning Street

Qualifications for Office: As a Marine, I have connections to Needham & fond memories of Memorial Park. I will serve in the best interests & intentions of the creators. It is a place for community activity and remembrance. Memorial Park should continue to serve these purposes in a practical, responsible, & respectful manner.

Top Goal:  An important goal is to is to carry on the vision and intentions of Memorial Park’s creators. Trustees should ensure the facility continues to be a desired, functional, well maintained green space for the residents of Needham to safely enjoy. Employing thoughtful & practical approaches to potential challenges or changes that may arise is vitally important. Trustees must try to balance the original vision, feasibility for the current needs, and a responsibility to all the residents of Needham.

TRUSTEE OF MEMORIAL PARK / NON-VETERAN (for 3 years) Vote for 1

MICHAEL A. FRAINI
58 Spring Street

Qualifications for Office: I am a life-long resident of Needham and the son of a World War II veteran.  I have coached sports for over 35 years, including many teams that have played at Memorial Park.  I am committed to honor all veterans of our town by preserving the integrity and maintenance of Memorial Park.

Top Goal: To maintain the integrity of the Veteran’s memorials, both in Memorial Park and other areas where Veteran’s monuments are displayed, and to ensure that Memorial Park and its structures are impeccably maintained and cared for so our citizens, athletes, and visitors can enjoy and appreciate the Park and what it represents.

TRUSTEE OF NEEDHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY (for 3 years) Vote for not more than 2

KATHLEEN CAHILL ALLISON (Candidate for re-election)
200 South Street
cahill-allison@comcast.net

Qualifications for Office: I am running for my second term, having served as secretary, vice-chair and chair of the Arts subcommittee. I have worked as a journalist, writer and communications professional. As a Trustee, I helped launch a new website, helped select the new library director and advanced our DEI goals.

Top Goal: Most important is the creation of a new 5-year strategic plan to guide the library forward in changing times. I envision the Needham Library as a unique and inclusive cultural center for people of all ages, abilities and origins. While continuing to be mindful of  taxpayer resources, I will work to ensure the library maintains its high standards, keeps pace with rapidly changing information technology and evolves as a welcoming place for a diversity of people to congregate, learn and grow

ROBERT A. PETITT (Candidate for re-election)
80 Robinwood Avenue

Qualifications for Office: Member of the Library board since 2019 and current chair; helped to advocate for new Library website and assisted in the selection process for a new director.

Top Goal: I hope to see the Library continue to expand its visibility in the community and to enhance its digital collections.  The Library is about to embark on a new strategic plan this year, and running that process in a thoughtful, comprehensive manner will be critical to ensuring that the Library continues to meet (and exceed) the many needs of the community.

BOARD OF HEALTH (for 3 years) Vote for not more than 2

STEPHEN K. EPSTEIN (Candidate for re-election)
117 Richdale Road
drsteveepstein@gmail.com

Qualifications for Office: Emergency Physician, Beth Israel Lahey Health
Assistant Professor, Harvard Medical School
Masters in Public Policy (Health Policy), Harvard Kennedy School
Longtime Needham resident (20+ years), married with two children

Top Goal: Guiding Needham out of the COVID-19 pandemic while improving a healthy working and living environment for all Needhamites, and supporting transparency on public health issues.

TEJAL K. GANDHI
16 Bess Road

Qualifications for Office: I am an internist with an MPH and have practiced primary care/inpatient medicine. My focus is improving the quality/safety of healthcare, including having served as Chief Quality Officer at Partners Healthcare. Currently I am the Chief Safety Officer for Press Ganey.

Top Goal: I am running for the Needham Board of Health because I believe my clinical, healthcare leadership, and public health background would add significant value, particularly during the current times. I have expertise in safety, equity, and measurement of impact of health interventions, and also co-lead my company’s COVID response efforts. I am committed to a collaborative science-based approach within the Board, with the Department of Health and Human Services, and with the community.

PLANNING BOARD (for 5 years) Vote for 1

Planning Board is the only contested office with three candidates running for one seat. For this reason, Planning Board candidates were asked to answer four additional questions (500 characters each):
-What experience do you have with zoning? How will you be prepared to balance the complicated zoning regulations with the needs or wants of the town, residents, businesses and developers?
-How would you suggest the Planning Board involve and communicate with residents regarding its deliberations and decisions?
-What role should the Planning Board play in diversifying housing options in town?
-How should zoning bylaws be changed to encourage or demand more green space and to reduce our carbon footprint?

ARTIE R. CROCKER
17 Fairlawn Street
781-771-6651
artie.crocker@gmail.com
VoteArtieCrocker.com

Qualifications for Office: As Conservation Commissioner I work to regulate developments to protect Needham’s fragile wetlands. Community Preservation Committee, I help decide what town projects deserve funding, Town Meeting member I vote on zoning and bylaw changes. Finally, I am a renewable energy specialist and an engineer.

Top Goal: We are at a critical point in time where we have to increase the energy efficiency and sustainability in all our future building projects and codes. We need to protect our environment, the earth, water and the air we breathe; tomorrow is no longer an option. Low-income housing and the diversity in our community is part of what defines who we are as a community. Let us come together as a community with respect for everyone in our town. The Planning Board could and should be leading by example.

Zoning Experience: I have been before the planning board for over 16 years either in support of a zoning protect/article or in opposition of a protect/article. Each time I carefully read, researched and weighed the pros and cons of each situation. I always take into account the balance between quality of life of adjacent neighborhoods, the overall community of Needham and the important part which developers and businesses play in our town. All decisions come from that balance and the current zoning laws.

Involving and Communicating with Residents: Communication leads to more community involvement, and thus, better, stronger decisions. Transparency is essential. The voice of neighborhood groups needs to be respected. We can do this by involving residents early in the process and expanding access to meetings, including working group meetings between the Board and developers. In addition to social media and the town website, it should be incumbent on anyone coming before the PB to reach out to local residents personally or through the mail.

Diversifying Housing: Diversifying housing options in town takes cooperation among the Planning Board, Select Board, state agencies and others. Needham is an attractive community for good reason. Our schools & facilities, our rail & bus lines. Increase housing density in close proximity to public transportation. Reduce restrictions for current zoning of Accessory Dwelling Units allowing more options for residents to age in place. Always be open to creative ideas that help Needham be more open and diversified.

Environmental Zoning Changes:  There should be a minimum green space requirement for all new developments. Needham should immediately create and implement a Tree Policy so that developers are not unnecessarily removing mature trees. New commercial buildings over certain sqft should be LEED Silver or Gold Certified. Any building funded with Needham taxpayer dollars, especially but not limited to schools, should have a net-zero goal. Promote climate awareness practices by using the successful Needham Unplugged as a model.

JUSTIN D. MCCULLEN
22 Miller Street
781-474-2807 (day)
857-991-0743 (evening)
jmccullen@gmail.com
www.justinforneedham.org

Qualifications for Office: I know how to work within a team and understand that while we may not agree on everything, it’s important not to sacrifice meaningful progress in the face of differing opinions. Advancement through cooperation and compromise is in my experience, incredibly effective at enacting positive change.

Top Goal: I look forward to bringing town-wide comprehensive planning back to the top of the list for the planning board rather than being driven by reactions to proposals.  My goal is to bring robust short and long term planning skills to the board while ensuring that meaningful public and stakeholder engagement drives the direction of the board. My approach to planning centers on listening to impacted groups and building consensus.

Zoning Experience: I have years of experience working in high-pressure situations that require short-term and long-term logistics planning. Transportation planning is integral to town planning and must not be an after-thought. My experience on TMAC has shown me that it is important to balance the needs of the entire town and build a long term framework supported by public consensus. I want to bring my experience, passion and respect for the benefits of proper planning instead to the source of frustration for many

Involving and Communicating with Residents: Public comment is essential in the planning process. In addition to encouraging written comments, I would support dedicated time to allow for public input before final votes on projects. I believe in transparency and accountability in public elected boards and this can only be ensured by following the public process. The board can also better utilize social and local media outlets to ensure the public is involved in every step of the process.

Diversifying Housing: Zoning changes do not create large-scale change in a bubble. In housing availability and affordability, zoning is a small piece of a large, complicated equation. The Planning Board should look at the approach of other towns in the region and work towards consensus to modernize zoning laws to reflect the needs of our community.
ADUs are an example of a partial but pragmatic solution. It is a small but meaningful step the Town can take towards more flexibility in housing options.

Environmental Zoning Changes: I would support a study to creating incentives for “green zoning” and modifying our zoning bylaws to emphasize investment in better, more energy efficient buildings. A ‘density bonus’ could incentivize developers to exceed the normally allowed floor-to-area ratio. This would allow for denser residential housing developments in exchange for complying with energy efficient building standards like LEED. I support analyzing all the options and engaging with Town residents.

OSCAR E. MERTZ III
67 Rybury Hillway
electoscarmertz@gmail.com
www.electoscarmertz.com

Qualifications for Office: I am a LEED-certified planner and architect. I have worked on projects around the world for more than 30 years. I understand the ins and outs of design, planning, and development, and I can explain the jargon of policy and planning principles in an accessible way for all residents.

Top Goal: In order to represent our collective vision, it is key to seek out the voices of all residents. We must approach with intention the changes needed in order to evolve as a vibrant, just, and diverse community. It’s not about just one issue and it is critical we see how everything is connected. Determining how to create the greatest plan with all of these elements–housing, transportation, vibrant commercial areas, green space, climate action–is a top priority and has been the focus of my career.

Zoning Experience: Throughout my career I have responded to zoning regulations across the US and in other countries to create new planning and design projects on a variety of scales. I have also collaborated in revising zoning documents with municipalities to create new or transform and invigorate existing areas of towns and cities. In all cases, these experiences have given me perspective to find common ground and the balance among stakeholder, interest group, public sector and private development goals.

Involving and Communicating with Residents:  I want to see more regular discussions and community engagement activities to assist the Board in goal-setting for town issues, and to foster and establish trust from our Needham community.  Learning about what residents value and what they want for the future of our town is key and will help with bylaw and code reforms.  I’m in favor of a Facebook page similar to the recently launched School Committee page to help keep residents informed.  I would also like to host regular Zoom conversations.

Diversifying Housing: The Board should help engage and educate residents about housing affordability challenges and work toward a vision with appropriate zoning reforms to guide future growth. The Housing Plan Working Group, of which I am a member, is engaging the community and analyzing current trends and housing needs to formulate initiatives for the coming year. Implementing these zoning reforms will provide opportunities for greater housing choices, making Needham more affordable for new and current residents.

Environmental Zoning Changes:  Reforms related to the MBTA Communities law will require bylaw changes to allow more multi-family housing near transit with modest housing density increases. An important and recognizable environmental benefit of housing density is more opportunities for shared green spaces for residents to enjoy. These targeted changes will reduce our carbon footprint with more energy efficient housing on a parcel. Building near transit stations promotes walkable neighborhoods and reduces car and parking needs.

Planning Board Answers Questions from Green Needham

See the Green Needham website.

COMMISSIONER OF TRUST FUNDS (for 3 years) Vote for 1

JOSEPH P. SCALIA (Candidate for re-election)
99 Canterbury Lane

No reply received.

PARK AND RECREATION (for 3 years) Vote for not more than 2

CYNTHIA J. CHASTON (Candidate for re-election)
119 Fox Hill Road
cjchaston@aol.com

Qualifications for Office: Park & Recreation Commission since 2004, current chair; Town Meeting Member since 1992; Permanent Public Building cmtee 1996-2000, Finance cmtee1990-1995, Trails advisory cmttee. Needham Exchange Club member/past president, Charles River Center board of directors/treasurer, Melick Foundation founder

Top Goal: To protect the Town’s interests with respect to open space, maximize value of recreation parcels & review the status/plans for programs and park buildings. As part of that goal we plan to address our outdoor court resources and re-evaluate the structure of our programs. Current high priority projects include improved softball fields, addressing trash problems at parks & working with Parks superintendent to continue maintenance program.

MICHELLE GEDDES (Candidate for re-election)
869 South Street

Qualifications for Office: Have served 2 terms with the Park & Recreation Commission.  Active member of the Needham Community with 2 children under the age of 12 who participate in Needham youth sports and programing.  Board member of the Needham Youth Track Program. Grew up in Needham & went through Needham public schools

Top Goal: Establish a plan for an outdoor, communal space to accommodate the needs and interests of middle school & high school aged youth.

TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN TWENTY-FOUR

STUART B. AGLER, 30 Parish Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

KATHLEEN KREY ALWART, 51 Grasmere Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

MARIANNA BORRELLI, 651 Central Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

LAURA W. DORFMAN, 66 Jarvis Circle (Candidate for re-election)
The highest priority is both affordable housing and housing for the elderly and those with disabilities. The town needs to continue to address diversity and inclusion initiatives which are related to housing accessibility. Funding for our historic resources and open space is also important.

MARK N. DORFMAN, 66 Jarvis Circle (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

JOHN J. FRANKENTHALER, 33 Brookside Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

ELIZABETH J. GRIMES, 12 Clarke Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

CIFFORD OWEN HAYDEN, 12 Crescent Road (Candidate for re-election)
1) Maintain excellent infrastructure and staffing for our schools.
2) Deepen our commitment to becoming a more diverse town through housing diversity, affordable housing options, and targeted assistance.
3) Reinforce government to community communications.

THOMAS M. JACOB, 67 Clarke Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

CATHERINE E. KURKJIAN, 43 Briarwood Circle (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

CHRISTINE A. MAWHINNEY, 44 Jarvis Circle (Candidate for re-election)
1. Town infrastructure
2. Asset allocation at the schools
3. Planful development

KIM MARIE NICOLS, 12 Crescent Road (Candidate for re-election)
1) Maintain excellent school system by supporting proposed budgets and the renovation/replacement of outdated school buildings.
2) Continue diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in town, school, and community organizations.
3) Create affordable housing options through zoning and development.

GERALD C. ROVNER, 48 Cynthia Road (Candidate for re-election)
1) Real Estate: The cost of purchasing a home in Needham, the median price of which in ’21 was $1.3M; 2) Diversity issues currently the subject of a Task Force; and 3) Traffic issues, especially in the area of the former Muzi property as it is developed; all of which impact the quality of life

SARAH ANN TORAN, 945 Central Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
Revitalize Needham’s Centers
The most useful and efficient development of the Ridge Hill property.
A community center which would include hockey rink and swimming pool.
? Location – Muzi property

PETER B. BENFIELD, 865 Central Avenue I402
1. Inflation: how to keep current level of services without significantly raising taxes.
2. Increase diversity of housing needed for seniors to stay in town and young families to become a Needham residents.
3. How to retain and attract town teachers and employees during low unemployment.

ABBY B. BERNSTEIN, 4 Jarvis Circle
Enable people of all backgrounds to afford homes in our vibrant town. Promote social and racial justice, transparency, and community engagement in policing practices, supported by effective mental health services. Champion the expansion and preservation of green spaces, forests, and trails.

ORR Y. BERNSTEIN, 4 Jarvis Circle
As Needham’s unique charm continues to draw new residents, we need to (1) invest in our school buildings to maintain healthy class sizes; (2) reevaluate infrastructure needs to deal with rising traffic; and (3) support small businesses across town to maintain a fun and vibrant walkable community.

WENDY Z. BLOM, 89 Parish Road
1. Strategic development and zoning updates for more housing choice to keep Needham affordable and to encourage green construction.
2. Supporting local businesses for a thriving downtown
3. Promoting equity in the schools and diversity in Town departments

JEAN W. CHILDS, 865 Central Avenue A519
1. Maintaining strong schools. 2. Continuing care for Natural Resources. 3. Keeping a balance with fiscally feasible expenses for the whole town. As a League of Women Voters of Wellesley past president and past Town Meeting Member, I have a background in town government.

JOAN M. DAYA-DALY, 28 Sunset Road
– Recovery from the pandemic for families & small businesses
– Support school programming with necessary infrastructure improvements & planning ahead for future needs.
– Increase community engagement of residents of all ages & backgrounds to bring a broad spectrum of voices to the table

JUDITH DERNBURG, 865 Central Avenue A416
The town of Needham lacks diversity and should address this. First is the lack of affordable housing. Prices make it not affordable for middle and working class families. The second priority is public transportation. The third is making the town welcoming to minorities.

CATHY M. FREEDBERG, 112 Jarvis Circle
Communication: Create more opportunities for residents to be heard by elected officials.
Schools: Understand the priority of future projects. Factors include funding, location, projected enrollment, and swing space, etc.
Housing: Promote policies to encourage developers to build affordable housing.

WILLIAM B. KING, 865 Central Avenue H501
1. Dealing with inflation: Continuing Town services w/o excessive tax increase.
2. Kickstarting affordable housing development: Allocate max 80% CPA funding to same.
3. Environmental sustainability: Review Bylaws, permitting practices, daily operations to develop and begin Climate Action Plan.

SARA R. LEVY, 61 Briarwood Circle
No response received

ERIC G. PRESSMAN, 33 Andrea Circle
1. Revitalize the downtown area. Make it a destination for dining and shopping.
2. Keep our schools strong and allow them to innovate
3. Ensure Needham remains a place people want to live by providing funding for infrastructure, community building, and safety resources.

TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN TWENTY-FOUR

CARLOS AGUALIMPIA, 7 Jenna Circle (Candidate for re-election)
– Become greener: increase solar & protect our forests/water
– Fiscally responsible: ensure funds optimized, spent towards priorities, & debt under control
– Careful Zone plan: to remain a desirable suburban community (strong property values) & attractive to business (spec. in the business corridor)

PAUL S. ALPERT, 116 Pine Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

PETER A. ALPERT, 108 Locust Lane (Candidate for re-election)
Affordable housing, diversity and economic equity, responsible development.

JOSEPH P. BARNES, 589 High Rock Street (Candidate for re-election)
#1. Continue to revitalize the downtown with outdoor dining and additional shopping. #2. Promote the NHA proposal for refurbishing their low/moderate housing locations. #3. Support the renovation of Emery Grover building.

PAULA R. CALLANAN, 1699 Great Plain Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
1.Lack of affordable housing
2. Climate change
3. Economic development for our downtown

ANDREA E. LONGO CARTER, 18 Colonial Road (Candidate for re-election)
Reach consensus on school master plan capital projects and timing; Strategic plan for residential and commercial development to diversify housing while considering impact on schools and Town resources; Encourage broader and more diverse representation on Town Boards, Committees and elected officials

DAVID R. COX, 8 Whiting Way (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

GILBERT W. COX JR., 49 Colonial Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

MARK J. GLUESING, 48 Mackintosh Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

LOIS R. GOLDBERG, 76 Brewster Drive (Candidate for re-election)
Expand services for mental and behavioral health needs in the community; Alleviate congestion and provide safety by adding new arrows to existing traffic lights on Central Avenue and Great Plain Ave and Chestnut St. during peak travel times; more communication on how to help those in need in town.

JOHN H. HASLIP, 43 Whitman Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

PAUL DAVID ISENBERG, 44 Stewart Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

R. CYNTHIA LANDAU, 57 Pine Street (Candidate for re-election)
Housing (working towards a more diverse and just community); climate change (a tree ordinance and a town-wide tree survey); managing commercial growth (keeping new proj. in scale with our town) are the three highest priority issues facing Needham. I am dedicated to working toward those goals.

JOSHUA W. LEVY, 1606 Great Plain Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
Sustainable financing of Pollard and Mitchell school building projects
Reviewing residential zoning to make the town more accessible to younger families of all backgrounds
Overcoming worker shortages to hire and retain top talent among Town staff

JAMES D. MASTERMAN, 53 Canavan Circle (Candidate for re-election)
Having lived in town for almost 40 years, the bedrock of Needham has been and will continue to be our schools. There needs to be responsible balance between residential and commercial development. I would like more attention to beautification of public spaces and streetscapes.

LOUISE L. MILLER, 5 North Hill Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
•renovate or replace aging or obsolete school facilities in a fiscally controlled way mindful of diverse abilities to pay added taxes
•maintain and attract a diverse population through zoning that respects age and income differences
•ensure effective participatory government and value public opinion

SUSAN B. NECKES, 36 Gay Street (Candidate for re-election)
I would like to advocate for Needham to address affordable housing, school buildings still strongly in need of expansion and/or upgrades (Mitchell, Pollard, High Rock), and creating a more welcoming, inclusive and diverse community.

MICHAEL E. O’BRIEN, 1600 Great Plain Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
As Needham emerges from the COVID pandemic, continue to build a town infrastructure that is safe, equitable and sustainable; establish a comprehensive School Master Plan addressing present challenges and is forward thinking; develop the business sector to include new opportunities for town revenue.

TED OWENS, 54 Whitman Road (Candidate for re-election)
1. Affordable housing, 2. Reasonable commercial development. 3. Reasonable property taxes

PAUL B. TILLOTSON, 21 Howe Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

JOSHUA J. VINCENT, 1476 Great Plain Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

REBECCA WABER, 15 Powder House Circle (Candidate for re-election)
1)Data-based oversight to ensure goals are truly met, from “minor” issues like, does the dog park we invested in meet people’s needs or does it require adjustments, to “deep” issues related to equity in our schools and police 2) Increasing housing affordability 3) Funding long term school capacity

LISA W. ZAPPALA, 379 Charles River Street (Candidate for re-election)
The highest priority issues are those that the residents would like focused on and prioritized financially. Our job as TMM is to vote the warrant articles each year with the interest of our residents in the Precinct we represent; for me C. Issues in past have been funding Schools; open space/fields.

EDWARD M. QUINLAN, 100 Gay Street
#1 Priority is making Climate Change mitigation a high priority for Needham.
#2 Priority is to make more affordable housing available in town, especially in areas close to mass transit.
#3 Priority is to continue to provide responsible funding for our schools.

TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN TWENTY-FOUR

JANET K. BAUM, 1 Southfield Court (Candidate for re-election)
Affordable housing to allow young families to move in and seniors to stay in town with use of livable sized ADUs. Increased diversity in police, town government and town employees,
Expand commercial development while not overtaxing roads and town costs.

KAREN L. CALTON, 387 High Rock Street (Candidate for re-election)
My duty is to represent the interests of Precinct D & always consider the well-being of the entire Town. I continue to be ever mindful of my duty to attend Town Meeting sessions faithfully so I do not deprive Precinct D residents of their constitutionally entitled representation.

HOLLY ANNE CLARKE, 1652 Central Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
Three priority issues facing the town are creating greater transparency and fuller public inclusion in decision making, prioritizing and sustainably providing the town’s services and its buildings, and fully planning for all development, including increases in traffic.

CYNTHIA L. CONTURIE, 96 Robinwood Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
Needham needs to uphold our high quality school system and town services, promote a safe environment, and ensure transparency in government.  We need to continue to improve traffic safety, particularly near schools. Citizens need to be informed and encouraged to participate in town decisions.

KATHRYN L. D’ADDESIO, 110 Linden Street (Candidate for re-election)
Providing more diversified housing opportunities
Making responsible spending decisions for now and in the future
Continue to encourage and support the revitalization of the down town.

DOROTHY H. DESIMONE, 40 Linden Street (Candidate for re-election)
Maintain a diverse caring community that protects & respects all residents, & ensure our elected officials are transparent, & working for the common good; Protect open space, conservation land, & our natural environment; Provide an excellent education to youth to assure their future & our democracy

ROSS M. DONALD, 25 Chambers Street Unit H (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

BRUCE T. EISENHUT, 106 Marked Tree Road (Candidate for re-election)
Provide housing opportunities for low and moderate income families and the elderly on fixed incomes, protect and enhance the natural resources, open space and recreational land and carefully follow and review Planning Board recommendations and process.

REGINALD C. FOSTER, 898 South Street (Candidate for re-election)
Affordable Housing – address shortage in Needham for all residents whatever your income level.
Growth – balance growth with preserving the essential character of the Town.
MBTA Train Honking – it’s time to find the resources and implement fixes that will restore peace and quiet to our community.

JOSEPH J. LEGHORN, 40 Linden Street (Candidate for re-election)
First, a town that is committed to justice and fairness for all. Second, a town that is truly diverse and welcoming to all regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual and gender orientation or economic status. Finally, a town committed to doing more than its fair share to address climate change.

RICHARD J. LUNETTA, 182 Marked Tree Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

JUSTIN DOUGLAS MCCULLEN, 22 Miller Street (Candidate for re-election)
Traffic Safety (Multimodal, Complete streets, etc) Growth and Development (housing affordability and availability & Commercial development) , and Schools (Future infrastructure planning)

GARY B. MCNEILL, 54 Deerfield Road (Candidate for re-election)
I wish to focus on what makes Needham Great ! I do not see them as Issues but Challenges:
Great Place to Live : COMMUNITY ! I am a Needhamite and wish to continue to make this home.
Schools : we have Outstanding Schools and wish to continue this Excellence particularly Fiscally.
Taxes : Affordable

STEVEN E. MOCK, 268 Marked Tree Road (Candidate for re-election)
1) Climate change
2) Affordable housing
3) Responsible development

EMMA NAVALES, 82 Deerfield Road (Candidate for re-election)
I believe the three highest priority issues facing our town are updating and maintaining schools and public buildings; continuing work to promote better diversity, equity and inclusion practices; and fiscal responsibility.

CAROL L. B. PATEY, 32 Linden Street (Candidate for re-election)
I believe efficient, transparent government and an involved, informed citizenry are critical goals. Priority Issues: (1) investing in high-quality education for all children, (2) implementing environmentally conscious policies, and (3) ensuring thoughtful and controlled development in Needham.

ROBERT A. PETITT, 80 Robinwood Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

AARON M. PRESSMAN, 1012 South Street (Candidate for re-election)
As a school committee member, I know we must agree on an affordable, smart plan for upgrading Pollard, Mitchell, and other buildings. Improving the diversity of town board is beyond critical. And we need to create more affordable housing without overburdening town resources.

EVAN F. RAUCH, 224 Country Way (Candidate for re-election)
1. More dense and affordable housing that fits reasonably well into the surrounding community, both for diversity and the environment.
2. Better non-automotive transportation options, including bicycle trails.
3. Need to hire and keep lower wage workers (bus drivers, teaching assistants, etc.)

THOMAS F. SOISSON, 128 Maple Street (Candidate for re-election)
Mass Section 3A Zoning Act, which calls for high density(15 units/acre) residential zoning within a half mile of MBTA stations
Policing methods that deal with mental illness rather than criminal intent
Avoiding tax overrides while improving buildings and facing storm deluges

JOSEPH ABRUZESE, 30 Bridle Trail Road
My top three priorities with the Town are to improve communication and engagement with residents, ensure our officials operate in the best interests of the Town without any conflicts of interest, and to support the Town’s ongoing investments to maintain our indoor and outdoor public resources.

MARGARET ABRUZESE, 30 Bridle Trail Road
Three issues which are high priority to me are: Removing barriers to contacting elected officials; enforcing conflict of interest and ethical standards for our elected/appointed officials; and addressing the loss of Needham Times as a check/balance on town government.

ALEXANDRA ROSE BLAUER, 59 Robinwood Avenue
1. Responsible Spending and Growth
2. Preserving our Natural Surroundings
3. Creating a Vibrant and Inclusive Community for All Residents and Businesses

JEREMY J. CHAO, 96 Maple Street
Improve quality of living space though affordable cost and sensible commercial development.
Support the needs of young families though maintaining school excellence and upgrading public space for recreation
Seek alternative ways to reduce noise pollution from train horns and landscaper power tools.

ANNA GIRALDO-KERR, 42 Moseley Avenue
Transparency of intent and action from town leadership, TMM, & elected boards is essential for an effective and equitable town governance.
Effective and consistent communication from town leadership with the community at large not just a selected few.
A more definitive commitment to climate change.

JANIS M. SOMA, 106 Marked Tree Road
Communication: Good information flow between constituents, Town Meeting Members, Boards and Committees.
Housing: Development of housing for individuals and families with a variety of incomes, ages, and backgrounds.
Climate: Development and realization of a climate action plan for Needham.

JOSHUA BRIAN TARSKY, 1065 South Street
My priorities are education, public health and safety, and community building through diversity and inclusivity. As a middle and high school administrator, father of two, attorney with the MA National Guard, and former US Army Special Forces Soldier, I am committed to public service and advocacy.

TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN TWENTY-FOUR

CONSTANCE S. BARR, 205 Edgewater Drive (Candidate for re-election)
I believe these to be high priorities
1) The School Master Plan, to renovate/replace the Pollard &Mitchell Schools: timeline and financing.
2) Equity, Inclusion& Anti-racism. Affordable housing.
3) Maintenance of aging municipal buildings & facilities, and schools.

ROBERT R. BRAMAN, 76 Lawton Road (Candidate for re-election)
The town’s top priorities should be public safety, public works, and education; and supporting the infrastructure to deliver these essential services in thoughtful, fiscally responsible ways. It’s appropriate as a community to reflect on how issues of equity and inclusion should inform this work.

PHILIP EDWARD BRANDISH, 44 Pleasant Street (Candidate for re-election)
(1) Providing for growth and evolving our education infrastructure in a changing world, (2) Steadily updating zoning, town policies and planning of capital projects to actively shape our community, (3) integrated support of seniors in our shared future.

CYNTHIA J. CHASTON, 119 Fox Hill Road (Candidate for re-election)
1. Balancing the need for infrastructure, school & recreation spending with financial resources available
2. Zoning/planning in a responsible manner to preserve the quality of life & maximize revenue within that constraint
3. Ensure town govt is adequately staffed & our staff are treated equitably

PETER ROBERT COHENNO, 481 Chestnut Street (Candidate for re-election)
1. Upholding the community’s commitment to our schools.
2. Ensuring that new economic development is appropriate for its neighborhood and doesn’t negativizing impact residential homes.
3. Fostering positive change while recognizing long-standing strengths of the town.

ANN M. COSGROVE, 17 Laurel Drive (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

EDWARD V. COSGROVE III, 17 Laurel Drive (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

THEODORE M. CROWELL, 39 Lawton Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

CAROL A. FACHETTI, 187 South Street (Candidate for re-election)
The School Master Plan, renovating several schools and public facilities (2) Maintaining an appropriate tax base to provide a high level of services within a reasonable tax structure for all (3) Housing and zoning to incentivize affordable, accessible and senior housing to serve residents.

AMY HURLEY, 154 South Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

KEITH M. LAFACE, 504 Chestnut Street (Candidate for re-election)
Let’s strive for Needham’s safety by investing in our infrastructure for travel through town and promoting acceptance for all. Needham’s education draws many here and schools need resources to deliver excellence. We must encourage growth for local businesses to offset the cost of community projects.

BONNIE L. MCLELLAN, 521 Chestnut Street (Candidate for re-election)
1. Protecting & ensuring the future of our town through investment in education, thoughtful planning for new & old development and protection of green space 2. Helping to nurture a vibrant town center and reduce taxes by supporting local businesses 3. Promoting a safe, diverse and welcome community

PHILIP R. MURRAY, 453 Warren Street (Candidate for re-election)
Maintain quality and standards of our public schools; improve traffic flow through Needham Center; promote more affordable housing through zoning changes allowing more density and multi-unit dwellings

WILLIAM J. PAULSON, 111 Sutton Road (Candidate for re-election)
Mitchell / Pollard, Muzi Ford plans, Diversity Equity and Inclusion

FORD H. PECKHAM, 26 Lawton Road (Candidate for re-election)
Priorities: fiscal prudence, public safety, efficient use of tax dollars. Qualifications: terms on the FinCom and as Trust Commissioner, 24+ years as Town Meeting Member, a graduate degree in Economics, and a career in financial institution regulation.

PHILIP V. ROBEY, 12 Fletcher Road (Candidate for re-election)
1) Hiring for unfilled teacher positions (30) and for FY2023 teacher needs (25)( Fincom).
2) Resolve the Carter Mill Project (formerly Avery Green, Carter Factory) (Select Board).
3) Bring clarity and resolve to building projects; Emery Grover, Hillside, Master School Plan (PPBC)

RONALD W. RUTH, 248 Warren Street (Candidate for re-election)
1. Quality of education with a broad based curriculum, including the arts. Accelerate the improvements to the physical plant.
2. Encourage Town to embrace a diverse citizenry: diverse in race, ethnicity, economic means and housing options.
3. Ensure a stable tax base/Town finances.

VICTOR PAUL SEIDEL, 56 Green Street (Candidate for re-election)
We are fortunate to live in a great town that has much to offer all citizens. Our priorities should be to maintain our top-rated school system by cost-effective facility upgrades; to work on sensible planning to maintain our town character, and to help local businesses thrive in post-pandemic world.

PAUL A. SIEGENTHALER, 1049 Webster Street (Candidate for re-election)
1) Managing the high cost of housing in this town, to enable residents from a range of economic demographics
2) Strengthening diversity and how we teach and reinforce acceptance to our children
3) Fiscal discipline – balancing great opportunities with reasonable taxes

CYNTHIA J. WOLFE, 191 Fox Hill Road (Candidate for re-election)
1. Fiscal responsibility in addressing services and infrastructure spending with a solid plan for future projects
2. Zoning changes that create housing options and optimize the aesthetics of the town
3. Maintaining the highest standards in education in a safe and supportive environment

ADAM J. BLOCK, 103 High Rock Street
No response received

JULIA DALE MAHR, 124 Edgewater Drive
No response received

MICHAEL L. NIDEN, 178 South Street
Housing -As a third generation Needhamite, and a realtor, we are faced with a serious affordable housing shortage. Needham needs to create larger high density housing zones along the commuter rail.
Needham School System- Shoot to be number one
Protect Needham’s Historic Structures i.e. Emery Grover

PETER J. O’NEIL, 198 Fair Oaks Park
After decades of stability, our population grew 11% in the 2010s. Housing units grew 8%. We need a coherent plan to manage this ongoing growth trend.
On this and all issues, we need to always factor in sustainability and equity.
Accelerate ongoing efforts to improve access to Town information.

YASODHARA PARUCHURU, 16 Pleasant Street
No response received

ROBERT D. VECCHI, 7 Emerson Road
Housing: Needham needs to address historical issues around redlining in order to create a community that welcomes a diverse blend of families.
Schools: Continue to provide an excellent pre-k through 12 school system. Increase our involvement in METCO.
Safety: Citizen police oversight.

KATE ELLEN WEINOGRAD, 153 Plymouth Road
Needham continues to grow and evolve. I believe the three top issues – housing, infrastructure, and community facilities – are all interconnected. These issues require a long-term vision and consensus building for Needham to make strategic decisions about priorities and resource deployment.

ANDREA J. WIZER, 7 Emerson Road
Helping the town become a more welcoming diverse community through housing, policing and education; reducing negative impact on the environment by making climate friendly decisions; and improving communication and transparency in our local government.

JILL YANOFSKY, 111 High Rock Street
Due to planned and unplanned growth, Needham will soon experience new challenges in:
1. Education 2. Health and Safety 3. Limited availability of open public space.
We should all work together proactively, so our varied populations may continue to enjoy living in our popular community.

TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN TWENTY-FOUR

ALISON S. BORRELLI, 1175 Great Plain Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

BARRY J. COFFMAN, 837 Great Plain Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
I have been a TMM for about 15 years and a member of the Town Finance Committee for 6. Priorities for me are balancing the future need for more affordable housing with capacity limitations at our schools. Rebuilding Mitchell and Pollard in a fiscally responsible manner is also a high priority.

LAWRENCE J. COHEN, 77 Warren Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

JOHN P. CONNELLY, 67 May Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

GAIL E. DAVIS, 233 Nehoiden Street (Candidate for re-election)
Needham should strive to:
*Foster and maintain a culture of inclusiveness so that diverse groups of people will feel welcome and can prosper
*Maintain high quality education in our public schools
*Ensure judicious use of the tax dollar for the benefit of all Needham residents

RICHARD W. DAVIS, 233 Nehoiden Street (Candidate for re-election)
Maintain our excellent financial standing.
Maintain a strong public school system including maintenance and upgrades to buildings and technology capabilities.
Continue to develop additional options for affordable housing for young families and senior citizens.

DOUG H. FOX, 43 Marked Tree Road (Candidate for re-election)
1. Town Leadership Code of Ethics
2. Increased Housing Affordability
3. Increased Transparency & Accountability of Town Departments

JEFFREY M. FRIEDMAN, 28 Perrault Road #1 (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

ROCHELLE E. GOLDIN, 68 Warren Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

JEFFREY D. HELLER, 1092 Central Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
The highest priority is manage the growth including housing, residential building, zoning, planning, preservation, with balance and fairness, and control development.from happening too fast for the resources and expenses.
TM to oversee appropriate and efficient management of resources & services

LESLIE A. KALISH, 48 Lake Drive (Candidate for re-election)
Housing:
Affordability of housing, not just in the low income range but lack of affordable middle income housing.
Environment:
Measures that Needham can take to raise awareness and to mitigate impact of climate change.
Schools:
Maintain high quality educational programming and facilities.

ELIZABETH ANNE LEE, 42 Blacksmith Drive (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

MARY ANNE MACMAHON, 89 Warren Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

JOSEPH MCCABE, 93 Garden Street (Candidate for re-election)
The climate crisis: building, heating, traveling with maximum energy efficiency..
More affordable housing, then providing services for an expanded population.
Keeping residential property taxes from mushrooming while continuing to provide great schools and town services.

DENNIS FRANCIS MCCAFFERTY, 3 Meadowbrook Road (Candidate for re-election)
1) Fiscal austerity: We have large debt load despite high taxes
2) Diversity: We can do more to make Needham diverse
3) Support retail: Support our local businesses which have suffered during Covid

JEANNE S. MCKNIGHT, 100 Rosemary Way #336 (Candidate for re-election)
1. Plan for multi-family housing and support affordable housing, including support of NHA’s efforts.
2. Construct safe 4-way crossing gates at our 5 railroad/street crossings to establish a train horn quiet zone.
3. When the state establishes an updated stretch code, study and adopt it ASAP.

KAREN N. PRICE, 48 Lake Drive (Candidate for re-election)
Reduce carbon footprint in as many areas possible; make town more available to young, seniors, BIPOC; make serving in town government more appealing and attainable.

JENNIFER S. SEXTON, 62 Newell Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

ADAM S. ZAFF, 134 Damon Road (Candidate for re-election)
Spending on upgrades for the schools. Maintaining open spaces for recreation. Doing whatever we can to stop contributing to global warming and encourage recycling.

WILLIAM A. ZOPPO, 330 Nehoiden Street (Candidate for re-election)
Having developed affordable housing in Needham, I continue to beware of the CRITICAL need for more affordable & diverse housing stock. 2: Transparency in all our governing processes. 3: Assuring that citizens concerns are heard & thoughtfully debated at town meeting.

GARY ROBERT AJAMIAN, 47 Meetinghouse Circle
I will represent precinct F residents at Town Meeting and seek their input to determine priorities & goals within available budgets. Support Town infrastructure needs, education quality & effectiveness, first responders & safety and housing needs without over regulating and overburdening residents.

STEPHEN L. DORNBUSCH, 51 Damon Road
Given our aging facilities, I would designate our schools as a top priority.
Another priority of mine will be addressing growth and development in town. Change is inevitable, but we must always consider the impact.
A third priority would be the effects of environmental and climate change.

ROBYN E. GLAZIER, 59 Walnut Street
There are many pressing issues facing us today. Of highest priority: 1) long range planning – specifically, what are our needs and how do we plan ahead to meet them; 2) how do we accommodate both an aging demographic that wants to retire in Needham and new neighbors; 3) infrastructure maintenance.

TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN TWENTY-FOUR

PETER W. BEACHAM JR., 249 Harris Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

JENNIFER LEWIS BUELL, 53 Pinewood Road (Candidate for re-election)
1) Improving our public school spaces to best accommodate the growing number of families in town; 2) Balancing the town’s growing demand for green and community spaces and affordable housing; and 3) Increasing the town’s responsibility on climate change and environmental issues.

MICHAEL J. CRAWFORD, 213 Warren Street (Candidate for re-election)
1) affordable housing;
2) increase cml tax rev/tax base. Create focus group. (include non -downtown bus., as well as landlords and RE investors – big and small). consider zoning changes
3) make downtown more vibrant to attract non- Needham shoppers
4) what more can we do for Senior citizens?

JOHN D. CRIMMINGS, 32 Plymouth Road (Candidate for re-election)
Climate Change – implement appropriate & realistic “green” policies & projects.
Budget – be fiscally responsible as we address the critical upcoming projects of Mitchell & Pollard, while following our adopted debt limit guidelines.
Diversity, equity & inclusion efforts in the Needham Public Schools.

ROBERT J. DERMODY, 162 Fair Oaks Park (Candidate for re-election)
1 Equity in all aspects of life in Needham; housing, accessibility, education, recreation & representation
2 Financially sound & environmentally sustainable development/maintenance of town resources & proper planning of private developments
3 Public safety of all residents/visitors esp. pedestrians

DAVID DIRKS, 674 Webster Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

MICHAEL A. DISTLER, 122 Washington Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

CATHERINE REID DOWD, 778 Great Plain Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
1) Schools: especially investment in buildings, such as Mitchell, Pollard and Emery Grover; 2) Housing: increase affordability but maintain aesthetics of the town; 3) Roads and transportation: more access to the MBTA, better roads, bicycle trails

ROBERT JOHN FERNANDEZ, 19 Bradford Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

STEPHEN ANTHONY FRAIL, 29 Powers Street (Candidate for re-election)
Developing and implementing a Climate Action Plan to lower our collective carbon footprint, finding creative ways to offer more diverse and affordable housing in Needham, and minimizing the real estate tax burden faced by Needham residents.

KENNETH B. FREUNDLICH, 54 Bradford Street (Candidate for re-election)
The three highest priority issues facing Needham are 1) affordable housing, 2) renovation of major buildings such as the Emery Grover building and the Mitchell School, and 3) local solutions to fighting climate change

THOMAS M. HARKINS, 24 May Street (Candidate for re-election)
Needham is not an island. The issues facing the world, the country, and the town are:
Income inequality; political division; racial and religious intolerance. And to add a fourth: climate change.

ABIGAIL JONES HAYS, 54 Coolidge Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
Providing the best education to our students – from curriculum to physical buildings to staffing.
Increasing the town’s commitment to climate change awareness and environmental action.
Creating greater transparency within town government through sharing information.

JESSICA ZAPLIN KARLIN, 30 Wilshire Park (Candidate for re-election)
Community space – green and indoor use,
Affordable housing, climate change

MAUREEN T. MCCAFFREY, 285 Manning Street (Candidate for re-election)
* Protect the character of the residential areas and encourage careful design review for any business development.
* Support the high quality of the Needham Public Schools.
* Work to make Needham a model of equity and environmental health.

SUSAN B. MCGARVEY, 66 Upland Road (Candidate for re-election)
1. Addressing the urgency of the climate crisis with planning and action. 2. Engaging the public with clear and effective communication. 3. Addressing the need for affordable and sustainable housing.

JOSEPHINE LUPPINO OCHALLA, 657 Webster Street (Candidate for re-election)
Transparency and collaborative planning in government, addressing equity issues in education, smart planning to diversify housing options in town

ALISA M. SKATRUD, 49 Sargent Street (Candidate for re-election)
1. Balance community needs and values with smart, sustainable growth. 2. Maintain program quality – from schools to senior services and beyond. 3. Embrace and nurture our growing diversity by enhancing connections with one another and encouraging greater civic engagement for all.

ROBERT T. SMART JR., 25 Mayo Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
(1) Continued willingness of committed town residents to serve on elected and unelected boards and committees, (2) expansion of commercial tax base to fund town programs, trails, recreation, etc., particularly along Rte. 128, (3) increase in the number of accessory dwelling units.

PATRICK WESTON TACELLI, 179 Harris Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

CHRISTOPHER G. THOMAS, 130 Warren Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

SUSAN WELBY, 857 Webster Street (Candidate for re-election)
Budget, Zoning, Town owned building upgrades

RICHARD DEMEIS, 126 Powers Street
Maintain our quality schools, while considering the tax burden on elderly residents, to keep Needham a desirable community. Zoning to preserve more starter homes in Needham and affordable housing so our children can afford to live here. Decrease the carbon footprint of the town and its citizens.

JAMES D. FLANAGAN, 863 Webster Street
1. Help NPS to address lessons learned from the pandemic and pursue the Portrait of a Graduate outcomes and next-generation learning; 2. address lack of affordable and diverse housing options: 3) improve quality of life while managing spending and long term debt

KAREN WALKER, 13 Webster Park
Developing and implementing plans to promote diversity in our community; Continuing the focus on reducing our carbon footprint; improving communication between town boards/town meeting members and the Needham community.

TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN TWENTY-FOUR

ILAN BARZILAY, 77 Thornton Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

HEINZ R. BRINKHAUS, 10 Lancaster Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

HILARY HANSON BRUEL, 87 Thornton Road (Candidate for re-election)
Addressing facilities needs at Mitchell, Pollard, and High Rock while also maintaining other town buildings. Responsible planning and development to both increase commercial tax revenue and expand affordable housing options. Policies and practices to strengthen DEI and environmental initiatives.

JOHN A. BULIAN, 86 Peacedale Road (Candidate for re-election)
Rapidly rising real estate taxes putting financial pressure on middle class and senior populations. Managing residential and commercial growth and the ability to provide services to all residents efficiently. Implementing the School Master Plan within the Town’s Debt Policy.

MOLLY KASTORY CARTER, 136 Tudor Road (Candidate for re-election)
I believe our highest priority issues are housing: working for a mix which supports a growing, aging, diverse town; education: supporting infrastructure, curriculum, and special education; and community spaces/facilities: maintaining, preserving and creating places to connect our great community.

JULIA SATTI COSENTINO, 265 Great Plain Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
Encouraging a vibrant downtown with diverse businesses; maintaining a multigenerational community by offering supports that allow seniors to stay in town; and creating healthy social opportunities for our teenagers through enhanced recreational sites and promoting local businesses that serve them.

M. PATRICIA CRUICKSHANK, 64 Elmwood Road (Candidate for re-election)
–Fiscal responsibility–restocking reserve funds and rainy day funds & all capital expense requests accompanied w/estimated operating/staffing expenses.
–Emphasis in all areas on environmental sustainability. More solar panels
–Continue to build community & understanding among all residents

MICHAEL A. DIENER, 30 Kenney Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

LYNN SARA FEIGENBAUM, 80 Richard Road (Candidate for re-election)
1) Make Needham more inclusive and address issues of racial and economic inequities.
2) Support small businesses post-COVID while protecting green spaces.
3) Affordable housing

THOMAS EDWARD GILLOGLEY, 4 Wendling Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

KAREN ECKSTEIN HAN, 34 Grosvenor Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

ELIZABETH P. HANDLER, 317 Great Plain Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
Manage development to include a variety of affordable housing (for the young, the old, and lower-income) via well-thought-out zoning bylaws
Renovate / update Mitchell and Pollard Schools
Develop inclusion of many voices in town government without being critical of those with opposing viewpoints

MICHAEL C. KARDOK, 55 Berkshire Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

JOHN A. KINGSTON, 70 Grosvenor Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

KIMBERLY KNICKLE-TIERNEY, 206 Broad Meadow Road (Candidate for re-election)
Balancing the needs of families and older residents who want to remain in town; ensuring the preservation and accessibility of sustainable (green) spaces, and creating an environment which welcomes a diverse population

NANCY E. MCCARTHY, 29 Sterling Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

EILEEN M. MULLEN, 20 Dunbarton Road (Candidate for re-election)
Climate crisis: Reduce our carbon footprint.
Housing: Provide a variety of options, so that Needham is affordable for a diverse range of people and older residents are able to stay here.
Communication between town government and residents: increase residents’ awareness of issues facing the town.

PETER R. OLIVE, 133 Thornton Road (Candidate for re-election)
Lack of racial diversity. Lack of affordable housing. Up-zoning to address both.

EILEEN K. ORSCHELN, 67 Whittier Road (Candidate for re-election)
We are fortunate to live in a town with a diversified tax base, solid public infrastructure, and sound fiscal policies. I believe our priorities should be responsible budgeting and spending, maintaining our infrastructure, and evaluating zoning restrictions to encourage economic development.

RICHARD M. REILLY, 15 Whittier Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

KEVIN F. TIERNEY, 206 Broad Meadow Road (Candidate for re-election)
Environment–Continue making real progress on stormwater clean-up, carbon emissions limitation, and preserving open spaces. Justice–Make Needham more socioeconomically and racially diverse. COVID Recovery–Plan for how citizens will work, learn, and interact with local businesses going forward.

AMY M. WIXON, 92 Grosvenor Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

RICHARD A. ZIMBONE, 10 Woodbury Drive (Candidate for re-election)
– Reduce the tax burden, especially for seniors
-Emphasize maintaining/upgrading existing facilities including schools, fields and town facilities
– Upgrade/refurbish existing affordable housing & provide opportunities for long term residents to continue to live & enjoy our community

KIMRAE HELBIG LEE, 349 Great Plain Avenue
No response received

TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN TWENTY-FOUR

PETER D. ATALLAH, 18 Lindbergh Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
* Balancing economic development with quality of life and sustainability
* Maintaining the excellence of the school system in an economically feasible manner
* Pursuing environmental and social justice initiatives to preserve open space and
increase opportunities for all residents

JAMES S. BONASIA, 174 Tower Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

MICHAEL CENTOLA, 12 Hoover Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

LISA CHERBULIEZ, 17 Lindbergh Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
Just redistricted to Precinct I from J, I’m eager to meet constituents. Priorities: 1 improve communication among residents, businesses, Town government & other organizations; 2 Increasing sustainability & effectively addressing climate change 3 Increasing engagement of community members

ARTIE R. CROCKER, 17 Fairlawn Street (Candidate for re-election)
For the earth we raise our food, water we drink and the air we breath; tomorrow is no longer an option. We need energy efficiency and sustainability in all our future buildings.
Low income housing and the diversity in our community. Come together as a community with respect for all.

CLAIRE DEE ECSEDY, 20 Holland Terrace (Candidate for re-election)
1. Affordable Housing: Need for affordable housing in new developments.
2. Equality: Strive for equality; uniting against racism.
3. Zoning: Need proper zoning; commercial and residential.

DAVID J. ECSEDY, 20 Holland Terrace (Candidate for re-election)
Provide quality services at a reasonable cost. I will continue my perfect attendance at town meetings; serve as a voice of reason at town meetings; use my knowledge of recycling, elections, engineering , law, culture for the good of Needham

DAVID J. ESCALANTE, 103 Woodledge Road (Candidate for re-election)
In no order, continue commercial development in a responsible way, handle the building of a new Mitchell School and the temporary relocation of its students sensitively, and focus on traffic and noise issues (the Town’s population has grown very little, but there seems to be lots more traffic).

JOEL S. GOLDEN, 22 Edwardel Road (Candidate for re-election)
1)Expand the affordability of Needham’s housing stock so that middle class families can afford to purchase/rent here and seniors can age in place.
2 Expand green space and implement a climate action plan.
3) Encourage historically underrepresented individuals to participate in town government.

JILL C. KAHN-BOESEL, 44 Brookline Street (Candidate for re-election)
1. Increase housing affordability, particularly, increase # of mid-price condos, for folks of all ages, esp. 55+. 2. Involve community through series of open public meetings in school (Mitchell; Pollard; High Rock) building planning. 3. Thoughtful development with green space at former Muzi parcel.

WILLIAM CHRISTOPHER KENT, 8 James Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

JOSEPH S. MATTHEWS, 31 Rosemary Street (Candidate for re-election)
Affordability – by far the highest priority. For both young families and retirees. Must ensure range of housing stock
Civic education – low engagement makes it difficult to get buy-in for broad initiatives Community preservation – need new policy on tear downs, tree removal, historical sites, etc.

CATHERINE W. MERTZ, 67 Rybury Hillway (Candidate for re-election)
Residents need to be able to trust that our elected officials are sharing all relevant information.
Community engagement is essential to ensuring that our town is moving in the desired direction.
Housing choice and affordability. Diversity – economic, race, age – is key to a vibrant community.

KRISTIN L. MOLLERUS, 139 Brookline Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

GLENN ALAN MULNO, 40 Morton Street (Candidate for re-election)
Affordable housing to allow seniors/young families to live here. Prioritize replacement of Mitchel/Pollard & funding our schools to teach in the 21st century. Encourage multiuse development downtown that reinvigorates & supports our business/restaurant communities, maintaining green space & safety.

LORRAINE M. MURPHY, 59 Beaufort Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
1. Affordable Housing – Not a new issue but people who work for the Town or grew up here have been priced out for years
2. Taxes – with the cost of everything on the rise – we should keep that in mind.
3. Environment/ Energy Issues – keep working on alternative energy – electric vehicles, solar etc

PETER J. PINGITORE, 146 Hillcrest Road (Candidate for re-election)
1. Creating a more diverse community through affordable housing for low, moderate and middle income families. 2. Addressing the capital needs of the Needham Public Schools. 3. Balancing the development of our commercial tax base with the legitimate concerns of local neighborhoods.

PAUL ROBEY III, 38 Brookline Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

LOIS F. SOCKOL, 611 Greendale Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
protecting neighborhoods against industrial creep
elder housing for those who need to downsize
renovation of the Mitchell School and Pollard as well as preservation of our trees, water systems, open spaces, and utilizing “Green” choices during renovations or new construction of Town facilities.

DAVID PAUL SUPPLE, 58 Helen Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

ANNE W. WEINSTEIN, 3 Carey Road (Candidate for re-election)
Local Engagement. Awareness, communication, participation of all residents on local issues. A robust pipeline for boards and elected positions. Climate. Using a climate lens for decisions related to buildings, town vehicles, and other decisions related to climate impact. School building planning.

RACHEL ANN WEINSTOCK, 30 Homestead Park (Candidate for re-election)
Create diversity by retaining current affordable housing, including restrictions on tear-downs, & build denser housing. Evaluate tax increases for major building projects & higher maintenance costs on newer buildings. Improve sustainability via energy efficiency projects & protecting green spaces.

KATHLEEN D. WHITNEY, 75 Kingsbury Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

REBECCA A. YOUNG, 1072 Highland Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
I would like to bring progressive values and high engagement to Town Meeting, being an integral part of Needham’s work for progress and change. I am passionate about education, anti-racism work, and equity, so these are my three priority issues.

MAURICE HANDEL, 3 Rosemary Street
Needham is growing. We need to manage that growth while promoting diversity, foster the financial capacity to meet the Town’s capital needs caused by growth and the age of our schools, and improve citizen engagement while overcoming divisiveness, misinformation and misunderstanding.

LYNDA MICHELLE HUGHES, 127 Lexington Avenue
No response received

WILLIAM D. MAHONEY, 349 Brookline Street
No response received

DANIEL P. MATTHEWS, 31 Rosemary Street
Continuing goals: -Address and recover from COVID pandemic and its effects, -Maintain town services and improve our community in a challenging public and fiscal environment, and -Assure that our government is open and accountable. I’ve been a Select Board TMM at large, and ask voters’ support.

OSCAR E. MERTZ III, 67 Rybury Hillway
More housing choices/prices for those seeking to move here or to downsize so we can make Needham more economically diverse and inclusive.
Implement latest energy codes to reflect awareness and respect for our environment.
Open community engagement to foster trust to set shared goals for town.

TOWN MEETING MEMBERS for three years / VOTE FOR NOT MORE THAN TWENTY-FOUR

STUART B. CHANDLER, 123 Paul Revere Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

WILLIAM R. DERMODY, 12 Concord Street (Candidate for re-election)
We need to help find solutions for affordable housing. We need to continue to support our schools and their infrastructure. We need to continue to update programs and services for seniors and youth.

ROBERT E. DEUTSCH, 14 Highview Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

JANICE S. EPSTEIN, 75 Highland Terrace (Candidate for re-election)
We need more transparency of the town’s decision-making and making sure resident’s concerns are addressed. We need to balance growth/development with “quality of life”. We need to be are aware of the finances for annual/capital budgets. Support schools, senior center, green space, & infrastructure

MICHAEL J. GREIS, 384 Webster Street (Candidate for re-election)
Sustainable finance: annual/capital budgets for schools, town services & infrastructure
Sustainable environment: clean energy & smart design in construction; sustainable town operations
Sustainable development: proactive, not reactive planning/zoning so a diverse community (age/wealth/race) thrives

ELIZABETH NICOLE KAPONYA, 27 Highland Terrace (Candidate for re-election)
Muzzi Ford’s property development needs to be kept Community Friendly, and prevent traffic overload.
The planned additions of Micro Breweries and Brew Pubs for Highland Ave from the 128 Exit to Newton border need to be adjusted with the proximity to Residences, Schools, and Playgrounds.

GEORGE F. KENT, 184 Richdale Road (Candidate for re-election)
Highest priority is to maintain a reasonably high quality of services, consistent with a conservative approach to spending/taxation.
With many capital additions recently (schools, Public safety facilities, other buildings), we must make sure that they are properly maintained to maximize their life.

MICHAEL M. MATHIAS, 354 Webster Street (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

CHRISTINE S. MCCOURT, 181 Richdale Road (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

DAVID P. MONTGOMERY, 361 Webster Street (Candidate for re-election)
1. Recognition of concerns of residents on multiple issues to encourage respectful exploration of divergent and considered perspectives. 2. Balance need for change and/or improvements with appreciation for long-held customs. 3. Develop holistic and inclusive town infrastructure planning mechanisms.

DONNA M. MULLIN, 131 Paul Revere Road (Candidate for re-election)
Highway construction. Highway and street repairs. Correct major traffic routes that affect public streets

JANE B. MURPHY, 760 Highland Avenue #17 (Candidate for re-election)
No response received

BARRY S. POLLACK, 15 Pandolf Lane (Candidate for re-election)
School conditions,
Affordable housing including for seniors, and
Transparency of local government

LAUREN SOPER, 32 Mark Lee Road (Candidate for re-election)
1. Transparent democracy: let’s up engagement and participation!
2. More/new public and green spaces- and enhance those we already have to be more family friendly.
3. Upgrade our train crossings to be safer and less reliant on manual train horn sounding

CAROL I. URWITZ, 164 Greendale Avenue (Candidate for re-election)
Quality of life and sustainability are key parts of Needham’s growth. We should keep building our vision for infrastructure, services, and community that allows us to thrive now and in the future. In Town Meeting, I value transparency, respect, and discussion. Continuing to serve would be an honor.

DEBRA A. WHITNEY, 36 Hunting Road (Candidate for re-election)
Balancing development and traffic, especially in the commercial-residential districts.
School facilities expansion and modernization to accommodate an increased student population.
More diverse representation, transparency, and conflict of interest disclosures among town government groups.

HOLLY CHARBONNIER, 94 Sachem Road
Town improvements are necessary, but the current plan for spending is concerning. We need to rethink which projects are a priority and potentially not move forward with some. Developers must consider sustainable and resilient design options while looking for ways to incorporate more green space.

PAULA E. DICKERMAN, 20 Burnside Road
(1) supporting all Town Departments’ efforts to foster diversity, equity, and inclusiveness (2) creating more housing choice, so that there are affordable options for those who want to stay in or move to Needham (3) maintaining the viability of our local businesses

PRIYA GORE, 28 Thorpe Road
1.) Represent modern families & residents of today’s Needham. 2.) Preservation of open spaces where kids of all ages can safely thrive socially & emotionally. 3.) Support a BALANCED residential & business ecosystem & plan that contributes to the betterment of our great town of Needham!

FREDERICA S. LALONDE, 38 Bennington Street
The most pressing issues are a lack of comprehensive, easily accessible public information; delays caused by relitigating previously agreed upon issues; and a limited new spring of community members willing to serve to replace long-serving, dedicated town leaders.These three factors impede progress.