Voter Guide

April 11, 2023 Needham Election

Voter 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 (or incumbents) appear first, alphabetically, then new candidates are listed alphabetically. Each candidate for town-wide office has been asked to share his or her relevant qualifications in 300 characters or less and answer the following question in 500 characters or less: What do you see as the most important goal you would like to achieve if elected (or re-elected)? Candidates for the competitive boards (Select Board and Planning Board) have some additional questions. Download a PDF of the Voter Guide.

SELECT BOARD (for 3 years) Vote for 2

MARIANNE B. COOLEY (Candidate for re-election)
85 High Street
781-474-2341
votemariannecooley@gmail.com
www.votemariannecooley.org

Relevant qualifications:

I have served 10 years as a Select Board member, 2 years as Chair, and 9 years on the School Committee. I am on the Board of Advisors/Board of Trustees for BID-Needham. I helped found CNS, was a Pollard PTC co-president, Needham Education Foundation co-president, BID-Needham Hospital Aid president.

Most important goal:

I would like to be able to look back and know that we have made progress on rebuilding a proper connection to Newton for multi-modal transportation. The current feasibility study will inform the town on our options for this connection and Needham’s ability to connect with the T, in addition to the commuter rail, while also providing better bike and walking options. A shared electric van option for residents without requiring parking is a priority.

What are the biggest challenges facing the town:

Securing state aid to assist in rebuilding Pollard and Mitchell to make those projects more affordable for Needham taxpayers is critical. Expanding housing, particularly affordable housing, at a pace that will not exceed the capacity of our schools or other town infrastructure must be addressed. We must also hold budget growth to a sustainable level, make information as accessible as possible for all residents, and seek to work together for the common good in a climate that has become divisive.

How would you prioritize the recommended actions in the Needham Housing Plan:

Increasing housing options to allow seniors to age in place and give others a chance to move into town is a priority. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are the place to start. The proposed changes for Town Meeting make a great deal of sense to me. I believe complying with the proposed MBTA Communities Act will be a valuable asset to expand and diversify housing options by-right. Passing a townwide inclusionary zoning provision to make 12.5 percent of multi-unit housing affordable is important.

How would you encourage greater awareness of, and participation in, Needham town government:

I’ve been working on this issue for 20 years, and I am all ears for new ideas. There is growing participation in town government, but even more is needed. The News You Need(ham) has been reaching residents effectively, and people now discuss things they learned about in the newsletter – that’s a win. We are seeing an increase in people applying for appointments to boards and committees, and we have created a permanent space for volunteer opportunities on the Town website.

When considering the town’s annual operating budget, what factors would guide you in making tradeoffs among competing funding priorities:

I helped devise the current Select Board process to prioritize funding and believe it to be a strong reflection of residents’ values and priorities. The board deliberates extensively about any addition of new staff as it is a recurring expense and goes beyond their tenure. The board analyzes the pros and cons of maintaining current activities and adding/changing workflows to create space for new initiatives. Balance and predictability are achieved by planning for both long and short term needs.

What actions, if any, should the Select Board take to address the climate emergency:

As a member of the Climate Action Planning Committee, I fully support their recommendations to the Select Board. Over the next year, we hope to bring forward a proposal for Community Electric Aggregation. A consultant has been selected to draft a Climate Action Plan for the Town based on recommendations of the working groups. We recommended the hiring of a Sustainability Coordinator to focus on grant applications and helping residents understand their climate-friendly options for renovations.

CATHERINE (CATHY) REID DOWD
778 Great Plain Avenue
cathyforneedham@gmail.com
https://cathyforneedham.org

Relevant Qualifications:

With private and public sector experience, 15 years teaching History and Government at Needham High School, 25 years as a resident, service as a volunteer and in Town Meeting, and raising a family, I am focused on pragmatic, fact-based decision making, and committed to the best interests of Needham.

Most Important Goal:

As an overarching goal, I would strive to foster a positive political culture in Needham, which would enable us to achieve the many objectives of the community. Ensuring diversity, equity and inclusion must always be top of mind in every conversation. Maintaining a climate of mutual trust and respect with openness and accountability and promoting strong political participation are key to driving success with housing, climate action, capital projects, revitalizing the town, and many other issues.

What are the biggest challenges facing the town:

Like many towns in this region, Needham faces challenges of housing options and affordability, the climate emergency, and a desire for more open and green space. Needham also has unique challenges. The town will need to fund upcoming school capital projects in a fiscally sound manner, and we will need to be thoughtful in attracting new business to help defray those costs. Needham also needs to continue to ensure it is a welcoming place to live and work for all those who come here.

How would you prioritize the recommended actions in the Needham Housing Plan:

The recommendations are critical pieces to a challenging problem. I would immediately adopt ADU rezoning to diversify housing stock and help seniors who want to age in place. In tandem I would focus on developing the best plan to comply with the MBTA Communities Law to create housing options at affordable prices near transit. Finally, we must invest time and resources to support the Needham Housing Authority’s Preservation Redevelopment Initiative to improve and expand deeply affordable housing.

How would you encourage greater awareness of, and participation in, Needham town government:

Reaching people is an issue close to my heart. I have spent much of my career encouraging civic participation because greater involvement from residents significantly improves policy. We should take every opportunity to invite people to attend Town Meeting, join boards, and offer input whenever possible. I support the development of a newspaper, and applaud recent initiatives like The News You Need(ham) and sharing TM Member emails – all of which keep people informed and foster engagement.

When considering the town’s annual operating budget, what factors would guide you in making tradeoffs among competing funding priorities:

It is less about tradeoffs than it is about balance. We must continue to invest in education, infrastructure, services, and amenities while considering the tax burden on homeowners – especially seniors and those on a fixed income. As stewards of residents’ tax payments, we must be prudent. We must also preserve Needham’s AAA bond rating and credit worthiness. To create this balance, we need to support business development that will increase total revenue to the town and lessen the tax burden.

What actions, if any, should the Select Board take to address the climate emergency:

The Select Board has set many goals to address this emergency, and I support their work. We should fully implement the Community Electricity Aggregation voted at Town meeting to balance affordability with green sources. I support hiring a sustainability director to help Needham compete for state and federal grants and Planning Board efforts to facilitate adopting renewable energy. We must be leaders in responding to these challenges and help Massachusetts achieve its environmental goals.

JOSHUA W. LEVY
1606 Great Plain Avenue
781-343-1242
SelectJoshuaLevy@gmail.com
www.SelectJoshuaLevy.com

Relevant Qualifications:

– Town Meeting Member (12 years)
– Finance Committee Member (5 years) and immediate past chair
– Strong understanding of the operations and finances of our town
– Prioritize effective communication, thoughtful analysis, and respectful discourse
– Grew up in Needham and raising young family

Most Important Goal:

The most important goal is to achieve ongoing improvement in the quality of life for residents. This requires anticipating future needs and planning for their impacts on all town operations. For instance, as Needham addresses its need for more housing, we must also plan for increased demands on our roads and buildings. No proposal should be viewed in isolation, and by considering each issue in a broad context, we can address both current and future needs to the greatest benefit for residents.

What are the biggest challenges facing the town:

– Financing reconstruction of the Mitchell and Pollard school buildings (current cost estimates of over $300 million)
– Improving street safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists
– Incentivizing a diversity of housing options in order to make Needham more accessible to younger families and to seniors looking to downsize or stay in their homes as they age
– Contributing to the Massachusetts Clean Energy and Climate Plan to achieve Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions

How would you prioritize the recommended actions in the Needham Housing Plan:

Housing affordability is a persistent and worsening problem in Needham. On the positive side, Needham is a very desirable and in-demand place to live, with excellent schools and a welcoming community (these attributes should be celebrated and maintained). On the negative side is the demolition of starter homes in town that are not being replaced. To increase the housing supply, Needham can incentivize construction of starter homes, implement the MBTA communities law, and relax ADU restrictions.

How would you encourage greater awareness of, and participation in, Needham town government:

Residents appreciate knowing about upcoming proposals and having an opportunity to offer input. Erring on the side of overcommunication ensures that decisions never take residents by surprise and that residents do not miss opportunities to provide feedback. I will hold regular drop-in sessions to inform interested residents of upcoming proposals and answer questions. The Select Board can also hold formal public hearings on prominent matters under consideration, even when not strictly required.

When considering the town’s annual operating budget, what factors would guide you in making tradeoffs among competing funding priorities:

The Select Board oversees department funding requests and the Town Manager’s budget recommendation, all of which inform the Finance Committee’s proposed budget submitted to Town Meeting. Funding for new programs should be prioritized according to their necessity, urgency, and impact. In addition, the Select Board should periodically review budgeted but unspent funds that could be used elsewhere. Lastly, the budget is a value statement that should always reflect the values of Needham residents.

What actions, if any, should the Select Board take to address the climate emergency:

The Select Board must create policies to address energy consumption of town buildings and vehicles in order to achieve Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions. Priorities include Energy Conservation (limit energy use while buildings are closed to the public and limit idling of town vehicles), Energy Efficiency (install energy efficient equipment wherever possible), and Renewable Energy Sources (phase out fossil fuel use and negotiate Community Energy Aggregation for green and inexpensive electricity).

ASSESSOR (for 3 years) Vote for 1

MICHAEL L. NIDEN
178 South Street
781-801-2151
Michaelniden@comcast.net
www.michaelniden.com

Relevant Qualifications:

I am a Needham real estate agent. My days are primarily spent assessing the value of Needham homes. Combined with my contracting skills I can assess the quality and condition of a home or building.

Most Important Goal:

My first goal would be to learn the entire process. My second goal would be to ensure the assessment and abatement process is applied in a fair and transparent manner.

ASSESSOR (for 2 years) Vote for 1

JOHN A. BULIAN

86 Peacedale Road
781-444-7994
jbulian@rcn.com

Relevant Qualifications:

Select Board 2003-2021 (18 Years); Town Meeting Member 27 Years

Most Important Goal:

To fairly and equitably oversee the work of the Town Assessors Office including resident abatement requests and other administrative tasks as necessary.

SCHOOL COMMITTEE (for 3 years) Vote for 2

MICHAEL J. GREIS (Candidate for re-election)
384 Webster Street
781 559-4623
mgreis@comcast.net
https://michaelgreis.com

Relevant Qualifications:

School Committee since 2005, Chair 2008-09, 2014-15, 2019-20. Contract negotiations, budget/finance leader. Resident since 1991, TMM since 1995. MS Finance and CFA Charterholder. Finance/technology/sustainability expertise. 25+ years involvement in town boards and community organizations.

Most Important Goal:

The School Facilities Master Plan update and the ongoing implementation of Portrait of a Needham Graduate are key priorities. Reconstruction of Mitchell & Pollard will complete a 20+ year cycle that updated or replaced all our school buildings, delivering academically appropriate and equitable facilities for all Needham’s children. Over the next few years, we must develop a financing plan with other Town boards, secure community-wide support for the plan and get the initial projects under way.

MATTHEW J. SPENGLER (Candidate for re-election)
75 Hoover Road
617-955-6682

Relevant Qualifications:

I am the parent of three children who have either graduated from or are in the Needham Public Schools. I founded and run an education nonprofit organization focused on equity and improving life outcomes. I have proudly served as a School Committee Member for the last six years.

Most Important Goal:

The School Committee is committed to achieving the vision for our students as detailed in the Portrait of a Needham Graduate. In addition, we need to move forward on rebuilding the Mitchell and Pollard campuses. If re-elected, I would join my colleagues on the SC to focus on those priorities.

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

JOHN S. GALLELLO (Candidate for re-election)
30 Howland Street

No response received.

TRUSTEE OF NEEDHAM PUBLIC LIBRARY (for 3 years) Vote for 3

ERHARDT GRAEFF (Incumbent)
207 Maple Street
erhardt@erhardtgraeff.com
https://erhardtgraeff.com

Relevant Qualifications:

I’ve been an appointed trustee of Needham Library since July 2022. I’m an Olin professor with social science, design, and computing expertise—put to use in the library’s strategic planning and space planning work. In the past 15 years, I’ve co-founded or advised numerous social impact organizations.

Most Important Goal:

The library is adopting a new strategic plan and will be completing a space planning effort to reimagine how the building can best serve patrons as our town grows and evolves. Executing these plans with marshaled support and resources will be crucial for success. I want to see that through. As a father of preschoolers, an educator, and an active citizen, I believe in the virtues of community engagement and feel responsible for the vitality of our library as social and civic infrastructure.

MICHAEL D. O’NEAL
239 Manning Street
michaeldoneal8@gmail.com

Relevant Qualifications:

I am honored to have the opportunity to serve our community in the capacity as a library trustee. I have served on many boards of advisors, directors, and trustees throughout my professional and personal career. I look forward to being a part of the team to move the NPL in a positive trajectory.

Most Important Goal:

My goal is this; I truly believe that the professional library staff are tasked to make each library interaction a meaningful and enjoyable experience. The library’s infrastructural requirements i.e. strategic plan, computer updates, space allocation, internal communications, systems capabilities and capacities etc. are necessary in our endeavors to ensure positive experiences and outcomes for our end users (our community members). I will be an advocate for insuring the success of NPL.

MEGHAN W. SMALL
2 Laurel Circle
mwsmall@outlook.com
https://www.instagram.com/meghanws/

Relevant Qualifications:

I’m a lawyer by profession and my experience has shaped my ability to think critically and work with multiple stakeholders to collaboratively solve problems. As an avid reader and lover of books, I have a strong interest in preserving and improving the library’s services to the community.

Most Important Goal:

The world is changing quickly and there are always improvements that can be made to meet the community’s needs. I would like the library to continue to grow with its programs and offerings to increase engagement with the community, including enhancing the youth programming, space and resources. I know the library is seeking input about improvements the community would like to see and I would work to support implementing and successfully communicating the changes made in response to that input.

BOARD OF HEALTH (for 3 years) Vote for 1

EDWARD V. COSGROVE III (Candidate for re-election)
17 Laurel Drive
781-449-0671
edwardcosgrove7@gmail.com

Relevant Qualifications:

I have a Ph.D. in Microbiology and have taught part-time at Northeastern University for over 40 years. I have a lifelong interest in Public Health and have worked in The Massachusetts Department of Public Health as well as serving on the Needham Board of Health for over 25 years.

Most Important Goal:

I want to continue to make the Needham Health Department one of the strongest local health departments in Massachusetts and work to improve the health and well-being for all of the citizens of Needham. Infectious diseases do not know or respect geographical borders, and I want to continue to work with our staff and those of the neighboring towns of Dover, Medfield and Sherborn to strengthen local public health in these communities through the sate supported Shared Services Grant.

PLANNING BOARD (for 5 years) Vote for 1

ADAM J. BLOCK (Candidate for re-election)
103 High Rock Street
617-731-9454
adam.block@compass.com
voteadamblock.org

Relevant qualifications:

Current Chair of the Planning Board with 3 years experience. I’ve led 4 successful zoning changes in Town Meeting and adjudicated 38 special permit and subdivision decisions. I am a TM member and Chair of the CEA. As a Realtor, I have deep experience with land use planning, strategy and value.

Most important goal:

It is my priority that the board establish a regular and predictable planning schedule that is integrated with other departments. This allows us to understand the impacts and what our capacities are for long term planning. This is a critical element to realizing the transformational opportunities ahead of us in housing reform, climate-smart zoning, and to “unlock” the Charles River to create much-sought vibrant community spaces.

How will you balance the complicated zoning regulations with the need or wants of the town, residents, businesses and developers:

My guiding questions are: What is the public good? How do we achieve that? The hearing process includes opportunities to listen and understand what is important to all stakeholders. Planning Board decisions cannot be arbitrary or capricious. We must adjudicate based on the law and not personal opinion. When it comes to changing zoning bylaws, I will also consider these questions and ask the board and residents to help determine the answers. It is in our collective interest to work together.

How would you suggest the Planning Board involve and communicate with residents regarding its deliberations and decisions:

The board could provide more information while still adhering to the State’s open meeting laws by sharing agendas and notices of hearings via Facebook and email. I believe an informational PB Facebook or webpage that also includes links to application materials, correspondence, and a Q&A section are beneficial. A Public hearing is the primary opportunity for the Board and residents to communicate. I would also be in favor of a simple online form for people wishing to offer feedback and input.

What role should the Planning Board play in diversifying housing options in town:

The board should play a leading role creating the framework that diversifies housing options. The process must include public engagement that helps inform the Board’s plan. The board also needs to engage with other town boards, town department staff, and consultants to understand the impacts of all different housing options. A good planning process considers how to manage capacity across infrastructure. I want to ensure that process is established and am committed to housing diversification.

The Climate Action Plan Committee (CAPC) was established to guide the Town in developing a plan that meets or exceeds the State’s climate mitigation and resilience goals. How should the Planning Board change Needham’s zoning bylaws to accomplish these goals:

We must do our part in leading these efforts and strive for the greatest standards to meet CAPC goals. I favor meaningful changes in site plan review and special permit processes to incentivize adoption on larger scale projects and would increase minimum standards by right. Consulting with the CAPC and town building and engineering departments is necessary to understand specific goals and the range of solutions. This will clarify options across residential, commercial and institutional segments.

ROBERT S. DANGEL
28 Hewitt Circle
781-444-2301
elect@robforplanningboard.com
https://www.robforplanningboard.com

Relevant Qualifications:

As a lifelong resident, I have perspective on where Needham has been and where it is going. The Select Board recognized my 27 years as a leader in the tech industry when it appointed me to the Technology Advisory Board. I am also a Town Meeting Member in Precinct A and an Election Clerk.

Most Important Goal:

We need to find an appropriate balance between commercial and residential growth. This will involve digging into smart growth principles, financial considerations, traffic studies, pedestrian impact, open space goals, and many other factors. In addition, the Planning Board must listen to our neighbors and engage with them in an open dialogue – they are the key to our success. I am committed to transparency and ensuring that residents understand the Planning Board’s decision-making process.

How will you balance the complicated zoning regulations with the need or wants of the town, residents, businesses and developers:

I believe sound decisions are best reached when stakeholders are brought to the table early in regard to development proposals. One idea I’ve given consideration to might be to encourage developers to reach out to the community, especially abutters, at the planning stage. Input from all parties helps achieve balanced outcomes. Additionally, zoning decisions must take into account the town’s short-term & long-term goals. Working closely with the Select Board will be important in this regard.

How would you suggest the Planning Board involve and communicate with residents regarding its deliberations and decisions:

Trust in government is built on transparency. I plan to give all residents multiple ways to learn about Town projects. I will work to develop meeting summaries with key bullet points to accompany the minutes. I will encourage the Planning Board to host regular office hours so that residents may discuss concerns. The Board is stronger when residents are informed about its deliberations and decisions, and when there is an open dialogue between its members and those who elected them.

What role should the Planning Board play in diversifying housing options in town:

The Planning Board must lead in strategizing ways to increase affordable housing opportunities. Affordable rental housing is very limited. Teachers, police officers and other town employees who serve Needham should be able to live here. The Planning Board should advocate for a higher percentage of Affordable Housing units for projects in which they have input. Additionally, proposed Accessory Dwelling Units zoning changes, if approved, might provide expanded housing options.

I am a strong proponent for climate action and believe that our bylaws should require major projects to meet environmental efficiency standards, preferably LEED Gold or higher, and preserve more green space. We should also adopt a tree protection policy and, potentially, a large house review board similar to neighboring towns. If elected, I would welcome the opportunity to serve as a liaison to CAPC in order to develop other strategies to help Needham exceed the State’s climate resiliency goals.

NEEDHAM HOUSING AUTHORITY (for 5 years) Vote for 1

PENELOPE (Penny) W. KIRK (Candidate for re-election)
100 Rosemary Way
781-888-1532

Relevant Qualifications:

I have worked for the NHA for 10 years as the services coordinator. I know the population well. I organized events for the residents and upgraded the after school program so that the school that teaches most of the NHA children received a commendation from the Governor for improved MCAS scores.

Most Important Goal:

The NHA is embarking n a massive improvement project involving tearing down old resident buildings and improving others to bring them up to code and beyond. I intend to be part of that endeavor.

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

DANIEL BURNS (Candidate for re-election)
6 Louart Drive

Relevant Qualifications:

In my professional role as the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Compliance Officer of an Investment Advisory firm, I have extensive experience in performing due diligence on investment managers and understanding conflicts of interest.

Most Important Goal:

I would like to increase public access to information about the trust funds and to develop a more sustainable approach for the Commissioners themselves to access the information.

PARK AND RECREATION (for 3 years) Vote for 1

JAMES E. ROSENBAUM
35 Homsy Lane
redsoxjer@verizon.net

Relevant Qualifications:

I’ve lived in Needham for 27 years. I’m an avid softball player for 35+ years and more recently an avid Pickleball player. My kids grew up playing all sorts of sports all over Needham from Green’s field to Defazio and all fields in between. I will fight hard for my fellow Needhamites.

Most Important Goal:

My most important goal is to make Parks and Rec more accessible to everyone. I’m interested in people having the best experience possible using Town facilities and expanding the opportunities for all to enjoy the fields and courts. I want to make sure more people’s voices are heard.

CONSTABLE (for 3 years) Vote for 2

RICHARD EUGENE GRAHAM (Candidate for re-election)
56 Prospect Street

Relevant Qualifications:

I am the incumbent, having originally been elected in 2020. I am a Needham resident of 7 years, father of three young children, and a business leader in the private sector. Constables are sworn municipal officers with substantial powers and these powers must be wielded by responsible individuals.

Most Important Goal:

Aside from continuing to post town warrants in a timely manner, and delivering civil process summons, I would like to ensure this position continues to be an elected office vs an appointed position, which is under consideration.

PAUL F. HUNT (Candidate for re-election)
608 Webster Street

Relevant Qualifications:

18 years service as Constable coupled with 32 years service on the Needham PD.

Most Important Goal:

To assist the Town Clerks office in the orderly management of our elections and town meetings.