Economic Development and Small Business
Acton’s small commercial tax base means that homeowners shoulder most of our real estate tax responsibility. By supporting sensible business development, we can help moderate that strain while strengthening the local economy. Our many locally owned businesses already enrich Acton — they create community, provide services we rely on, and contribute to the vibrant character of our town.
As a member of the Select Board, I will partner with local business owners to identify zoning and permitting improvements that can help existing businesses thrive and attract new ones that align with Acton’s values. Surveying residents to identify unmet business needs, and actively marketing Acton to potential business will help expand new business potential. I will work to broaden our commercial base, support our local entrepreneurs, and build a more balanced, sustainable future for Acton’s residents.
Climate and Environment
Acton’s Climate Action Plan sets bold goals for reducing emissions. Acton residents and Town staff, boards, and committees have worked hard to advance these goals. I strongly support these efforts, and will work for continued progress and outreach to residents not yet engaged in these issues.
We need, as much as possible, to ensure that achieving Acton’s climate and environment goals also improves the health and livability of our community.
One important aspect of this is keeping tabs on the safety and adequacy of our water supply; I will support collaboration between the Town and the Acton Water District on this front.
Fiscal Stability
Acton has taken meaningful steps to support seniors through targeted tax reductions — and we can build on that progress. I believe we should expand these programs to include low‑income residents who are also struggling to stay afloat in our community. By planning carefully and ensuring responsible, sustainable budget growth, we can improve financial stability for all residents while striving to make Acton a more-affordable place to live.
Community and Civic Life
Acton thrives because of its vibrant civic life and the strength of our community institutions — from our two outstanding libraries to our Senior Center, our schools, multiple arts programs and offerings, and the many civic groups and Town committees and boards that keep Acton moving forward. Protecting and strengthening that vitality is one of the Select Board’s most important responsibilities.
Also important is maintaining the quality of our schools — integral and vibrant parts of our community. Although the coming changes in the configuration of our K–6 schools will bring some disruption for families, children, and professionals, I have confidence that our strong community bonds, excellent teachers and staff, and commitment to our children will coalesce in continued care and excellence in the education of our children.
As a member of the Select Board, I will work collaboratively with my colleagues to foster thoughtful, inclusive engagement that acknowledges our challenges and builds on our shared strengths. I will help create new opportunities — such as regular community conversations, creative use of technology, and continued consideration of how to conduct Town Meeting — to ensure every resident can have a voice in shaping Acton’s future.
Housing
The Town’s new zoning rules encourage the development of smaller, more reasonably priced homes. This is one good step, but I also want to make sure that existing multifamily housing continues to serve low- and middle-income households. I will work to ensure that the Town is helpful to any residents who want to build ADUs (accessory dwelling units) — which contribute to solving the housing crunch in Acton and the state.
Transportation
Sidewalks connect neighbors and neighborhoods and support vital commercial districts. I will promote the building of sidewalks and bicycle lane improvements to enhance safety, community interaction, and livability.
Acton has invested heavily in the redevelopment of Kelley’s Corner to improve traffic, safety, and community connection. As this project comes to completion over the coming year, we will learn from that experience as the Town undertakes other major infrastructure projects.
Efficient, affordable, and predictable local transportation options can be a real boon for Acton folks who don’t drive, and for anyone who wants to be less car dependent, but wants to get stuff done around town and participate in the life of the community. I will look to ensure that our bus/shuttle services (CrosstownConnect.org) are as accessible and efficient as possible. Improving the availability of EV charging options is also on my list — especially for those who live in multifamily buildings. Maintenance of town infrastructure by our Department of Public Works is work that can be a bit “invisible” to the public, but is essential for the community’s safety, health, and quality of life.