Experience Counts

Delivering Results Through Action and Accountability

As I stated during my first run for Select Board, I am not someone who over-promises and under-delivers. I am action-driven and committed to measurable results.I bring a wealth of experience and a deep knowledge of local government to my role, and I’m proud of the work we’ve accomplished together. My understanding of both day-to-day operations and the policies that guide our community allows me to provide steady, effective leadership and ensure a seamless path forward on the Select Board.

When I first embarked on this journey, the concerns outlined below were raised repeatedly during conversations with residents. Some were addressed quickly; others required sustained effort and long-term commitment. In each case, I took action to advocate for transparency, fiscal responsibility, and good governance.

I remain committed to transparency, thoughtful decision-making, and always putting our community first. I respectfully ask for your support in my re-election.

Key Issues Addressed

Escalating Budget
I questioned purchases and challenged excessive spending related to travel, conferences, and staffing within the Town Manager’s and other departmental budgets. While the former Manager chose not to reduce these line items, I successfully ensured that budget discussion is now a permanent agenda item.

Budget Oversight
To address the lack of checks and balances, proper authority controls and approval processes were implemented within the MUNIS accounting system. Residents can now review the weekly warrants (list of invoices) posted on the Town Accountant's website.

Budget Transparency
I raised concerns about the absence of detailed line items in the budget. Although the former Board declined to change the budget format, I supported the issue when it was brought forward at Town Meeting. That motion was ultimately withdrawn. The need for control and oversight of budget transfers is now being implemented. At my request, the Select Board now provides oversight and approval of all budget transfers. The Board is also collaborating on ways to increase revenue through the thoughtful sale of Town property, expanding the role of the Town Planner to include economic development, and creating a working group to support economic growth.

Legal Representation
When I was Chair, I placed an agenda item to evaluate Town Counsel. We issued a qualifications-based solicitation and received several responses. We now have top-notch representation from Harrington and Heep for Town Counsel, and Clifford and Kenny for Labor Counsel. Staff and employees have received training and support on key topics to ensure we remain well informed.

Policies
One of my most important initiatives has been reviewing and updating Town policies. Multiple sets of outdated policies created unnecessary liability. Our HR policies are currently under review and being updated. The Board also adopted a new Operating Policy and Code of Conduct that reflects current best practices, replacing standards dating back to 1999.

Police Chief Issue — Resolved
Chief Ron Sellon returned to work in August 2023.

Access to Town Meeting Information
To improve accessibility, new procedures were implemented in Fall 2023, including:

• Large-print documents

• Voice-to-text accessibility for presented materials

• Assisted listening devices

Traffic Concerns
Resident traffic complaints were documented and forwarded to the appropriate departments for review and action.

Transparency and Communication
I ended the practice of labeling routine correspondence as “Attorney-Client Privileged” and ensured that all Select Board members are copied on incoming correspondence. I continue to advocate for all correspondence to be read into the record at Select Board meetings.

Residents now have access to all Select Board members through a single email link (selectboard@mansfieldma.com), eliminating the perception of a “super chair.”

Resident participation has increased at Select Board meetings, with the Board engaging in open dialogue and discussion.

Ethical Advocacy Hotline
In alignment with Audit Committee objectives, an Ethical Advocacy Hotline was established, providing employees and Board members with a confidential way to report concerns.

Restoring Trust in Appointments
I advocated for fair, open, and thoughtful appointments to Boards and Committees to rebuild public trust. Candidates are now interviewed at Board meetings. I continue to work with the Manager’s office to ensure vacancies are posted on social media.

Zoning and Affordable Homeownership
As Chair, I worked collaboratively with the Planning Board to amend zoning regulations through streamlined presentations. These changes allow for increased density in R2 and R3 zones and the adoption of ADU guidelines—an important step toward expanding affordable housing opportunities.

Experience Matters
Now more than ever, Mansfield needs experienced leadership—someone who understands the complexities of local government and will continue moving the Town forward with integrity, transparency, and results.