Tell us a little about yourself. You can include your personal background, family, outside interests that are important to who you are as a person and a candidate.
I consulted to technology companies before retiring and am making up for my previous lack of time to devote to Lexington by volunteering now. My husband and I ski, sail, and attend the theater and musical performances.
Why are you running for Town Meeting?
This is my first re-election campaign. I have been an advocate for affordable housing. I didn’t have time to devote to Lexington while working and am volunteering now. I’ve been impressed with others on the many committees in Lexington.
How has your past experience — whether in your professional life, elected office, or as a community leader — prepared you for a role in Town Meeting?
I was chair of the Affordable Housing Trust Study Committee that helped to establish the Affordable Housing Trust. I also serve on the Zoning Board (as an associate) and am a member of the Community Preservation Committee. I’m also on the Lexington Housing Needs Assessment ad hoc committee as a representative of the CPC. I’m also VP at a $20 million foundation that gives grants to nonprofits that build housing for low-income or homeless people.
What is the most important issue in this election to you personally, and what ideas do you have about how to address this issue?
Affordable housing is important to me. I’m also concerned about Article 2 and am undecided on how to vote. I’m learning a lot by viewing the Planning Board’s open sessions. While I understand that 1200+ units that will be built within five years of passing Article 34 is beyond the 800 imagined for the first decade, I’m concerned about the 15 units/acre that the proponents have offered. That will result in expensive, large apartments and will reduce the number of affordable units in Lexington, putting our Subsidized Housing Inventory at risk of falling below 10% and allowing, under 40B, developers to build anything anywhere. I’m also enthusiastic that 59% of the 1200+ are single apartments, ideal for young people and the elderly. And most of these are rentals, rather than condos, which the Atlantic points out, are better for mobility.
I read every email sent to me and respond when I have reached a position on an Article. I feel it is important to respond. Although we don’t participate in group sports, I have learned a lot about recreation from being on the CPC.