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 have lived in Lexington for 32 years, and been on Town Meeting for 22 years. I was on the School Committee for two terms. I am a retired labor lawyer. I have two grown children, and I am a former youth soccer coach. I have a particular interest in supporting our schools, including their annual operating budget, and our Town’s excellent library.

Why are you running for Town Meeting?

I believe Lexington should continue its support of an excellent school system and its strong town services. I try to be pragmatic on land use issues, balancing the need to maintain the character of the Town with adequate growth to support its financial needs and respond to the regional housing shortage. I believe my background and experience in Town government make me an effective advocate in this regard, and I would love to continue serving the Town.

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? 

My service on the school committee (six years), Executive Committee of the Cary Memorial Library Trustees (six years), and Town Meeting (22 years) demonstrate my qualifications to continue to serve as a Town Meeting Member.

What is the most important issue in this election to you personally, and what ideas do you have about how to address this issue?

Lexington has become a beacon for effective public education. Continued support for the capital and operating needs of our school system are critical to maintaining the Town’s identity and continuing desirability. While a School Committee member, I said, “Educating our children is not the only thing the Town does, but it is the most important thing the Town does.” I continue to believe that to be the case, and I have an extensive public record demonstrating how I have operationalized my beliefs.

Describe a time when you successfully collaborated with someone who held opposing views on a key issue:

I strive to use my best judgment to insure Lexington continues to be a desirable community to live in. It is no accident that people desire to live here. I try to support policies that will ensure this continues to be the case and I try to approach all issues pragmatically. I am always willing to discuss my thinking on Town issues with constituents.