About the Candidate
More than 40 years as finance executive (at Newrez since 2000). Experienced negotiator and skilled in financial assessment. Married to Suzie, a local glass artist; three sons, youngest of whom is a local firefighter.
Education
University of Vermont bachelor’s of arts in economics and psychology, Harvard University business CSS course
Previous campaigns and elected office(s) held
Served on Ogunquit Budget Review Committee since 2023. Previously served on Select Board and School Committee in North Andover, Massachusetts.
Top three priorities
1) Apply proven budget experience from two Budget Review Committee terms to keep town spending responsible and transparent.
2) Ensure resident and public safety with reliable fully staffed, well-supported police and fire departments.
3) Put the comprehensive plan to work — honoring citizen input and protecting the natural resources that define our town.
Why are you running?
I’ve seen and understand what makes Ogunquit irreplaceable: the extraordinary landscape, history and people. Our town voted overwhelmingly to support the Comprehensive Plan. A commitment to preserve our past and protect the future; I want to deliver that vision with dedication and experienced leadership. On your behalf, I’ll draw on my years serving Ogunquit as a twice-elected member of the Budget Review Committee, the Shellfish Commission chair, a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals and my professional experience as a senior banker.
What is the biggest challenge facing your community? The biggest opportunity?
The greatest challenge and opportunity is delivering necessary, reliable and high-quality town services while balancing their cost in face of the financial pressures residents feel. Equally important is how we work through it together — open, thoughtful and respectful public discussions where neighbors truly hear one another, which hopefully, in turn, will develop real solutions. The Select Board can set an example by promoting understanding and providing solutions that benefit the entire Ogunquit community.
If you could change one thing about how your community functions, what would it be and why?
I’m open to collectively what Ogunquit residents believe is needed. The interests, experience and opinions could set an important direction for the town. It seems many folks struggle with the complexity of town services and become frustrated by a lack of clear understanding about needs, costs and considerations. Better tools, a more user-friendly website, regular Facebook updates and community forums would help. Most importantly, the Select Board should actively seek out resident input for the future.
Do you support more development in your community? Why or why not?
Thoughtfully and cautiously, drawing on my Zoning Board of Appeals experience, I say yes. Ogunquit’s proven ordinances have protected our character for years (no chains, firm height limits, restricted shoreline development). Clear residential and business zones, aligned with state statutes for accessory dwelling units, have struck a healthy balance. I welcome new businesses and homes as long as we adhere to the ordinances that protect the quality and character of Ogunquit.