Served three terms on Rec & Parks
If re-elected, what are your goals for your term?
If re-elected, my goal is to complete Phase 1 of the Reynolds Park Refurbishment Project, which is currently at 30% design phase. I am grateful to the town departments, neighbors and sports leaders for working together to make this a reality. This collaboration is how government should work: inclusive, provides long-term solutions, is maintenance-focused and is fiscally responsible.
What skills/experience do you bring to the table?
I have over 20 years of experience building and rebuilding teams to revitalize organizations.
If there’s one thing you could change about Marblehead’s recreation programs and parks with a magic wand, what would it be?
Thanks to Jamie Bloch, superintendent of Recreation and Parks, the department has transformed over the last 12 months, and many wishlist items have been achieved. Still, if I had a magic wand, I would create a 10,000-square-foot dog park on the north side of Coffin School, providing a dedicated, accessible space for the 40% of our community who own dogs. If I had a second magic wand, I would transform Eveleth School into a multi-generational recreation center, offering a broader range of programming for all ages.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing Rec & Parks?
Under Jamie Bloch’s leadership, the department’s efficiency and pride are at an all-time high. We need to improve park beautification and barrier-free access, which will require a capital investment. Right now, no park in Marblehead is fully ADA-compliant, which is unacceptable.
Recreation and Parks is working with Brendan Callahan, Community Development director, on a grant and plans to upgrade walkways and bathrooms at Chandler Hovey and to refurbish pavilions funded by the revolving fund. When completed, this will be a strong step in the right direction for accessibility for all.
What is your favorite park?
Seaside Park and the Seaside grandstands are national treasures. With help from the Shattuck Fund, Marblehead Athletic Department, Boosters, and the Recreation and Parks revolving fund, Seaside will undergo complete refurbishment after summer play. This public-private partnership will improve drainage, beautification and quality of play for years to come.
What about your favorite recreation program over the years?
That is easy… The Sweet Heart dance.
