As a Town Meeting Member in Precinct 1, a parent raising kids in Belmont’s schools, and someone deeply invested in our community’s future, I’ve always believed our town deserves a legislative body that’s truly co-equal—not one overshadowed by the executive branch. Town Meeting Members like me have a vital responsibility: to legislate, debate, and craft new bylaws or update outdated ones. We’re an enormously educated and thoughtful group, and it’s time we stepped up to make Belmont’s government more democratic, responsive, and forward-thinking. These changes would give all residents a clearer view of the challenges and opportunities ahead, from fiscal pressures to growth decisions.
That’s why I’ve submitted six citizen petitions for the May 2026 Annual Town Meeting. These six articles are practical, low-cost proposals that build on state laws and proven ideas from other communities. They aren’t about radical shifts—they’re about strengthening our traditions while addressing real gaps in transparency, accountability, and engagement.
Let me walk you through them, starting with what I see as a foundational step: an annual address to bring us all together. From there, I’ll touch on the need for deeper details on finances and zoning, and why electing key boards and advocating for fairer state funding are essential.
1: Annual State of the Town Report and Public Forum
2: Full Disclosure of Revolving Funds
3: Fiscal Impact Statements and Public Hearings for Zoning Articles
4: Mandatory Annual Independent Audit and Public Presentation
5: Home Rule Petition to Elect the Planning Board
6: Resolution Urging Increased State Aid to Municipalities
#1: Annual State of the Town Report and Public Forum
Like many cities, states, and even our nation, Belmont should have a dedicated moment each year where our leaders reflect and look ahead. Right now, we lack a consistent, comprehensive update that ties together our achievements, challenges, and vision.
My proposal: Require the Select Board and Town Administrator to publish a “State of the Town” report by February 15, followed by a public forum by March 1—moderated by the Town Moderator, live-streamed, and open for questions. The Select Board Chair would highlight not just policies and finances, but the stories of our residents, key accomplishments from the past year, and legislative priorities for upcoming Town Meeting.
Why it matters to me—and to Belmont: This isn’t just about data; it’s about building connection and trust. It gives us a shared starting point for debates, helping residents understand where we’ve been and where we’re headed. At minimal cost, it’s a simple way to make our government feel more accessible and human.
#2: Full Disclosure of Revolving Funds
Revolving funds—from permits, programs, and fees—are increasingly important to Belmont’s operations, but their details often aren’t as visible as they should be. Without regular, clear reporting, it’s hard for residents to track how these dollars are used or spot potential issues.
My proposal: Mandate an annual report by February 1 (with quarterly online updates) on each fund’s balances, revenues, expenditures, and projections, plus a public presentation to explain it all.
Why it matters to me—and to Belmont: With revolving funds playing a bigger role in our budget, transparency here builds confidence that fees are serving the community fairly. It’s a straightforward step to prevent imbalances and ensure accountability, especially as our town grows.
#3: Fiscal Impact Statements and Public Hearings for Zoning Articles
Zoning changes can reshape Belmont in profound ways, affecting schools, infrastructure, public safety, and taxes—yet we often discuss them without a full picture of the financial impacts.
My proposal: For every zoning amendment, require the Town to generate a fiscal impact statement with short- and long-term revenue and cost projections, plus an additional public hearing focused solely on those implications.
Why it matters to me—and to Belmont: As we face calls for more housing and commercial development, this ensures decisions are informed and balanced. It protects taxpayers from unintended burdens while supporting thoughtful growth—critical for our future.
#4: Mandatory Annual Independent Audit and Public Presentation
We already conduct annual audits as required by state law, but without a mandated public rollout, key findings and recommendations can remain tucked away in reports that few residents dig into.
My proposal: Keep the CPA-led audit but add a televised or live-streamed public meeting within 60 days to present results, answer questions, and post the full report prominently online.
Why it matters to me—and to Belmont: In an era of tight budgets and rising costs, this public step reinforces trust and allows us to address issues early. It’s low-effort but high-impact, aligning with our town’s commitment to good governance.
#5: Home Rule Petition to Elect the Planning Board
Our Planning Board handles critical decisions on land use, development, and the Master Plan, but as an appointed body, it can feel one step removed from direct resident input. We often hear “walk before we run” on big changes, yet there’s growing demand from residents for more housing and commercial opportunities.
My proposal: A home rule petition to make the board elected—five members plus one associate, with staggered three-year terms—like they do in Lexington.
Why it matters to me—and to Belmont: Elections ensure accountability to voters, bringing diverse perspectives that reflect our community’s priorities. It’s about making sure the board is responsive to the people it serves, fostering better, more trusted planning for sustainable growth.
#6: Resolution Urging Increased State Aid to Municipalities
Massachusetts lags behind, providing just 15–18% of revenues as unrestricted local aid—far below the national average or what New Hampshire and Vermont offer (30–40%). Towns like Belmont rely heavily on property taxes, capped by Proposition 2½, while costs climb, leading to structural deficits and frequent overrides.
My proposal: A non-binding resolution urging the Governor and Legislature to increase aid toward 30% over time, via inflation-adjusted UGGA, sales tax sharing, and stable Chapter 70 education funding.
Why it matters to me—and to Belmont: The numbers don’t lie—our state isn’t investing enough in education, public safety, and local needs. Belmont can and should lead on this, showing other communities how to advocate for equity. This resolution is a critical first step to ease pressure on residents without maxing out local taxes.
These petitions aren’t isolated ideas; they’re interconnected threads that weave a stronger fabric for Belmont—promoting transparency through reports and disclosures, accountability via elections and public forums, and fiscal resilience by demanding better details and fairer funding. As someone who’s seen the dedication of our residents up close, I know these changes will empower Town Meeting to fulfill its legislative role, making our town more inclusive and prepared.
For full warrant texts, FAQs, legal references, and supporting documents, visit my Google Drive folder.
Fellow Town Meeting Members and Belmont neighbors: These are our tools to build a better Belmont. Reach out to your precinct reps, discuss at community events, or amplify on social media. Together, we can pass them in May 2026 and create a government that’s truly by and for the people.
Let’s make it happen.
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