Sean P. Kelly For Select Board

I am a proud resident of Westford, father to Damian, Nolan, and Adrian, and partner to Breana. I bring a range of priorities and initiatives to the table, including:

New Leadership for a Changing Westford

Westford has evolved over the years but continues to thrive because it maintains the charm of a small New England town. Our community boasts beautiful trails and undeveloped areas while also attracting high-end commercial partners. As the town grows, we need leadership that understands the residents’ expectations for high-quality services and recognizes that revenue sources have shifted over time. We need a leader who can adapt to these changes, and I am ready to answer that call.

Competent Leadership and a Track Record of Success

I have been a member of the School Committee since 2019. During my tenure, I’ve contributed to the development of school policies that serve as models across the Commonwealth, navigated the largest public health crisis in a century, negotiated contracts with the Town’s largest union—the teacher’s union, and helped usher in a new Superintendent. I’ve also supported new initiatives to benefit young working families. Full-Day Kindergarten has positioned Westford as a prime destination for families seeking top-tier education.

In uncertain times, we need competent municipal leaders. I offer stability and a steady, even-handed approach to leadership.

Ensure Sustainable Funding for Our Schools

Westford’s greatest achievement has always been its first-class school system — a model of excellence in the Merrimack Valley and throughout the Commonwealth. To maintain this high standard, we must prioritize student success, provide diverse and accessible programs, retain talented staff, and ensure school safety.

At the same time, we must continue to strengthen our emergency response services, including police and fire, which safeguard our families and provide peace of mind.

With a new school building on the horizon, we can anticipate increased expenditures but there are also opportunities for cost savings. The Select Board needs members who will work collaboratively with the School Committee and other departments to achieve our shared goal: delivering a top-tier education for Westford’s children while maintaining a balanced budget.

Fiscal Responsibility and Aging Population

The past few years have been fiscally challenging for moderate sized towns like Westford. While the future holds promise, many pitfalls still lie ahead. I am deeply aware of these challenges and possess the financial expertise necessary to help guide the town through them.

The deteriorating Fire Station in Nabnasset will need attention in the coming years and Boston Road construction along with library renovations are on the horizon. Further, we need to be mindful of our aging population of Westford make concerted efforts to make sure this is a place they can continue to live in during their later years.

Over the past six years, I have dedicated significant time to reviewing budgets and participating in lengthy budget meetings. I have a solid understanding of the challenges our town and schools face. With around 80% of our budgets tied to salaries, my experience in union contract negotiations will be an asset in navigating the best path forward.

Continued Tradition of Excellence

Westford is renowned for its excellent schools. Our town must continue offering programs that attract growing families to our community.

This reality is often seen as competing with the town’s resources, but it does not have to be. We can explore opportunities to combine town and school positions, as well as share resources with neighboring communities, which would allow us to maintain town services without drastic budget increases year over year. This approach enables us to support our aging community and keep our neighbors safe while preserving the excellence of our schools.

PRIOR ENDORSEMENTS