Burlington 2026 Town Meeting Candidates: Precinct 4

Tell voters a little about your background.
My husband, Mike and I bought our home in 2015. We have three children: Avery, a senior at the high school, Quinn, a freshman at Shawsheen and Shea, a second grader at Francis Wyman. My dad's family is all from Burlington, being from the city (Somerville), I've always loved the small town feel of it yet it being so convenient to major highways, and to Boston.

Why do you want to serve on Town Meeting, or why are you seeking re-election?
Since becoming a parent and a homeowner, I have seen the importance of getting involved in our government, especially at the local level.

What do you see as your charge as a Town Meeting Member in your precinct?
An important charge of a Town Meeting member is to represent the voices of Burlington residents by making informed, thoughtful decisions that balance fiscal responsibility with continued investment in our schools, infrastructure, and overall quality of life. As our town continues to grow, it's critical that we plan carefully and make decisions that support both our current families and future generations.

What do you see as the three biggest issues facing Burlington right now and how should Town Meeting address them?
As a parent and resident, I see the biggest issues as managing our town's growth, continuing to invest in our schools, and being fiscally responsible. We're very much a growing community, and it's important we plan carefully so development supports—not strains—our infrastructure and quality of life. I also strongly believe in investing in our schools, as they are central to our children's success and Burlington's future. At the same time, we need to be mindful of taxpayers and make thoughtful, balanced financial decisions. That's where Town Meeting plays such an important role.

The high school debt exclusion vote failed last fall. What do you think happens next and what role should Town Meeting play?
We need to listen to the town and figure out a way to meet the needs of our students and retain them, but also maintaining financial responsibility for our elderly population. We need to construct a suitable plan that fits ALL. The high school is used for so much more than just our students.

Burlington has significant capital needs — including a new high school — at a time when many residents are feeling the pressure of rising costs. How will you weigh those competing realities when voting on major expenditures?
I believe it's our responsibility to balance the very real financial pressures facing residents with the long-term needs of our community. Investments like a new high school are not just expenses—they are investments in our children, our property values, and Burlington's future. At the same time, I understand that many families are feeling stretched, especially during these uncertain times. That's why I would carefully evaluate any major expenditure by asking: Is it necessary? Is it well-planned? And is it being done in the most cost-effective way possible?

As a Town Meeting member, I would support thoughtful, phased planning, explore all available funding options, and prioritize transparency—so residents understand both the need and the impact. My goal is to make decisions that are responsible today, while not delaying critical investments that will cost us more in the long run.

How will you solicit input from your constituents?
By staying accessible and engaged—connecting with residents in the community, at school and sporting events, and through email and social media—while making sure I'm actively listening to a wide range of voices. I am really excited to get involved and serve as a voice on town meeting.

No response was received.

Tell voters a little about your background.
I'm a lifelong Burlington resident, and this community has shaped who I am.

Professionally, I work in senior executive search for a global organization, where I collaborate with people at every level and handle complex issues every day. That work has taught me to listen carefully, communicate clearly, and approach decisions thoughtfully—skills I plan to bring to Town Meeting. My goal is simple: to listen, understand, and help ensure our tax dollars are spent wisely and transparently.

Outside of work, I am an active volunteer at St. Veronica's parish, where I lector, train and schedule the volunteer ministers, assist at funerals and baptisms, and lead the Women's Group that I also founded. For more than 30 years, I've also been a regular student and teacher at Steve Nugent's Karate Institute (both here in Burlington and in Winchester). Staying active, and being part of these communities, keeps me grounded and connected to the people I hope to represent.

Why do you want to serve on Town Meeting, or why are you seeking re-election?
Having lived in Burlington all my life, I have seen our town grow and change. I'm running because I care deeply about Burlington and the people who live here. I want to ensure that as we evolve, we maintain the high quality of life, excellent schools, small business presence, and strong services that make our town a place people want to call home. Serving on Town Meeting is a way for me to give back to the place that has helped shape my life.

What do you see as your charge as a Town Meeting Member in your precinct?
My charge is to represent the residents of my precinct with integrity, transparency, and genuine attentiveness. I want people to know that they can talk to me, that I will listen carefully to their concerns and perspectives, understand how proposed articles might affect them, and vote in a way that reflects both their input and the long-term well-being of the town. I will always be considerate and thoughtful, ensuring that every decision is grounded in fairness, fiscal responsibility, and a commitment to maintaining the quality of life that makes Burlington such a special community.

What do you see as the three biggest issues facing Burlington right now and how should Town Meeting address them?
Three issues that immediately come to mind (in no particular order) are:

1. Managing Growth while Preserving Burlington's Character — Burlington continues to evolve, and we need to make sure development aligns with long-term planning and doesn't overwhelm our infrastructure or residential areas. Town Meeting should review proposals carefully and prioritize thoughtful, balanced growth.
2. Addressing Major Capital Needs Responsibly — Projects like the high school and other aging facilities are essential, but they come with significant costs at a time when many residents are feeling financial pressure. Town Meeting must scrutinize scope, timing, and the financial impact so we invest wisely and maintain transparency with residents to ensure they understand the trade-offs before major votes.
3. Supporting Residents Amid Rising Costs — With property taxes, utilities, and everyday expenses increasing, we need to maintain strong services while being mindful of the burden on households, especially seniors and families on fixed incomes. Town Meeting should look for efficient, budget-friendly ways to meet community needs.

The high school debt exclusion vote failed last fall. What do you think happens next and what role should Town Meeting play?
The debt exclusion's failure means we need to pause and rebuild community trust. The need for a safe, functional high school remains, but the path forward has to be clearer and more collaborative. I believe the next step is a transparent review of the project's scope, costs, and alternatives, paired with real opportunities for residents to share why they voted no.

Town Meeting's role is to evaluate any revised proposal carefully, ask direct questions, and ensure the public has clear, accessible information. Our job is to help guide a process that's fiscally responsible, transparent, and rooted in community input so that any future plan is one that residents feel confident supporting.

Burlington has significant capital needs — including a new high school — at a time when many residents are feeling the pressure of rising costs. How will you weigh those competing realities when voting on major expenditures?
Burlington's capital needs are real, but so is the financial pressure many residents are feeling. When I vote on major expenditures, I'll focus on balancing long-term investment with affordability. That means looking closely at the necessity, timing, and cost-effectiveness of each project, and being clear about the tax impact. My goal is to support essential projects that strengthen Burlington, while being mindful of the burden on households.

How will you solicit input from your constituents?
I plan to be accessible and easy to reach. I'll share my contact information, respond quickly, and make myself available for conversations with neighbors — whether at meetings, community events, or just around town. Listening directly to people is the best way for me to understand what matters to them before I vote on their behalf.

Tell voters a little about your background.
Simply, I am a townie. I grew up in Burlington and I have been teaching at Fox Hill for 21 years after getting my master's degree in 2005 from UMass Amherst. I am married to another elementary educator in Burlington and have two daughters, 13 and 15 years old who both attend Burlington Public Schools.

Why do you want to serve on Town Meeting, or why are you seeking re-election?
I am seeking re-election because I think I bring a unique perspective of living in town for most of my life and also being a teacher employed by the town of Burlington. I am not afraid to share my opinions and speak up at town meetings. I think critically about the short-term and long-term future of where this town is headed. I have had one 3 year term as a precinct 4 town meeting member and I would be incredibly proud to continue to represent precinct 4 residents.

What do you see as your charge as a Town Meeting Member in your precinct?
My charge is to represent precinct 4 residents, thoughtfully, independently and responsibly in a way that balances neighborhood interests with the long-term needs of the whole town.

What do you see as the three biggest issues facing Burlington right now and how should Town Meeting address them?
The biggest issue that the town faces is balancing the short-term and long-term needs of the town in a fiscally responsible, yet proactive way. Needing a police station, Fox Hill, arguably Pine Glen, and BHS should have never happened at the same time. Long term planning is crucial to the future of the town and we need to do a better job in that area. Town meeting members need to be involved in this long-term outlook and demand this of our planning board, school committee, and select board.

The high school debt exclusion vote failed last fall. What do you think happens next and what role should Town Meeting play?Regarding the debt exclusion vote for BHS that failed, it was very clear that that was not the direction that residents wanted to go. I support the continued work of the BHS building committee to work towards a plan for BHS that makes sense for the town.

Burlington has significant capital needs — including a new high school — at a time when many residents are feeling the pressure of rising costs. How will you weigh those competing realities when voting on major expenditures?
The approach is to protect taxpayers from unnecessary strain while still investing responsibly in the infrastructure the community depends on. It's not about choosing one over the other—it's about making thoughtful, staged decisions that respect both realities.

How will you solicit input from your constituents?
My email is blisano11@gmail.com. Please reach out with any questions, comments, and/or concerns.

No response was received.

Tell voters a little about your background.
My wife and I moved to Burlington less than ten years ago, and we were committed to buying our home here because we loved the community and the strength of the school system. Since then, we've continued to be impressed by the incredible free public events the town and Recreation Department offer such as Celebrate Burlington, the holiday fireworks, and Thursday night music on the Common are some of our favorites.

I'm an active member of the Francis Wyman PTO, helping to raise funds for students and teachers. As a family, we spend a lot of time enjoying Burlington's parks, especially playing pickleball and sledding at Simonds Park. Burlington holds some of our favorite memories, and I want to help continue to shape Burlington as a great place to live.

Why do you want to serve on Town Meeting, or why are you seeking re-election?
I am seeking reelection to continue to represent Precinct 4. After serving one full term, I now understand the process much better and feel I can make an even stronger impact. I've built relationships, learned how to navigate Town Meeting effectively, and found my voice as a representative for Precinct 4. I'm also continuing to build name recognition so residents know who I am and feel comfortable reaching out. I'm seeking reelection because I want to keep contributing, stay engaged, and help Burlington move forward.

What do you see as your charge as a Town Meeting Member in your precinct?
As a Town Meeting Member (TMM) for Precinct 4, I see my charge as threefold:

Advocacy — I am committed to representing the interests of all Burlington residents. While businesses contribute the majority of our tax base, it is the quality of life and benefits for residents that must remain at the center of our decisions. My goal is to help guide policies that support responsible growth and a strong, vibrant community.

Accountability — As Chair of the Electronic Voting Committee, I am working to ensure that Town Meeting runs efficiently. One bonus outcome of this work is the potential for all votes on warrant articles to be recorded and made accessible. Transparency strengthens trust, and I believe residents deserve clear insight into how their representatives vote.

Informed Decision-Making — I am an active and vocal participant in Town Meeting. I come prepared by reviewing meeting minutes, researching background materials, and attending relevant committee meetings. By the time a warrant article reaches Town Meeting, I have already done the work to understand its implications and form a well-reasoned position.

"What do you see as the three biggest issues facing Burlington right now and how should Town Meeting address them?
Burlington is a fantastic place to live, work, and visit, and our residents enjoy a high quality of life. Still, there are important challenges we must address to keep Burlington strong.

1. Managing Major Financial Commitments — Financing medium and large scale capital projects remains one of Burlington's biggest long term challenges. In past years, several major projects were initiated at the same time, creating financial strain that could have been avoided with better planning. TMM needs to follow Capital Budget plans to ensure we take a more strategic approach by prioritizing projects, staggering timelines, and ensuring that each proposal is evaluated with a clear understanding of its long term financial impact on residents.
2. Housing and Affordability — Housing is a complex issue. We all want Burlington to remain affordable, yet homeowners also want to protect the value of their largest asset. I have supported zoning changes that responsibly increase housing options in appropriate areas, helping us meet demand without compromising neighborhood character or greenspaces. Town Meeting should continue to consider thoughtful, moderate zoning updates that expand housing opportunities while maintaining the qualities that make Burlington desirable.
3. Increasing Voter Participation — Local elections have the greatest impact on residents' daily lives, yet turnout remains low. While Town Meeting Members represent their precincts, direct participation through voting is essential for a healthy democracy. Town Meeting can help by supporting initiatives that improve civic engagement, increase transparency, and make it easier for residents to stay informed and involved.

The high school debt exclusion vote failed last fall. What do you think happens next and what role should Town Meeting play?
The failure to choose a high school plan residents wanted was disappointing, but the path forward is promising. Many neighbors I spoke with supported improving the high school but felt the proposal was simply too expensive. The next proposal appears to be moving toward a more reasonable middle ground. Ultimately, any plan must earn the confidence of residents before it goes back to the ballot.

Town Meeting Members need to fully understand the School Building Committee's work and be part of the conversation well before a warrant article appears. By the time it reaches the floor, members should already know why certain options were eliminated and why the recommended plan makes sense. A project of this scale demands that every TMM be well informed.

Burlington has significant capital needs — including a new high school — at a time when many residents are feeling the pressure of rising costs. How will you weigh those competing realities when voting on major expenditures?
Strong K–12 education is essential to a thriving community. When our schools are well supported, families feel connected, safety improves, and the town remains attractive for economic growth. That's why we must continue to responsibly fund our school buildings and staff, so Burlington remains a top district. At the same time, I recognize that many residents are feeling real financial pressure. When major expenditures come before Town Meeting, I weigh both realities: the long term value strong schools bring to the town and the immediate impact on taxpayers. We must continue to apply for state funding and grants. My goal is to support investments that are necessary, well planned, and financially responsible, ensuring Burlington remains a great place to live for everyone.

How will you solicit input from your constituents?
Name recognition is something I'm still building, but I want every resident of Precinct 4, and anyone in Burlington, to feel comfortable reaching out. Emailing me at KevinBurlingtonMA@gmail.com is the easiest way to start a conversation, and I usually respond within a day. I'm also working to broaden the range of neighbors I hear from, beyond the people I typically interact with. I attend many town events, so if you see me around, please feel free to share your thoughts!

Tell voters a little about your background.
I have been a Burlington resident since 2017 and have proudly served as a Town Meeting Member since 2018. During that time, I've been engaged in our civic life, participating in the Marshall Simonds Middle School Principal Search Committee, attending public safety discussions with the Burlington Police Department, contributing to Water Supply Subcommittee meetings, and staying in close communication with Precinct 4 residents on key issues. In 2020, I served as the lead proponent for the Town Meeting article that secured funding for Burlington Public Schools' first Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, a measure that passed 77–33 and reflected our community's values and aspirations.

Professionally, I bring more than 20 years of interdisciplinary experience in public health, evidence generation, and strategic leadership across the biopharmaceutical industry. I currently serve as Vice President and Head of Neurology & Immunology, Global Value Demonstration at EMD Serono, where I lead global efforts to improve patient access. My career has spanned roles at Bristol-Myers Squibb, Deloitte Consulting, Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics, the Hospital for Special Surgery, Columbia University, and Hunter College, giving me a broad perspective on systems, data, and the real-world impact of policy decisions. My work has always centered on improving systems, outcomes, and equity, skills that translate directly into thoughtful, informed decision-making at Town Meeting.

Why do you want to serve on Town Meeting, or why are you seeking re-election?
Serving on Town Meeting is a responsibility I take seriously. Over the past eight years, I have attended nearly every session, missing only those that conflicted with unavoidable business travel. I prepare extensively for each warrant by attending relevant board and committee meetings, speaking with stakeholders, and reviewing regional and statewide trends that may affect Burlington.

I'm running for re-election because I believe in transparent, data-driven decision-making and in being accessible and responsive to residents. I want to continue representing Precinct 4 with diligence, integrity, and a commitment to Burlington's long-term health and sustainability.

What do you see as your charge as a Town Meeting Member in your precinct?
My charge is to be informed, accessible, and accountable. That means:

• Staying current on local, regional, and national trends that affect Burlington
• Preparing thoroughly for every article
• Being transparent about my votes and willing to explain the reasoning behind them
• Listening to residents and ensuring their concerns are reflected in Town Meeting discussions

Precinct 4 is diverse and dynamic, and my role is to ensure its perspectives are represented thoughtfully and consistently.

What do you see as the three biggest issues facing Burlington right now and how should Town Meeting address them?

1. Education & Capital Planning — Burlington faces major school infrastructure needs, including a new high school. Town Meeting must insist on clear planning, transparent communication, and lessons-learned analyses so we avoid repeating past missteps and build community trust.
2. Housing Affordability & Middle-Layer Housing — The recent lottery for 23 affordable units at LifeTime Living drew more than 800 applications, about 200 from Burlington residents. This is a clear signal that we need more diverse housing options for seniors, young professionals, and families. Town Meeting should support zoning and development strategies that expand attainable housing while preserving Burlington's character.
3. Economic Development & Fiscal Sustainability — Burlington benefits enormously from its split tax rate and strong commercial base. Maintaining that advantage requires smart economic development and long-term financial planning. Town Meeting should continue to support policies that strengthen our commercial sector while ensuring residents benefit from stable taxes and high-quality services.

The high school debt exclusion vote failed last fall. What do you think happens next and what role should Town Meeting play?
The next step must be a thorough, transparent Lessons Learned analysis. Residents deserve clarity on what went wrong, whether in communication, cost escalation, timing, or process. Town Meeting's role is to insist on this analysis, ensure community voices are incorporated, and support a revised plan that is financially responsible and broadly understood.

Burlington has significant capital needs — including a new high school — at a time when many residents are feeling the pressure of rising costs. How will you weigh those competing realities when voting on major expenditures?
Balancing these realities requires discipline, creativity, and long-term thinking. Other communities have adopted dynamic funding strategies, such as strengthening capital stabilization funds and smoothing debt service over time to reduce the tax impact on residents. Burlington should explore similar approaches.

When I voted "No" on the Fox Hill funding article, it was because I feared it would jeopardize our ability to move forward with the high school project, an asset that serves the entire community. I later voted "Yes" on the new high school because I believed it was the right long-term investment. These decisions reflect my commitment to weighing costs, timing, and community impact holistically.

How will you solicit input from your constituents?
I make myself accessible through email, conversations, and community events. I also proactively reach out when major issues arise, and I welcome dialogue about upcoming votes. Transparency and responsiveness are essential to effective representation, and I am committed to both.