To the editor:
I am writing to endorse Alexis Leahy for the Select Board seat in the upcoming town election on Tuesday, April 9. Lynnfield is a wonderful place to live. We owe much to the town’s past leaders, however the town is facing new and different challenges. The additional growth to Lynnfield’s tax base that MarketStreet afforded us is over. With limited opportunities for new development, we must be increasingly efficient with our resources if we want to maintain or expand the level of the town’s services, including our school system. We need fresh perspectives on the Select Board to help us think creatively and objectively about our town’s future. Alexis is the right choice to help guide us forward.
I’ve had the honor of serving with Alexis for the past two years on Lynnfield’s Finance Committee. During that time, I’ve witnessed firsthand Alexis’ systematic and pragmatic approach to our town’s plans and its finances, including her support of public safety, the schools, and other town needs while ensuring all departments are effectively planning for the future. In her professional career, Alexis supervises large banks and insurance companies for the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. Her analytical ability and adherence to process come through immediately when she engages with town departments in our meetings. These skills have repeatedly proven valuable by challenging departments to justify expenditures while also providing imaginative recommendations and solutions to the operational challenges they face.
Alexis also previously served in multiple leadership roles on the Summer Street School PTO, demonstrating her commitment to public education in Lynnfield. As SSS PTO treasurer during COVID, she was able to keep the PTO operational through sound fiscal practices at a time when fundraisers weren’t possible. As PTO president, she was able to organize and lead the parent volunteers to bring back cherished community events like Pasta-Palooza and Spooktacular. Throughout her time serving on the PTO Board, Alexis fostered open communication between families, staff, and administration, leading to improved relations and outcomes for all.
Lynnfield would be well-served to have a Select Board member of Ms. Leahy’s caliber. Alexis would bring critical thinking and a much-needed process-driven approach to the board. In her role as Select Board member, I’m confident Alexis would continue to look for efficiencies within our budget and help the town develop valuable financial models, like a multi-year capital plan. Alexis clearly possesses the capabilities, vision, and commitment required to be an effective member of the Select Board.
Please join me in supporting the future of Lynnfield by voting Leahy for Select Board!!
Sincerely,
Thomas Kayola
