Table of Contents
Preferred contact method:
bergstromm@gmail.com
What experiences and perspectives would you contribute to Town Meeting?
I bring nine years of experience serving on the Winchester School Committee, where I have helped oversee one of the town’s largest and most complex budgets. In that role, I have reviewed and approved annual operating budgets, long-term capital plans, and collective bargaining agreements, while working closely with residents, families, educators, and town leadership.
This experience has given me a strong understanding of Winchester’s municipal finances, the connection between school and town budgets, and the importance of long-term planning and responsible use of stabilization funds to sustain high-quality services.
During my tenure, I also served on the Housing Partnership Board, where I worked to address the challenges of expanding affordable housing and ensuring that Winchester remains accessible to young families, seniors, and a diverse workforce.
In addition, I was involved in the Community Preservation Act from the ground up—advocating for its adoption at Town Meeting and later serving on the Community Preservation Committee. This work has helped secure dedicated funding for recreation, historic preservation, and affordable housing—critical investments that had often been deferred and are essential to Winchester’s long-term strength.
What are two or three issues facing Winchester that you think are most important and what are your positions on them?
- Long-term financial planning and capital needs.
Winchester faces significant capital investments in school facilities, town buildings, and infrastructure. It is critical that these needs be addressed through thoughtful, long-term planning that balances fiscal responsibility with maintaining safe, functional public facilities. I support proactive capital planning, transparent financial decision-making, and the responsible use of stabilization funds to address these needs. - Maintaining strong public schools as a cornerstone of the community.
Our schools are central to Winchester’s identity and success. High-quality public education benefits the entire town by strengthening the community and supporting property values. I support continued investment in our schools while ensuring that financial decisions align with overall town priorities and long-term sustainability. - Override funding
One of the most important issues facing Winchester is the need to pass an operating override to sustain essential municipal services. Proposition 2½ limits revenue growth while costs continue to rise, creating a structural gap. I support a transparent and responsible override to ensure we can continue to fund public safety, infrastructure, and our schools at the level residents expect.
A key priority within this effort is strengthening literacy and math instruction. These foundational skills are essential to student success, and targeted investments in evidence-based reading and math programs will help ensure all students build strong academic foundations.
Passing an override is necessary to maintain Winchester’s financial stability and preserve the high-quality services that define our community.
What is a special challenge in your precinct that might not be faced in other precincts?
Precinct 3 includes the Town Center, where residents are directly affected by decisions about historic preservation, redevelopment, and compliance with the MBTA Communities Act. The proposed demolition of the Carriage House highlighted the difficult balance between preserving Winchester’s historic character and allowing thoughtful reinvestment.
In addition, the MBTA Communities Act will require zoning changes to allow multifamily housing in areas near transit. While this creates opportunities to support housing diversity and strengthen our Town Center, it also requires careful planning to ensure new development fits Winchester’s scale, protects historic resources, and aligns with infrastructure capacity.
These issues are especially visible in Precinct 3 and require thoughtful, informed decision-making that balances preservation, housing needs, and the long-term vitality of the Town Center.
Why should voters elect you to represent them?
I am asking for your vote because I bring nine years of experience making difficult decisions on the Winchester School Committee, overseeing one of the town’s largest budgets and helping guide Winchester through complex financial and policy challenges. I understand how town government works, and I know the importance of balancing fiscal responsibility with maintaining the high-quality services our residents expect.
As a parent and long-time community member, I have a personal stake in Winchester’s future. I have dedicated years to public service because I care deeply about preserving what makes Winchester special—strong schools, sound finances, and a vibrant community.
I will bring experience, independence, and a long-term perspective to Town Meeting, and I will work to ensure Winchester remains a strong and sustainable town for future generations.
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