Table of Contents
Preferred contact method:
susankopmanlewis@gmail.com
What experiences and perspectives would you contribute to Town Meeting?
I have been a Winchester resident since 1999, have raised two daughters here (Sophie, WHS Class of 2017 and Jessie, WHS Class of 2021), and have been engaged actively in a number of civic organizations. In the past, I served as co-president of the Family Action Network, a member of the Steering Committee of the LWV Winchester, and president of the Board of the Network for Social Justice. I am currently on the executive committee for the Wright-Locke Farm Conservancy board, as well as a part of the admissions team at Winchester ABC. In my professional work, I am a science teacher.
What are two or three issues facing Winchester that you think are most important and what are your positions on them?
As a Finance Committee report at the February 9 Special Town Meeting made clear, the Town faces a perpetual ongoing deficit—with revenues (3%) growing slower than School and Municipal expenses. Historically high healthcare costs and aging capital assets will continue to put pressure on our budgets. Given this situation, I applaud the efforts of the State of the Town committee, and I support the Select Board’s recent, unanimous decision to ask voters for a $11.5m override. with $9m to operating expenses and $2.5m to capital.
Reaching this unanimous decision was only possible through a process involving rigorous research, compromise, and civil discourse. We are fortunate that our citizen leaders, in general, treat one another with respect despite differences of opinion. To ensure that the Town successfully navigates various challenges ahead, it is essential that this air of civility be maintained.
Another issue of pressing concern is housing affordability. Despite recent efforts to expand the number of affordable housing units, the Town’s stock remains far below the 10% threshold needed to meet state requirements. Town Meeting should continue to support efforts so that residents at a variety of income levels, including our own municipal workers, can afford to live here.
What is a special challenge in your precinct that might not be faced in other precincts?
Precinct 3 includes our beautiful town center. To help it flourish, we should support our business owners and encourage residents to shop local and take advantage of the development opportunities unlocked by the renovated commuter rail station.
Why should voters elect you to represent them?
I will strive to be open-minded in listening to all arguments presented at Town Meeting, as well as to be well-informed before making decisions that affect residents.
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