On March 31st, voters will cast their ballots to fill two seats on the North Andover Board of Selectmen, including one being vacated by Bill Gordon, who has very capably served our town for the past six years. My name is Phil DeCologero and I am writing to respectfully ask for your vote to fill this seat.
North Andover is important to me. I grew up down the street from the Stevens Memorial Library, went to our public schools, spent my teenage years working at the old North Andover Star Market, and then put myself through Merrimack College. This town is my home, and that’s why my wife and I couldn’t imagine buying a house or raising our daughter anywhere else.
Living in North Andover has instilled me with a strong belief in serving our community. When I was a student at North Andover High School, I volunteered at St. Michael Church and the North Andover Historical Society. While at Merrimack College I interned for one of our state legislators, and then worked on our town’s behalf at the Massachusetts State House. Most recently, I served in the executive offices of municipal government, and this fall I joined Fisher College as Assistant Director of Admissions.
I have always endeavored to give back to our town. In 2008, I was appointed by the Board of Selectmen to the North Andover Sustainability Committee. Most important to me, in 2009 I helped bring business owners together as a co-founder of the North Andover Merchants Association. In 2012, I was recognized by local business owners as the North Andover Merchant Association Volunteer of the Year. That same year I was honored to be included in the Merrimack Valley Business Magazine’s “40 under 40” – a list of 40 people under the age of 40 from across our region who stood out for their work in business, education, government, and community service.
Supporting our small businesses has always been a passion of mine – a passion rooted in a firm belief that our town’s success is directly tied to a healthy and prosperous business community. I will bring this passion to the Board of Selectmen and work with our local and state officials to support existing businesses while also encouraging responsible economic growth.
Supporting the needs of our citizens is not possible without good communication. As Selectman, I will strive to always keep open lines of communication between our Board of Selectman, townspeople and other local officials. Further, I will work cooperatively with our state legislators – people who are necessary partners in moving our town forward.
Responsiveness, accessibility, and transparency are all essential to the role of Selectman. It will be the hallmark of my service should I have the fortune to be elected. Our current board has worked to meet these expectations, and I am dedicated to building upon this commitment.
I ask for one of your two votes for Selectman because my service in state and local government has given me the skills to be an effective advocate for the people who call North Andover home. I have actively served this community for the last 10 years and my public and private sector experience gives me the perspective to be a fair and thoughtful voice for all residents. I look forward to the opportunity to earn your vote.
TOWN ELECTIONS ARE MARCH 31ST IN NORTH ANDOVER