Some Town committees can fall into inertia, with too little emphasis on rigorous data analysis and real problem-solving. The Warrant Committee—Belmont’s finance committee and one I served on for several years—is a clear example and a priority for improvement.

Its recommendations carry significant weight on budgets and financial issues. While members work hard and bring a great deal of talent, too often opinion has substituted for the difficult analytical work needed to guide the Town through serious financial challenges. Changing culture isn’t easy, but it’s necessary.

That’s why, as Moderator, I’m committed to appointing problem-solvers—people willing to do the hard, data-driven work our finances demand. I’ve already reappointed two members with strong financial expertise and appointed three more with professional backgrounds in finance, analytics, and problem-solving. Fully transforming the committee will take time, but these changes are already making a difference.

This approach extends to all Moderator-appointed committees. I’ve begun placing skilled problem-solvers on the Warrant Committee, Comprehensive Capital Budget Committee, Bylaw Review Committee, and Permanent Building Advisory Committee—and I remain committed to building the teams we need to tackle Belmont’s toughest challenges.