Dedham 2022 Candidate Profile: Erin Boles Welsh

DEDHAM, MA - Dedham voters have a big choice to make in Saturday's election for Select Board.

There are two seats up for election because VIce Chair Sarah MacDonald decided not to run for reelection. Dimitria Sullivan, the current Select Board chair, is running for reelection. There are three challengers: Jason Brogan, Cheryl Sullivan and Erin Boles Welsh.

To help voters get to know each candidate, Dedham Patch sent all candidates a questionnaire to probe their thoughts on town issues. Here's what Erin Boles Welsh had to say.

Age as of Election Day: 44

Position sought: Dedham Select Board

Family: My husband Tim and I are raising our three children, Thomas (13), Amelia (11) and Keira (10).

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education: Boston College, B.A.; Boston College, Master's (Community Organizing, Policy, Planning and Administration)

Occupation: Public Policy, Government Affairs and Organizational Management; 20+ years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office:

Town Meeting Member, Precinct 6

Campaign website: www.erinfordedham.com

Why are you seeking elective office?

Dedham is a great place to live, learn and grow — we have a strong community, civically engaged citizens, and town pride. I grew up in Dedham, in a hardworking union family and now, I am raising my three children here with my husband, along with supporting my mother in our home. I have a deep respect for the balance needed to advance our town responsibly, and respectfully.

For more than 20 years, I have dedicated my career to developing and implementing policies that create healthier communities - working in and with complex state and federal government structures and nonprofit organizations.

I have significant experience in organizational finance and budget management. Within a year of taking over leadership at a past organization, I brought a budget that ran on a deficit for the previous 5 years back into the black - using restraint and only expending what we took in. And at another program, I increased revenue by 50% within my first 3 years, through advocating for additional state funding and winning a highly competitive multi-million dollar federal grant awarded to only 5 programs nationally.

I will contribute these skills and dedication to fact-driven decision making and community feedback to the Select Board.

The single most pressing issue facing our board is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

We are a community with much more commonality than division. We want strong schools, safe streets, affordability, fiscally responsible town operations, and a community character that holds our small town heart near.

As a community, we will also always have a diversity of opinion. Differing perspectives can contribute great value, challenging better solutions. Our community also has some voices that speak loudly, and in manners that are divisive in tone, and sometimes in content. Social media often exacerbates this problem, amplifying voices and values in a way that feels over represented, or doesn't lead to productive solutions.

My voice reflects the values of a community that embraces a positive, inclusive and strong vision for our future, and that moves our town forward. I believe this approach represents what the majority of our town wants. I will work to spread respectful dialogue through my interactions, to seek out and engage in productive and respectful conversations, keeping our town strong and moving in a positive direction.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

How our town makes decisions is critical. As we face upcoming decisions and action around pedestrian safety, sidewalks, roadways (such as Bussey St and the Rt. 1 corridor projects), town budget limitations, and more, I am a leader who is dedicated to seeking data, research, facts and community-feedback to create better solutions that last and that move our town forward. We have a new Master Plan, created using these guidelines as well. It will be critical for the town to prioritize and move forward with the most important initiatives, thinking innovatively about bringing new resources and external funding to get these initiatives over the finish line. I have over 20 years experience doing just that and will bring that experience to the Select Board.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

I am committed to decision-making that is accessible and equitable for all. The diversity of Dedham strengthens our community, our neighbors have a wealth of diverse personal experiences and much value to contribute to our town. We must create space for all in our community to belong, feel safe and feel that our town is proactive in addressing these needs. As a town leader, I will listen, learn and act while respectfully taking guidance from diverse members of our community who are identifying areas of priority to advance these efforts.

I will work to maintain our town’s strong financial position, while delivering the services we expect for our community — expanding new grant and non-taxpayer revenue sources and partnerships that advance our town with supplemental options to residential taxes.

I will advocate for our older adults. I’ve seen the challenges my parents faced trying to stay in their home, or finding care and housing that was affordable and accessible. And I know they are not alone. I will attend Council on Aging meetings and work to prioritize the services that our seniors need.

I will support the many vibrant public spaces, roadways, and recreational areas, ensuring they are safe, accessible, and walkable.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

Thank you to all Dedham residents reading this spotlight, taking the time to learn about the candidates, positions and issues and exercising your right to vote this Saturday, April 9th. I respectfully ask for your vote.