Mark Vital Runs For Marlborough Ward 1 Council Seat: Questionnaire

MARLBOROUGH, MA — Marlborough's 2023 election is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in years.

For the first time in a decade, there's an open race for mayor with Mayor Arthur Vigeant stepping down at the end of the year. There are also five competitive city council races for At-Large, and the Ward 2, 4, 6 and 7 seats. The Ward 6 race is wide open with incumbent Sean Navin running for an at-large seat in 2023.

To help voters decide who they'll pick ahead of the November election, Patch has asked each candidate — even those running unopposed — to answer candidate questionnaires.

Here's how Ward 1 Candidate Mark Vital answered:

Name: Mark Vital

How old will you be as of Election Day? 63

Please give us your party affiliation. Independent

Education: BA/Psychology from Clark University, MBA/HR from Rivier University, MEd Instructional Technology from Framingham University, and an EdS degree in School Administration, Planning & Policy

What is your occupation? Community Outreach Manager, Coach

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them: Wife Sondra, two sons William and Brian, daughter Dorina and two golden retrievers Hershey and Heath.

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective? I am a Recreation Department commissioner and have previously been a member of the city's cable advisory committee.

Now we'd like to ask a few questions about your reasons for running and your general views on politics and government. First, why are you seeking this office?

I have always been interested in public service and now seems like a perfect time to throw my hat in the ring.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ..., and this is what I intend to do about it.

Determining the vision of the city (What is the future of Marlborough and how will we know we are there?)

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

My varied background - 20 years in business (HR in Inc. and Fortune 500 companies) and 20 years in serving the public (teaching and coaching the students of Marlborough)

If you are challenging an incumbent, in what way has the current officeholder failed the community?

The exiting councilor of Ward 1 has done a great job. I want to follow her footsteps in serving those living in Ward 1.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

1. Future of Marlborough, 2. Traffic safety on the streets in the ward, especially the portion of Rt 20 in my ward, and 3. A homeless shelter for women in the city.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Community Service here in Marlborough, especially with the Chamber of Commerce (received the first Ann Scott award for public service here in Marlborough) and the Rotary Club of Marlborough (past-president). Founded two successful non-profits: Highland City Striders (22 years ago started this running club) and Sweats for Vets (13 years ago started this non-profit that serves homeless veterans). I am also the only candidate that that is a veteran.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Always aspire to learn more, be a student of life and always treat your neighbor as yourself.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I have made a living and spent most of my life creating partnerships with other organizations. It takes a village.

Marlborough voters will head to the polls on Nov. 7 to elect city councilors, school committee members and a new mayor. Register to vote here.