Marlborough Councilor Michael Ossing Returns For 13th Term In 2023

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 Council President Michael Ossing answered:

Name: Michael H. Ossing

How old will you be as of Election Day? 64

Education: 1977 Marlboro High School graduate. 1981 Bachelor of Science degree in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Lowell.

What is your occupation? Retired after being employed at the Seabrook Station Nuclear Power Plant for over 35 years. At Seabrook Station, I have held various engineering, project management, and leadership positions including Licensing Manager and Engineering Programs Manager.

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them. I am 64 years old and have lived in Marlboro for 62 years. I have been married to my lovely wife Linda for 33 years. We have two wonderful children. Kaylin age 32 and Cameron age 31. Both are Marlboro Hogh School graduates.

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective? 12 term Marlboro City Councilor at Large, Chair Marlboro Municipal Aggregation Committee, Trustee on the Marlboro Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB) Committee, Board of Director on the Marlboro Economic Development Corporation, Chair Massachusetts Municipal Association Energy and the Environment Policy Committee, and Council on Aging Board member.

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 am running because I believe my experience, education and passion for a government that solves problems will ensure that Marlboro plans for and prospers in the future.

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

Ensuring Marlboro residents can afford to live in the city. I will continue to be the financial conservative on the council that has implemented fiscal policies that contributed to steady and predictable tax adjustments that are lower than our surrounding communities while providing outstanding city services.

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

Leadership and financial acumen. My council colleagues acknowledge my leadership skills by unanimously electing me City Council President for four consecutive years. I have guided the city council through COVID as well as leading the council to secure over $7,000,000 for the West Side Fire Station. My knowledge of city finances is unmatched by any of my colleagues and has guided Marlboro to multiple AAA bond ratings and the ability to fund the new Goodnow Brothers school and renovated library with minimal impact on the taxes.

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

Fiscal responsibility - Working to ensure the residents of Marlboro get the most for their tax dollar. Work towards a steady, stable, and predictable yearly tax adjustments. Ensuring public safety positions are staffed to support the needs of Marlboro and its residents. Continuing to expand the City’s green footprint. Ensuring the finances are in place to fund the library renovation and a Fire Station on the west side of the city. Revise the zoning for the Donald Lynch Boulevard area to ensure it is a healthy economic engine for the city.

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

Two significant contributions. The City’s financial position has improved significantly since I started on the council. This is a reflection in my efforts to understand city finances and make sound financial decisions that makes Marlboro a great place to live, work and play. Second, I introduced legislation that changed the way the City municipal aggregation program operates. This has saved Marlboro residents over $17,000,000 in their electricity bills since 2019. During the six month period last winter, the average homeowner using 600 kW of electricity saved over $147 month or over $880 during the winter season. That is money in your pocket!

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

“It can be done!” We have the people and the talent in the city to address any problem or challenge.

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.