Marlborough Man Mounts Write-In Council Campaign: Steve Judd Q&A

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.

In the Ward 3 race, only candidate Robert Preciado will appear on the ballot — but he is facing a challenge from write-in candidate Steve Judd. To help voters decide who they'll pick ahead of the November election, Patch asked both candidates to answer a questionnaire. Here's how Judd answered:

Name: Steve Judd

How old will you be as of Election Day? 64

Does your campaign have a website? If so, include the URL here. Steven Judd For Ward 3

Education: High school graduate, U.S. Coast Guard "A" School, various construction management-related education, training, and licensure

What is your occupation? Carpenter/Project Foreman, 40+ years

Do you have a family? If so, please tell us about them. I have been married to my wife, Sharon, for 36+ years. We raised our daughter, Katherine, in Marlborough.

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'm seeking this office to ensure Ward 3 has a competent, pragmatic voice as Marlborough continues to evolve.

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

The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is poorly-managed infrastructure, which includes capital assets, municipal and public safety personnel (schools, police, fire, DPW, additional municipal offices). To address these challenges, I intent to get the West Side Fire Station back on track, and work to ensure adequate staffing for our growing population.

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

I've been living in Marlborough for 36 years, which gives me a unique and seasoned perspective into the workings of the City, and more importantly, what our ward requires of a city councilor.

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

The seat has been vacated.

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

Ensuring the residents of Ward 3 enjoy the quality of life that they deserve. To achieve this, I hope to strategically continue the upward momentum of our vibrant downtown. Further, I aim to ensure the businesses of our whole ward are good neighbors to the residents.

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

As my job I manage multi-million dollar construction projects. Twenty years ago, my wife and I started a neighborhood group which changed the dynamic, especially the safety, of Ward Park. My wife and I were also very active in the public schools system while raising our daughter, including engaging parental participation to ease the stress of our teachers.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

If you're going to do something, jump in with both feet.

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

I will be an active voice for the entirety of Ward 3.

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.