Melrose Election 2019: Ward 6 Is A Real Door-To-Door Race

MELROSE, MA — There isn't much that separates Ward 6 City Council candidate Jennifer Grigoraitis and Robert Aufiero. Maybe 20 feet?

Sure, the two might have political differences. But they share a lot more than you might think — they're next door neighbors, after all.

One of them will replace outgoing City Council elder statesman Peter Mortimer. In so doing, Grigoraitis or Aufiero will occupy one of seven seats guaranteed to have someone new next year.

Adding to the potential awkwardness is that Grigoraitis was just hours away from heading into the election uncontested. Aufiero pulled papers the day of the deadline, by far the last candidate to announce intentions.

But both claim it's business as usual on Lebanon Street.

"We've certainly been professional and courteous and I'm certainly gonna maintain that," Aufiero said. "I said to one of the other candidates that Jen and her husband are wonderful people, but this is all about the issues."

At least one of the issues they share like a backyard fence. Whoever replaces Mortimer hopes to bring a new level of transparency and communication to the ward.

"I think it's an opportunity to continue to build on what [Mortimer's] done and bring new voices to the mix and really kind of expand on how we get information out to residents," Grigoraitis said.

It's "something residents deserve more of, and that works both ways." She wants to be accessible as much as she wants to bring information back to constituents.

"I think that's part of the role of government," Grigoraitis said.

Aufiero also wants more information readily available, particularly with city finances.

"I would stand up for transparency, especially as it pertains to budget deliberations at City Hall," he said.

Aufiero understands that sometimes spending is necessary. But he wants to use skills honed in his retail profession to make sure the city doesn't spend more than it needs to to maintain efficient services.

"I come from a working middle class background and I understand the immediate effects of any tax increase," Aufiero said. "I also understand, like others, the challenges of balancing keeping a job to afford to live in a city like Melrose."

Aufiero knows there are other issues on residents' minds, too. He wants to address safety issues like tree branches that interfere with power lines and sidewalks that haven't been repaved in years.

Grigoraitis, who was involved in the override campaign and sits on the Board of the Melrose Education Foundation, also sees the need for a strict account of funds. In her day job as Chief of Staff for the Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance, she oversees a budget of $47 million in state and federal money.

She also believes in inclusion, opening up avenues for all residents of Melrose.

"I really believe and try to embody the city's motto of "One Community Open to All" as we continue to move forward," she said.

And as far as sharing a street corner with her opponent goes?

"It's democracy in action," Grigoraitis said. "It's an open seat. I think it's great for residents to have a choice and an opportunity a chance. It's what makes local politics interesting."

The election is Tuesday, Nov. 5. Subscribe to Patch for free for more previews and live updates.

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