CarolGloff
Natick Board of Selectmen
Results

Natick, the town we're all so fortunate to call home, is going strong. While the recent recession has been very difficult for many of us, I am grateful and proud that during these tough times, Natick has been able to continue to provide the services our citizens depend on, and we're now moving ahead with fiscal strength and vitality. Not many towns or cities across the Commonwealth -- or the nation -- can say this. It is a real point of pride that my work on the Board of Selectmen has helped make this happen.

During my six years on the Board of Selectmen, I have contributed to many activities and projects, resulting in a wide variety of accomplishments. A sampling of my contributions and accomplishments, including a few items from my pre-Selectman days, are listed below. Committees and groups of which I have been a member are listed at the end of this page.

I thank the voters of Natick for giving me the opportunity to serve on the Board of Selectmen for the past six years, and ask for your vote on March 29 so that I may continue to serve for the next three years.

Carol
 
Result: Making every penny count.
  • Carol has a proven record of making Natick run better and more efficiently – that means money saved. Carol has led on issue after issue that’s saved the town money. From adopting Medicare for retirees, to insisting that potential money-saving proposals be evaluated, to renegotiating the town’s incineration contract with Millbury, Carol does more than talk about saving taxpayer money. She does it.
Result: Accountability. 
  • Carol promised to make town government more accountable, and she has. Carol’s vigilance has meant that problems with the Town’s accounting procedures are getting fixed. That 2007 election errors were publicly aired and addressed. Carol doesn’t just talk about accountability. She insists on it.
Result: Effective collaboration with the schools and funding of our school system.
  • Carol’s dad was a custodian who taught Carol the value of a dollar – and the value of education. As a scientist, consultant, and small business owner, Carol well understands what the future will demand of today’s students. That’s why Carol has worked to ensure much-needed funding for educating the children of Natick. And thanks to Carol, representatives of the Selectmen, School Committee, and Finance Committee meet regularly and openly to collaborate on budgetary issues. Carol does more than talk about education. She helps make it possible. 
Result: A town that just runs better.
  • Carol has used the extensive knowledge of Natick’s government she gained in 8 years on the Finance Committee and 6 years on the Board of Selectmen to make the town run better – just as promised. Working relationships with other communities, re-appointment of the Town Administrator, hiring of new Police and Fire Chiefs, tireless advocacy, effective housing and transportation plans, and more have laid the groundwork for a town that just gets better and better. Her work on the Charter and By-Law Review Committee resulted in necessary updates and added clarity to the laws that govern our town. Carol doesn’t wish for continuous improvement – she makes it happen.  

Result: Real listening, real communicating, and real defense of the values that unite us.
  • Carol promised to work for the whole community, long term, and she has a strong record of having done it. The selectmen’s office hours, town newsletter, and more were started under her watch. She leads the way in much that makes us all proudest of our community – seniors, schools, affordable housing. And when the mall wanted to call itself “Natick,” Carol started the petition that turned them around. Carol doesn’t just make promises about responsiveness and community. She really listens to citizens, keeps townspeople in the loop, and defends our community values.
Result: Making every penny count
  • Carol has a proven record of making Natick run better and more efficiently – that means money saved. Carol has led on issue after issue that have saved the town money – from adopting Medicare requirements for retirees, to insisting that potential money-saving proposals be evaluated, to renegotiating the town’s incineration contract with Millbury. Carol does more than talk about saving taxpayer money. She does it.
Under Carol’s leadership as a Selectman,
  • Natick saved money by negotiating new union contracts, saving the town over $1,000,000 in health insurance premiums. Even with the safety net funds set aside to protect employees from excessive costs under the new insurance plans, the town still saves at least $500,000.
  • Natick saved money by attaining an AAA bond rating, the highest possible. This allows us to pay lower interest rates when borrowing money for capital projects.
  • Natick saved money by joining the MetroWest Regional Transit Authority. Previously Natick paid well over $100,000 per year to the MBTA while also covering the cost of the Neighborhood Bus. After joining the MWRTA, part of our MBTA assessment stays right here, paying for our bus service.
  • Natick saved money by moving eligible Town retirees to Medicare, lowering taxpayer costs by over $600,000 per year while maintaining retiree benefits.
  • Natick is working to save money by instituting energy conservation efforts, resulting in an 11% decrease in energy use so far.
  • Natick saved money by using the Pay-As-You-Throw trash bag system, thus reducing tipping fees (Carol helped develop the program).
  • Natick saved money by prompt re-negotiation of its contract with the Millbury incineration plant for taxpayers’ trash, saving at least $200,000 per year.
  • Natick considered an automated trash pick-up proposal but concluded that the costs and potential difficulties for many residents outweighed the benefits. Carol believes in using the simplest, most cost-effective approach to delivering services.
  • Beginning during her 8 years on the Natick Finance Committee and continuing today, Carol has studied Fire Department overtime, leading to better definition of the different uses of overtime and how it can be controlled better.
  • The recent Emergency Medical Services Study concluded that it is more cost-effective for the Town to continue to provide ambulance services with personnel who double as firefighters, rather than contracting these services out.
  • Natick saved money by purchasing less expensive binders and paper for records of warrants approved and paid. It’s a small amount, maybe $1,000 per year, but Carol looks at all levels of savings to help the taxpayers.
  • Carol insisted that the Town evaluate in detail a number of potential moneysaving opportunities put forth by a Selectmen-appointed committee. The result? A number of those proposals were implemented following recent contract negotiations, and others are undergoing comprehensive evaluation.
  • Carol strongly encouraged the Town Administration to explore opportunities for regionalization. Town personnel are now evaluating possibilities for regionalized dispatch, emergency planning, solid waste collection, health department activities, engineering, recycling, etc.
Result: Accountability. 
  • Carol promised to make town government more accountable, and she has. Carol’s vigilance has meant that problems with the Town’s accounting procedures are getting fixed. That 2007 election errors were publicly aired and addressed. Carol doesn’t just talk about accountability. She insists on it.
  • Studied problems uncovered by the annual financial audit, asked in-depth questions to understand the source of the problems and required changes to fix those problems and help guard against others.
  • Worked with the Town Counsel, Town Clerk and the Acting Town Administrator in resolving Town Meeting ballot errors for two precincts and gaining court approval for a new election in 2007.
  • Developed guidelines for management of the Walcott and Kennedy Trust Funds, which were left to the Town over 75 years ago to provide support for needy Natick residents. Appointed 5 members of Natick’s Clergy to the boards who oversee these funds. (Due to previous overspending of the Walcott Fund to help needy residents, monies must re-accumulate before further grants can be made. The Kennedy Trust Fund scholarships are now being awarded every year.)
  • As a member of the Financial Planning Committee (FPC) for 5 years, annually performs a comprehensive review of Town finances to ensure that the pir financial foundation and reporting are sound, and that residents receive accurate information.
  • Monitoring investigation of recently-discovered Medicare overpayments to the federal government. 
Result: Effective collaboration with the schools and funding of our school system.
  • Carol’s dad was a custodian who taught Carol the value of a dollar – and the value of education. As a scientist, consultant, and small business owner, Carol well understands what the future will demand of today’s students. That’s why Carol has worked to ensure much-needed funding for educating the children of Natick. And thanks to Carol, representatives of the Selectmen, School Committee, and Finance Committee meet regularly and openly to collaborate on budgetary issues. Carol does more than talk about education. She helps make it possible.
  • Voted to support replacement of Natick High School.
  • Supported essential increases in school budgets over the past 14 years.
  • Works closely with School Committee and Finance Committee representatives and school and town administration so that all needs of the community, both education and municipal services, have appropriate funding.
  • Supported funding to decrease school bus fees.
  • Actively supported successful campaign to pass debt exclusion funding for Wilson and Kennedy Middle Schools, including serving on Steering Committee of “Yes on 9” campaign.
  • Chair of Education Sub-Committee of Finance Committee for 4 years
  • Member Middle School Advisory Committee in 1999
  • Financial supporter and member of Natick Education Foundation
Result: A town that just runs better.
  • Carol has used the extensive knowledge of Natick’s government she gained in 8 years on the Finance Committee and 6 years on the Board of Selectmen to make the town run better – just as promised. Working relationships with other communities, re-appointment of the Town Administrator, hiring of new Police and Fire Chiefs, tireless advocacy, effective housing and transportation plans, and more have laid the groundwork for a town that just gets better and better. Her work on the Charter and By-Law Review Committee resulted in necessary updates and added clarity to the laws that govern our town. Carol doesn’t wish for continuous improvement – she makes it happen.
  • Chaired the Charter and By-Law Review Committee’s comprehensive review of our charter and by-laws; coordinated input from committee members, the Town Administrator, Town Counsel, citizens, and Town committees, boards, and department heads. This 2-year project resulted in major revisions to a number of charter and by-law sections, bringing them into compliance with Massachusetts General Law and making them easier to understand and consistent.
  • Initiated review of Selectmen’s policies; some of these should be eliminated as they are obsolete, while others need major revisions.
  • Developed and implemented guidelines for ambulance billing procedures and past due accounts, ensuring the well-managed delivery of life support services while making certain that fees charged to residents are limited to $100.
  • Supported efforts to balance Natick’s Public School and general government needs, while continuing to deliver high quality services to the entire Town.
  • Hired the current Town Administrator and facilitated successful transition to new management in 2007; voted to re-appoint the Town Administrator after a comprehensive evaluation/review process in 2010.
  • Hired a new Police Chief after an extensive public and individual interview process and Screening Committee evaluation.
  • Hired a new Fire Chief after an extensive public and individual interview process while following the requirements of Civil Service.
  • Promoted innovative strategies to address downtown parking limitations, in order to enhance the vitality of Natick Center for business and residents.
  • Directed the Town Administrator to prepare a 5-year capital plan as required by the Town Charter
  • Helped to update the Morse Institute Library Long-range Plan in 2000 and 2005 as the Selectmen’s representative, with a goal toward delivering enhanced library services.
  • Through the Natick 360 process, worked with other town boards and residents ensuring progress and collaboration on strategic initiatives.
  • Established working relationships with representatives of other communities through Leadership MetroWest and the 495/Metrowest Partnership.
  • Maintained strong working relationships with our State and Congressional legislative delegation
  • Worked with Mass Office of Economic Development, Mass Executive Office of Transportation, Congressman Markey and Senator Kerry, to secure funding to improve critical traffic bottlenecks.
Result: Real listening, real communicating, and real defense of the values that unite us.
  • Carol promised to work for the whole community, long term, and she has a strong record of having done it. The selectmen’s office hours, town newsletter, and more were started under her watch. She leads the way in much that makes us all proudest of our community – seniors, schools, affordable housing. And when the mall wanted to call itself “Natick,” Carol started the petition that turned them around. Carol doesn’t just make promises about responsiveness and community. She really listens to citizens, keeps townspeople in the loop, and defends our community values.
  • Established regular one-on-one time between Selectmen and citizens with monthly Selectmen’s office hours at Town Hall and the Senior Center.
  • Supported improved town communications, including the Town Administrator’s quarterly newsletter, the town website, and statements on major town issues.
  • Initiated petition that convinced the Natick Mall management not to rename itself “Natick”
  • Fostered a climate of courtesy, respect, and efficiency as Chair of the Board of Selectmen.
  • Supported building a new senior/community center.
  • Helping Natick control future residential development and provide affordable housing choices for the community by representing the Selectmen on the Community Development Advisory Committee. Finalized the Natick Housing Plan, increasing the Town’s leverage with 40B developers and keeping more affordable housing in Natick.
  • Led the effort to establish the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, channeling private funding and grants to develop affordable housing in Natick; currently serve as the Selectmen’s representative on this board. Helped individuals and families purchase affordable housing units by establishing down payment assistance program.
  • Worked with DHCD to ensure certification of Natick’s affordable housing units in accordance with the Natick Housing Plan and to protect Natick from hostile 40B developments.
  • Ensured high standards for affordable housing provided by the developers of the Natick Mall.
  • Led the initiative to give preference for affordable housing units to Natick residents, their families, and Town employees.
  • Support library programs and materials for users of all ages by volunteering at Friends of Morse Institute book sales.
  • As a Medical Reserve Corps member, assisted with distribution of flood clean-up supplies, volunteered at shelter in another town after major ice storm, and help at flu shot clinics every fall.
Carol’s Background
  • Natick Board of Selectmen, 2005-2011; Chair 2007-2008
  • Natick Finance Committee, 1997-2005
    • Finance Committee Vice Chair (1 year)
    • Finance Committee Secretary (3 years)
    • Education Sub Committee Chair (4 years)
    • General Government Sub Committee Chair (3 years)
    • Personnel & Benefits Sub Committee Chair (3 years)
    • Budget Planning Sub Committee Member (4 years)
    • Public Works Sub Committee Member (2 years)
    • Public Safety Sub Committee Member (4 years)
  • Charter and By-Law Review Committee Chair, 2008-2010
  • Financial Planning Committee, 2006-current
  • Facilities Consolidation Study Committee, current
  • Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board, current
  • Community Development Advisory Committee, Chair, 2005-current
  • Natick Medical Reserve Corps, current
  • 495/Metrowest Partnership Board, current
  • Metrowest Meds Advisory Committee, current (Metrowest Meds helps income-eligible individuals and families access required prescription medications for free or at low prices)
  • Fire Services Study Committee, 2004-2005
  • Library Long-range Planning Committee, 2000, 2005
  • Town Meeting Member (4 years) • Recycling Advisory Committee (2 years)
  • Middle School Advisory Committee (1999) (Committee evaluated need for replacement/renovation of Wilson Middle School and updates to Kennedy Middle School)
  • Pay-as-You-Throw Task Force (2 years)
  • Natick Education Foundation, current
  • Friends of the Morse Institute Library (16 years, current)
  • League of Women Voters (18+ years, 6 years in Natick, current)
  • Natick Visiting Nurses Association Trustee (3 years)
  • “Yes on 9” Campaign Steering Committee, 2000
  • Graduate of Natick Citizens Police Academy
  • Graduate of MetroWest Leadership Academy
Committee to Elect Carol Gloff, c/o Marjorie Gove, 12 Durant Road Natick MA 01760
 
This page was last updated 27 February 2011