Meet Allison Staton, Candidate For Dedham Board Of Health

A letter to the editor from Board of Health candidate Allison Staton:

The Board of Health sets broad policy goals and regulations, dealing with everything from restaurant safety to waste disposal to the environment. These functions complement and support the public health nurse and inspectors employed by the town. I believe my public policy skills and background will add a fresh perspective to the Board of Health and complement the work of the health professionals already on the board. Everyone who lives, works in or visits Dedham should have the opportunity to be healthy and this is why I am running.

If elected, my priorities will focus on several pressing issues facing our town. First, young and older teens continue to vape at ever increasing numbers. This problem is difficult to tackle because teens are influenced by social media and not by traditional media. I would partner with schools, youth organizations and young people to create educational programs tailored to today’s teens and their families. Second, the Board should work toward ensuring a healthy quality of life for Dedham’s aging population. Seniors should not suffer in isolation and I will work with the Council on Aging and Livable Dedham to support and engage them. Third, small businesses and restaurants are the economic engines in our town and should have a better understanding of what is expected of them so they can be successful. I will work with the Health Department to create a "punch list" to help local businesses better understand the process and improve its efficiency. Finally, I would ensure the Board fully supports and promotes the town’s Drug and Alcohol Task Force. Addiction continues to be a public health crisis nationally as well as locally, and we must come together to support not only those who are struggling but also their families.

My husband and I moved to Dedham in 2001 to raise our family in this vibrant and caring town. I’ve been a Town Meeting member since 2011 and wish to give more back. I have a Master’s degree from the Harvard School of Public Health and ran a statewide campaign in Massachusetts to improve access to oral healthcare as well as a campaign to expand children’s healthcare that became the model for the Federal Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). I have the understanding of what it takes to make policy a reality.

Please vote for me for Board of Health on April 13th. Thank you.