Hamilton Selectmen Candidate Profile - Robert McKean

Robert McKean - Candidate for Board of Selectmen

I grew up in Hamilton and pitched on Hamilton’s Detroit Tigers Farm Team. I also have happy memories of riding my bike, freewheelin’ down to Buker School and Patton Park for baseball games. We shopped downtown at Joe Govoni’s Grocery Store and frequented The Paper Store where I earned money delivering newspapers near my home. I moved back into town seventeen years ago and now live two doors down from the house where I grew up. I am now married and have three children; (14), (16) and (18). Hamilton has been important both in my own life and to the joys of my family.

Having served on the Planning Board for the past five years, I was elected Clerk by my fellow Members of the Board. I have been instrumental in supporting an initiative called “Site Plan Review” which will return development oversight to the Planning Board. I believe in Smart Growth initiatives to create financial opportunities while sustaining open space and protecting ourwater supply.

As a Real Estate Broker and local small business owner, I have experienced the damage being done to our town by high property taxes. Taxes are making it difficult for people to stay in Town and, just as importantly, scaring people away from moving here. My business background, with a Masters Degree from UCLA in Business Administration, will be helpful in steering us back on course. Our spending and our budget need to be in line with the size and scale of our Town. I am excited to hear of the prospects for a new “turf field” and project management classrooms, and hope these programs can be funded cost effectively.

From being a production assistant at Universal Studios to a financial analyst at CBS Network,I have developed a background in communications by working in the Film and Television industry in Los Angeles. I recognized Hamilton’s need for greater transparency and improved communications, and developed “Townline News”; a half hour cable television show to help address local issues. I have interviewed Brad Hill; our State Representative, Bruce Ramsey; our Town Moderator and Carry Rich; a pool professional, among others. Too many important policies are being set by “Special Town Meetings” where only 75 people are needed for a quorum. Cost effective measures such as increasing and broadcasting open meeting forums and improving our Town website need to be implemented to make sure everyone who has an interest, can participate.

If elected to the Board of Selectmen I will serve the Town to the best of my ability. I will listen to your concerns and work with you to find solutions. I look forward to serving your interests. Thank you for your time and consideration.