Marlborough Councilor Tunnera On Why He Wants 6th Term

MARLBOROUGH, MA — The only contested Marlborough City Council race in 2021 is the contest for the Ward 4 seat.

Incumbent Robert Tunnera was first elected to the Ward 4 seat in a special 2010 election. He's won the seat in every election since, but has never faced a challenger — until this year. Newcomer Teona Brown has entered the race, giving Tunnera his first challenge since he defeated Steven Kerrigan in the 2010 special election.

Marlborough Patch sent both candidates a questionnaire to allow voters to get to know them and their positions. Here's what Tunnera had to say:

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background and why you decided to run in 2021?

My family moved to Marlborough back in 1968 when I was 2, Mom and Dad along with my two brothers and sister still reside in Marlborough(I always said we didn't want to move away from mom's cooking). My wife Lisa and I were just married in August and purchased a new home a week prior to our wedding(what stress?).

I ran for City Council back in 2010 when I was volunteering for the French Hill Neighborhood Association. At the time we were trying to grow awareness for our area due to the fact that the area had been compromised due to absentee ownership. I never had aspirations to run for office, but getting involved in a grassroots effort brought out a new interest in our city. I have been truly humbled by the support of the residents of Ward 4 for the past 11 years and I still get nervous before each meeting because I know how important the issues are to my constituents and the residents of Marlborough.

What's the biggest issue facing Ward 4 right now and what do you intend to do about it?

Right now we are faced with the possibility of a new Fire Station in a residential area on Bigelow Street. I understand both sides of the situation where a new Fire Station is an asset to the community but also understand if it were in your neighborhood, it would not be desirable to have the noise level and unsuitable infrastructure for large vehicles regularly traveling in that area. The residents in that area are opposed to it. Naturally, I support the residents of the area and will do everything I can to advocate for them. The question I would encourage both sides to think about is, "How would you feel if the new Fire Station was being built next door to your home?"

Ward 4 is the only contested Council seat in 2021, why do you think that is, and what's one way to get more people interested in participating in local politics?

I have been fortunate enough to be unopposed for the past 5 elections, however, I feel as though I have represented my constituents with honesty and integrity. I really care about my residents, their concerns, and the city and hope to continue doing so in the future, however, I do admire all those who run for public office and desire to help others as I do.

Similar to my situation, I would encourage people to get involved in small matters first and attend a City Council meeting or two to learn about what is going on in the city. There are also many volunteer opportunities within the City or even at your local Church to get started.

How will you work with either a new mayor or the incumbent to get things accomplished in 2022 and beyond?

Being approachable, leading with empathy, and willing to listen to a resident's concerns is something that I take pride in. I am always available for the people of my ward and the city. The Current Mayor and I have a good working relationship, I feel we have a lot of respect for each other and we are able to pick up the phone and have a conversation if needed. If I'm fortunate enough to get re-elected, I am confident I can work with the mayor for the good of the city.