Jack Eccles: The Right Choice for Melrose

As the November 5 th election grows closer, I am proud to support Jack Eccles for Alderman at Large. I have had the pleasure of knowing Jack for over a decade, and I have seen firsthand his dedication and love for our great city.

The roots of Jack’s devotion to Melrose can be traced back to his numerous roles and involvement
throughout the years. My favorite memory working alongside Jack is as co-student representatives to the school committee. In this role, Jack was able to grow as a listener, an envisioner, and a man of action. He collaborated with students and adults alike to address the need for a Fine Arts Director for the Melrose Public Schools system. In 2014, his echoing of student needs was achieved, and a Fine Arts Director was hired. It was astonishing to see that Jack, even as a teenager, had acknowledged the depth and ability that his role as a student advocate could hold.

Despite school not being in session throughout the summer months, Jack would still be found in city hall as an intern under Mayor Dolan’s administration. There he gained valuable insight on the multi-faceted needs of the Melrose community and brought those lesson along the way to college.

Jack and I followed one another to UMass Amherst. Even 100 miles away, Jack still managed to stay involved with the Melrose community. While a lot of college students watched Netflix, Jack watched the Alderman and School Committee meetings (I am not kidding, he really did). He actively participated in the 2 ½ override campaign, even driving home from Amherst on weekends, to show his support for the movement. Witnessing Jack’s passion for democracy cultivate from high school, to college, to now adulthood has been remarkable.

He continues to grow with each opportunity he seeks and I am confident that if given the shot to be our next Alderman at Large, he will rise to the occasion and make meaningful advances for Melrose. I am voting for Jack on November 5 th because he encourages and inspires me to be a better citizen for my city. Melrose would be lucky to have him representing us.

Amanda Sampson