Robb Stewart Running For Ward 3 Alderman

The following was submitted by Robb Stewart:

My name is Robb Stewart and I’m proud to announce my candidacy for the Ward 3 Alderman position. Melrose has been my home for nearly 30 years, and I look forward to serving this vibrant community. As a family man and father of an eleven-year old, I see great opportunities for our city and want to focus my energies on steering the course for the future.

I chose to move into Melrose shortly after college because of the great location, accessible downtown, and small-town atmosphere. The evolution of Melrose from a “hidden gem” to one of the most desired places to live in the greater Boston area has been a great event to witness. With this growth, there are challenges that the city continues to face, including increasing demands on the school system, aging infrastructure, traffic safety and appropriate housing development.

I have a keen interest in representing the community for important issues that will come to light in the coming year. A portion of my energies will be devoted to encouraging continued local economic development, pressing for fiscal responsibility and accountability to the town budget and tax override, and determining best use of the Beebe School while advocating for neighborhood K-5 elementary schools.

I’ve enjoyed volunteering to make this community a better place to live. My wife Trish and I have both been active within the school system and we have volunteered at many PTO events over the years. I am most proud of my work building and running an after-school chess program for Lincoln School children that was well received by the parents and wildly popular with the children.

Professionally, I’ve been a sales executive for the past 15 years focused on technology services. My career has given me the skills required to be an effective alderman, including leadership, strong listening skills, summarizing diverse issues, finding common ground in negotiations, mastering complex financial and budgetary arrangements, and providing clear communications.

I’m seeking the Ward 3 Alderman position to make a difference in the community. Fresh ideas, initiative and passion are qualities I will contribute to the Board of Aldermen (soon to be City Council), as well as the commitment to work diligently on difficult issues. I pledge to be transparent, to communicate clearly and frequently, be accessible and represent the interests of the people of Ward 3.

Over the next several months, I will be visiting with my Ward 3 neighbors, hearing ideas and concerns about Melrose, and sharing my thoughts about how we can continue to improve our city.

I look forward to these conversations and I ask for your vote in November to be your Ward 3 Alderman.

Robb Stewart for Ward 3 Alderman.