Natick 2020 Election Profile: Michael Hickey For Selectman

NATICK, MA — The 2020 Natick town election is going to be pretty friendly since there are no contested races. But that doesn't mean the election is going to be boring.

There are a number of important seats up for election this year, including on the Board of Selectmen, School Committee, Board of Health, and Town Meeting members. And the candidates running have important things to say about why they're either trying to keep their seat, or why they're seeking elected office.

Before coronavirus hit, Patch reached out to Natick candidates and asked them to fill out questionnaires about why they're running. We will be publishing these periodically before Election Day on June 30.

Michael Hickey

Age (as of Election Day): 46
Family: Wife (Lisa), Son (James, 19) and Daughter (Katie, 16)
Education: University of Vermont - BA, Political Science (1995); Boston College Law School, JD (2002)
Occupation: Commercial Real Estate Attorney, 18 years in practice
Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office: Natick Board of Selectmen 2017 to present; Natick Zoning Board of Appeals (Appointed), 2006 to 2013 and 2015 to 2017
Campaign website: MikeHickey.org

Why are you seeking elective office?

I am seeking re-election to the Natick Board of Selectmen. Three years ago, I was honored to be elected to my first term. I ran on a message of “balance” - no agenda, just a commitment to do my homework and approach each decision based on one question: What’s in the best interest of the Town, as a whole?

A little over a year ago, I was honored again by my colleagues to serve as Chair. I never dreamed my time as chair would be marked by a devastating fire that hit our cherished downtown merchants so hard. But we all marveled at their courage and spirit - and witnessed their amazing resiliency and strength as they came back stronger. I also never dreamed that it would be marked by a worldwide pandemic. These past few months have been very difficult for so many people, but it's also been an inspiring time to again see the strength and sense of community here in Natick - from our amazing and dedicated Town employees working tirelessly, to our determined merchants, to our residents looking out for each other. I know we, as a community, still have tough days ahead, but that we’ll come out of this together and, once again, stronger.

In my first term, the Board — working with other elected and appointed leaders, town volunteers, our business community, and residents from all corners of the community — made great strides on so many fronts - on things like the quality of our roads, open space, a vibrant and active downtown, public safety and infrastructure improvements, attracting and retaining great people, and keeping Natick a welcoming place for all to live, work and play. The COVID crisis certainly consumed a lot of time and energy over the past few months, and will continue to impact us for some time. But, we're working to confront the issues in front of us, while not losing sight of the important work we need to keep doing on behalf of Natick residents and businesses. I’m looking forward to continuing to do that work - and to serve the Town of Natick as best as I can. I'll continue to listen to all voices, to be accessible, to be open to new ideas, and to work collaboratively towards consensus decisions made with the best interests of the Town as a whole in mind. I believe I've earned the trust of Natick residents and I hope I've earned their support for my re-election.

The last 3 years have been an amazing experience and privilege. I’ve made lifelong friendships, met amazing people, served with dedicated and talented Board colleagues and other volunteers, helped with countless neighborhood issues, and been humbled each day by the opportunity to serve the great people of this community. I would like to thank Natick voters for giving me that opportunity, and I would respectfully ask for their support once again. I look forward to continuing to work hard for this wonderful Town!

The single most pressing issue facing our town is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

As a Board, it's continuing to confront the unforeseen and challenging circumstances created by the COVID-19 crisis - working together with Town employees and volunteers, listening to our residents, staying informed and educated, and making decisions - many of which have been and will continue to be difficult ones. As a community it's important that we continue to care for and look out for each other - to check on family, neighbors and friends. We need to come together and support each other, particularly in the wake of such painful and tragic events that have impacted all of us in some way.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

Aside from my accomplishments during my first term, I served the Town of Natick for approximately 10 years as an appointed member of the Zoning Board of Appeals, including 3 years as Chair. While in college, I was an intern for a U.S. Senator, and after college (prior to law school), I served in both the executive and legislative branches of state government. In those capacities, I developed a passion for public service and for constituent service. I believe my extensive experience in state and local government — as well as my professional experience on matters involving public utilities, land use, zoning, and economic development — prepared me to serve as a member of the Natick Board of Selectmen.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Just after starting my first full-time job after college — as a Constituent Service Aide in the Governor's Office — someone told me to always keep in mind that the person on the other end of the phone may be reaching out to their government for the first time. The impression we make with that person is critical to how they perceive their government. Were they treated with respect? Did we listen? Did we help? Did we follow up? Will they be left with a good impression? The answers to these sorts of questions impact whether that person stays engaged — and calls a second time. I never forgot that. Also, my grandfather always used to say "There are three sides to every story — yours, mine, and the truth." I always took that to mean that it's important to keep in mind the perspective of others, to keep an open mind, to listen, etc.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I love to be out in the community and to talk with people. I learn so much just by doing that, and it's great fun for me. So, social distancing has been - and continues to be — quite an adjustment for me. I know I'm not alone in that regard! But, I welcome the opportunity to stay in touch and hear from people — particularly now. I'm easy to reach by email, phone, etc. And I'm here to help in any way I can.

More on the Natick 2020 election:

• 2020 Natick Election Profile: Shai Fuxman For School Committee
• No Contested Races In Natick 2020 Town Election