DePalo to run for re-election

Shrewsbury - Selectman Maurice DePalo has announced his candidacy for re-election in the Town Election to be held Tuesday May 6. DePalo, who is the current chair, will be seeking his sixth term on the Board of Selectmen.

"Our town has accomplished much during my time in office, but there is still important work to be done," DePalo said.

DePalo has maintained a consistent philosophy throughout his tenure.

"A selectman must represent the interests of all residents," he said. "I have had one unwavering goal: to make the best decisions I can for the benefit of the entire town. I am committed to working toward a fair and equitable allocation of town resources.

"I believe that the primary functions of local government are to provide education, public safety and infrastructure. However, I also believe that local government plays a significant role in providing many other services that represent our community, reflect our values and define who we are. As a selectman, I strive to balance the funding needs of all of these services in a tight fiscal environment."

DePalo identified the major challenges facing the town as the slowing growth of local and state revenues, the need for major water and sewer improvements, rising health insurance and pension costs, and pressures for increased school spending.

DePalo was raised in Shrewsbury and has owned and worked for local businesses for over 30 years. He currently works as a consultant, developing and implementing strategic plans for small retail businesses. His wife, Barbara, teaches in Shrewsbury Public Schools. He has two children, Paul and Danielle, who are graduates of Shrewsbury High School.

He served as co-chair of the Fiscal Study Committee and was a member of the High School/ Middle School Building Committee and the School Space Needs Committee. In addition, he is the current regional representative to the Central Mass. Metropolitan Planning Commission, which plans and allocates state and federal road funds.