By Joan F. Simoneau, Community Reporter
Marlborough – On Nov. 1 voters will decide which four of the eight Councilor-at-large candidates should represent the city. On Oct. 19 those candidates met for a debate sponsored by the Marlborough Regional Chamber of Commerce and WMCT-TV.
Incumbents Patricia Pope and Michael Ossing are being challenged by Paul Brodeur, Joseph Collins, Mark Evangelous, Aaron Ferrecchia, Mark Oram, and Katherine Robey. Three of the candidates previously held ward council seats – Brodeur in Ward 3, Evangelous in Ward 5 and Oram in Ward 6.
Pope said that she would continue to work with the various city departments and the Marlborough Economic Development Corporation to bring additional businesses and jobs to the city.
Job creation was also a concern for Brodeur who said he would market the city's outstanding assets to attract businesses.
Robey, a 16-year School Committee member, said as councilor she would, “ask questions, seek out answers and make a decision based on all the facts.”
Oram, the town of Ashland's Health Director, cited Marlborough's transportation system as an area that needed attention and he would seek out measures to improve it.
Evangelous said being a local business owner and lifelong resident demonstrates his business capabilities and interest in the city.
Ferrecchia, a local attorney, said that he can bring an independent youthful view to local government and would “treat the city as a client and make tough choices as needed.”
Collins, an accountant and former Marine, said he is against the “small town” approach to government and would put common sense first in making decisions affecting the city and its residents.
Ossing noted that as Finance Committee chair for the past several years, he has been “carefully watching all financial matters facing the city and would continue to do so.”
