THE SAUGUS ADVOCATE – FrIDAy, AprIl 17, 2026 Page 7 TOWN MEETING | FROM PAGE 5 potential to seek tax overrides that our residents can ill afford. Kristi Talagan: As a Town Meeting Member, my focus is on making responsible, informed decisions that balance the town’s immediate needs with long-term sustainability. I think one of the top priorities for Saugus is fiscal responsibility and budget oversight. We – The Town Meeting – play a critical role in approving budgets, so it’s very important that we carefully evaluate the spending in the town, ensure transparency, and make decisions that protect taxpayers while still supporting essential services like education and public safety. Next is public safety infrastructure. As proposals come before Town Meeting such as funding for additional public safety facilities we need to weigh both the cost and the long-term benefit to ensure residents across all precincts receive timely and effective emergency services. There is a significant and growing senior population in Saugus which directly impacts public safety, senior services, and property tax sensitivity (those on a fixed-income). About 28–29% of residents are age 60 2025, according to MA HEALTHY AGING COMMUNITY PROFILE/Saugus. Infrastructure and traffic management are also ongoing concerns. As members, we are responsible for reviewing and approving capital projects that directly impact road safety, traffic flow, and overall quality of life in Saugus. Finally, responsible economic development is critical. Whether it’s cannabis establishments or other commercial development, Town Meeting Members must ensure that zoning and licensing decisions align with community standards and provide real, measurable benefits to the town. Hiring a town planner is a must. Question Two: What do you consider the top priority for residents in your precinct as you prepare for the opening of the 2025 Town Meeting session? William E. Cross III: In my opinion the top priority for Precinct 8 is sidewalks. The sidewalks are in need of some of TLC. Arthur Grabowski: I represent residents in Precinct 8... the top priority as we see it is traffic congestion and over development in town. Multiunit apartment development has overtaxed our infrastructure....our zoning laws must be OPENING DAY | FROM PAGE 7 J& State Representative Donald Wong followed through on his ceremonial first pitch to the plate. • Reliable Mowing Service • Spring & Fall Cleanups • Mulch & Edging • Sod or Seed Lawns • Shrub Planting & Trimming • Water & Sewer Repairs Throwing out the first pitch for Saugus Softball is Saugus Little League Vice President Stephanie Strout. Eugene Decareau, who at 96 is considered the oldest living former Saugus Little League Coach, takes a stroll near home plate. Joe Pierotti, Jr. S LANDSCAPE & MASONRY CO. Masonry - Asphalt • Brick or Block Steps • Brick or Block Walls • Concrete or Brick Paver Patios & Walkways • Brick Re-Pointing • Asphalt Paving www.JandSlandscape-masonry.com • Senior Discount • Free Estimates • Licensed & Insured 617-389-1490 Designing and Constructing Ideas that are “Grounds for Success” Landscaping adhered to and variances must be curtailed....to maintain the quality of life that our residents have come to expect in their neighborhoods. Kristi Talagan: For Precinct 8, my role is to ensure that local concerns are clearly represented and addressed at the Town Meeting level. A priority is advocating for fair access to town resources, particularly when it comes to public safety coverage, infrastructure improvements, and town services. Decisions made at Town Meeting should reflect the needs of all precincts, including Precinct 8. Traffic and neighborhood safety are also important at the local level. I would prioritize supporting measures that improve roadway safety, reduce congestion near residential areas, and address concerns brought forward by residents. E-bike safety on the bike path is also a big concern and needs to be continuously monitored. Additionally, quality of life investments such as maintaining public spaces, supporting local initiatives, and ensuring thoughtful development are key to keeping Precinct 8 a desirable place to live. Question Three: Are you working independently or in collaboration with other members on articles to be introduced for this year’s Town Meeting? Could you please elaborate? Summarize your article and what you hope to accomplish. William E. Cross III: I am currently not working on anything or with anyone at this time. In closing there has been a lot of discussions around town concerning budgets. I have faith in Town Manager Scott Crabtree. He has led this town from the brink of receivership to a solid fiscal position. While I don’t think you can make everyone happy it is my hope we can listen to all sides and come to some common ground. Arthur Grabowski: Yes, several other town meeting memGerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? If Not, Please Call for a Free Consultation. 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 bers have approached me with articles that if adopted will make Saugus a better community...i.e. professional requirements for employment as our Town Manager, closure of the polluting ash pile at WIN... as well as developing rules and regulations to protect the health and well-being of the residents of Saugus. Kristi Talagan: Currently, I am not working on any articles to bring forth. Most importantly, I see my role as maintaining open communication with residents, bringing their concerns forward, and ensuring they understand how Town Meeting decisions impact them directly.
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