Special to the Transcript
Town Council candidate Kurt Millar is seeking election for Precinct 2. The following is his announcement:
“My name is Kurt Millar and I am honored to announce my candidacy for the Winthrop Town Council in Precinct 2. My family and I have been proud residents, graduates of Winthrop Public Schools, business owners, and actively involved citizens in Winthrop for multiple generations. I would love to see current and future generations of Winthrop families – as well as those who are choosing to move into town – live, work and stay in Winthrop.
Over the years, I have established a history of silently supporting Winthrop and its citizens by donating my time, services, and financial contributions to town-wide events, local charities, and fundraisers for those in need. Doing this has given me invaluable insight into how giving and supportive Winthrop residents can be towards one another. I take pride in helping when and where I am able.
I have been employed by Gillette in South Boston for over 16 years, where I manage a 7 million dollar budget. I have valuable experience as a Health Safety and Environment Leader, Preventative Maintenance Leader and currently a Manager of Inventory Logistics. My background in sustainability programs, OSHA Regulations, planned and preventative maintenance, managing budgets, loss elimination, cost savings analysis, and employee development and training will be an asset as your Councilor.
I will utilize my skill set and experience to move Winthrop forward successfully as a servant leader for our residents. It is the Town Councilors’ responsibility to listen to and hear all voices both in and outside of their precincts. Members of the Council must vote the will of their constituents. They should not vote for their individual desires, and must make choices that benefit the greater good. This type of servant leadership ensures our actions as a Council benefit this town as a whole. I will work diligently for Precinct 2 and for the entire Town of Winthrop.
This is my second time as a candidate for Precinct 2. The outcome was not what I was hoping for in the previous election, and I promised I would continue to be involved. I have kept that promise. Currently, I am on the Board of License and was on two previous Charter and Ordinance Review Committees, where I gained additional experience that will benefit our town in my role as Councilor.
I am not afraid to question the status quo. When reviewing the town budget, I identify and research line items that have shown to be questionable, such as the ferry, municipal water use and the E.B Newton building. I listen to citizens of various political stances and enjoy hearing different viewpoints.
I have been an avid observer of Winthrop politics. We need change! This is why I am running for Town Council.
I want to lead the chance needed for our great town. I will strive to unify the council moving the town forward by ensuring the residents are heard. Transparency and sharing information are necessary for our citizens to be engaged and active. Residents need to trust the Council and our processes. Hearing constituents say the council is not realizing their decisions have consequences to each person they represent is concerning. Decisions affect our values, lifestyles, and our wallets. We must understand how and why we are in our current financial situation.
I will advocate for responsible growth to increase revenue while sustaining education and vital services budgets. We need to re-evaluate our contracts with the MWRA and MASSPORT. Winthrop faces unprecedented issues in the areas of finance, environmental resilience, failing infrastructure, traffic congestion and business sustainability. I have a keen sense for identifying cost savings and eliminating loss which will benefit all town departments.
I have concerns regarding ongoing maintenance town-wide. This must be addressed in all current assets and future planning. Having no conflicts of interest, such as not having a brick and mortar business in my name, I will not need to recuse myself from voting on certain motions.
I will be a positive addition to the Council. I will listen and work for you! If you are a constituent in Precinct 2, I look forward to earning your vote on November 7, 2023! Kurt Millar”