Winthrop Town Council President Jim Letterie has pulled his nomination papers for the position in the Nov. 4, 2025 town election.
Letterie released the following statement:
“I have had the unbelievable honor of being able to represent the citizens of Winthrop as a Town Councilor for the past 20 years, and as the Council President the past 4 years. There is still work that needs to be done, and I strongly believe that proven leadership, experience, and a track record of being able to get things done are more important now than ever. Experience alone doesn’t always reflect impact—it can simply mean someone has held a position for a long time without notable results. Over the past 20 years, I’ve focused on making a meaningful difference. I secured funding for over 400 Chromebooks for Winthrop Public Schools and played a key role in the Middle/High School Building Project, as well as serving as Co-Chair of the Miller Field Committee.
I led efforts to revitalize blighted properties through receivership, returning them to productive use and back on the tax rolls. I also developed a free cash policy that significantly increased our Capital, General, and Building Stabilization Accounts. This fiscal strength improved our bond rating, ultimately saving the town over $8 million in interest on the Middle/High School borrowing. Most recently, and one of my proudest accomplishments, was being a leader in spearheading the Fire Station project.
The new fire station will be the first built in our town in over 120 years, completing a 35-year endeavor and representing a major win for our community—especially for our seniors and the dedicated first responders who serve us every day. Additionally, helping to secure increased school funding this past April will allow us to maintain low class sizes, support student success, and preserve the important progress we’ve made in education.
There is still important work ahead. Completing the TIP project on Revere Street remains a priority, and I am committed to ensuring it is done with sensitivity to the traffic, parking challenges, and disruptions it has caused. I remain focused on keeping the new Fire Station project on schedule and fulfilling my commitment to stay on or below budget. I also plan to lead a long-overdue initiative to construct new locker rooms at the rink and modernize its facilities—funded entirely through the Rink Enterprise Fund. In addition, securing appropriate space for our Parks and Recreation Department is essential, and I will continue to advocate for a solution that meets the community’s needs.
Winthrop needs fiscally responsible, hands-on leadership from someone who understands the challenges of our dense population—and the potential consequences of increasing that density further. Serving as Town Council President and as a member of the School Committee requires a full-time commitment—one I have embraced with passion, energy, and unwavering dedication. I love this town deeply and believe it’s an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family.
Over the past 20 years, I’ve gained a deep and practical understanding of Winthrop’s municipal and school budgets. I’ve been actively involved in the Finance Committee and Finance Commission since their inception, contributing meaningfully to our financial planning and oversight. This experience has shown me that leading effectively requires not just financial knowledge, but also the time and commitment to manage the complexities of local governance.
I’m seeking another term as Council President because I remain committed to protecting the integrity and character of our beautiful seaside community. This role demands both expertise and dedication, and I’m prepared to continue investing the time and effort needed to help Winthrop thrive—now and for future generations.