By Max Bowen-max.bowen@northstarreporter.com
The second iteration of the Town Council were sworn in at Town Hall, and plans are in mind for North Attleborough’s future.
The nine members took their oaths on June 30 at Town Hall. Town Councilors Justin Pare, John Simmons, Joann Cathcart, Kathleen Prescott, Darius Gregory, and Andrew Shanahan were re-elected to a second term. New members Andrea Slobogan, Mark Gould Jr., and Patrick Reynolds all won seats in the recent Town Election.
Gould said it was exciting to be a part of the second Town Council, that he was surrounded by giants and hopes to contribute. He wants to build on the town’s financial strength and improve access for residents, along with community involvement.
“I hope that people feel free to come to any of the council meetings and call us with any of your concerns,” he said.
Reynolds has worked in Town Hall before as a former member of the Board of Selectmen. He said that much has changed with regard to the structure of the town government and he’s excited to work with it. When he was a selectman, he said the focus was on what needed to be cut from the budget. Now, the town is in a strong financial position and can look to improve.
“We’re figuring out how to spend in the most effective, efficient way that preserves that money for the long term,” said Reynolds.
Town Councilor terms run for two years, and Reynolds said the focus needs to be on bringing the town out of COVID-19. He said that life is feeling more normal these days and wants to continue that progress.
Slobogan has had an active role in the downtown area and said that economic growth is a priority. One of her goals is to build more awareness of the town and attract more businesses.
“Making it (the town) easy to work with, being accessible,” said Slobogan. “So, be there for them when they come and ask questions.”
Pare, the new Town Council President, said monumental decisions lay ahead for the community, such as the future of the schools and new developments. He added that North Attleborough is in a good place with strong finances and a good capital infrastructure.
“All that stuff is going to be executed and we’re going to expand in the next couple of years,” said Pare. “It’s very exciting.”
Pare said that as council president his role is to empower the other members and if need be, step aside and let them work.
“If I can help you, I’ll help you,” he said. “I want you to have the opportunity to bring your ideas forward.”
