I’m running for re-election because I believe in North Attleborough—its people, its promise, and its future. When local government works the way it should—honestly, transparently, and in partnership with residents—there’s no challenge we can’t face together.
But that kind of leadership takes thoughtful planning, responsible decisions, and a real commitment to serving the public—not just managing optics. True leadership means leading on transparency, financial responsibility, and innovation.
A real leader encourages diverse opinions, values fresh ideas, and builds a culture of collaboration—welcoming meaningful public input as an essential part of democracy. Many in our community, including former RTM members, still care deeply and have valuable insights to offer.
We should enable remote participation in council and committee meetings so seniors, disabled residents, and working families can participate by phone or Zoom. Councilors who request an agenda item should be given the opportunity to present their ideas—without needing to file a citizens’ petition just to be heard. And we should not pursue policies that regulate elected officials’ social media presence. Efforts to do so have already stalled amid First Amendment free speech concerns. We should be encouraging community engagement—not stifling it.
The truth is, we face serious financial pressures. Yes, we have $10 million in reserves—but that won’t go far when we’re looking at millions for the Webster Mill cleanup, $175 million in pension and OPEB liabilities, $28 million for PFAS water treatment, and $20 million to restore the Ten Mile River, and a $30 million+ fire station on the horizon. Our roads are aging, schools need repairs, and we’ve been plugging $4 million budget gaps with free cash. Meanwhile, our schools need more teachers, our police need more officers, and next year’s budget already faces a $5 million shortfall, and public employees deserve cost of living increases.
But there’s hope—with smart planning, honest dialogue, and community-driven decisions, we can move forward. That’s why I’ve proposed a Public Property Capital Improvement Committee—to move beyond short-term fixes and give residents a voice in long-term priorities. I’ve also proposed an Appointments Committee, to ensure department heads’ and board members’ goals align with the community’s values. Our town government needs real checks and balances.
Like Jefferson Smith going to Washington, real leadership means doing what’s right—even when it’s not easy. I’ve worked to lead by example: leading the charge on removing the North TV paywall to improve access to government, launching an Audit Committee to increase fiscal oversight, and introducing smart rat traps to address public health concerns. These aren’t flashy steps—but they matter.
Leadership isn’t about parades or popularity. It’s about showing up, making tough decisions, encouraging debate, and keeping the process open to the people.
We can do better—and with the right leadership, we will.
I’m Mark Gould, and I respectfully ask for your vote to keep working for the North Attleborough we all believe in.
