“Voters hear contrasting priorities on taxes, traffic, and town leadership“
Three of the four candidates running for a Select Board seat participated in a public forum hosted by Reading Recap on March 26th, offering residents an opportunity to hear their views on key town issues ahead of the April 7th municipal election.
Incumbent Carlo Bacci, along with challengers Sal Bramante and Tony D’Arezzo, addressed topics ranging from town finances and development to governance, infrastructure, and public conduct. A fourth candidate, Karen Herrick, declined invitations to attend the forum.
The event, moderated by longtime Reading resident, Finance Committee and Town Meeting member Marianne Downing, focused on the powers and responsibilities of the Select Board under the town’s Home Rule Charter, as well as ongoing and emerging community concerns. Resident Marcel Dubois was the timekeeper.
Candidate Backgrounds
Bacci is seeking a third term on the Select Board and highlighted his six years of experience on the board, including service during the COVID‑19 pandemic. A longtime Reading resident and business owner, Bacci cited fiscal restraint, infrastructure negotiations, and support for local businesses as key accomplishments. He pointed to efforts to keep water and sewer rates low, opposition to downtown parking kiosks, and work renegotiating the town’s trash contract.
Bramante, a lifelong Reading resident and Reading Memorial High School graduate, emphasized his professional background as director of operations for a large Boston‑based company. Currently serving on the Board of Health and as a Town Meeting member, Bramante described himself as results‑driven and focused on cost control, multigenerational needs, and affordability for seniors.
D’Arezzo, also a Town Meeting member, said his 23 years of experience in corporate operations informed his approach to decision‑making and conflict resolution. He stressed the importance of data‑driven governance, collaboration, and restoring a professional tone to Select Board deliberations.
Budget Pressures and a Potential Override
Much of the discussion centered on the town’s finances, including the likelihood of a future operating override. All three candidates acknowledged that long‑term budget pressures will require difficult choices.
Bacci noted that the town has relied heavily on free cash in recent years and said future planning must balance fiscal responsibility with maintaining services. He cautioned against committing to new local taxes and said residents are already facing significant financial strain.
Bramante said an override appears inevitable but stressed the need for careful cost review before asking residents for additional support. Drawing on his private‑sector experience, he emphasized contract negotiations and regional cooperation as potential cost‑saving measures.
D’Arezzo argued that any override amount should be structured to provide stability for multiple years, rather than forcing the town back to voters repeatedly. He also urged long‑term planning to increase the tax base through economic development and housing options.
Development, Traffic, and Infrastructure
Candidates also discussed the proposed redesign of Walkers Brook Drive, particularly in light of a recently announced Trader Joe’s planned for the area.
Bramante said reducing the roadway to one lane in each direction would pose safety risks given increased traffic volumes and opposed the proposal in its current form.
D’Arezzo called for updated traffic studies reflecting current and future development, while expressing support for improved pedestrian safety and sidewalks.
Bacci said the corridor must be reevaluated with Trader Joe’s factored into planning but noted that similar road redesigns have worked elsewhere in town when implemented thoughtfully.
Governance and Board Conduct
A recurring theme throughout the forum was concern over the tone and tension of recent Select Board meetings.
D’Arezzo emphasized leading by example, separating people from ideas, and acknowledging mistakes. Bramante said he would focus on collaboration and avoiding “sides,” describing himself as calm and pragmatic.
Bacci acknowledged public frustration with board dynamics, saying the situation has become embarrassing at times. He emphasized respect, accountability, and experience as keys to restoring public trust.
Public Comment and Community Engagement
Candidates offered differing perspectives on how public comment should be handled. Bramante favored returning to a structured public comment period at the start of meetings. D’Arezzo supported allowing public input after presentations so residents can ask informed questions. Bacci said public engagement is essential but must be balanced with respectful discourse and time management.
Fourth Candidate Not in Attendance
Select Board candidate Karen Herrick did not participate in the forum, having declined invitations to attend. Her absence was noted during the discussion, and the moderator indicated she would have been welcome to share her perspectives alongside the other candidates.
Looking Ahead to Election Day
The Reading municipal election will be held Tuesday, April 7, with early voting available at Town Hall in the days leading up to Election Day. The forum marked one of the final opportunities for voters to compare candidates side by side before casting their ballots.
