Letter to the editor: Kenneth Largess announces Select Board candidacy

To the editor:

My name is Kenneth Largess, and I am excited to announce my candidacy for the Wellesley Select Board. I would be grateful to have your support as I take this important step. I have lived in Wellesley for the past 15 years with my wife and three children. During this time, I have dedicated myself to serving our community through roles that deeply connect me to Wellesley’s people and priorities.

I come from a family that values public service and the important role it plays in a community. My father was a vice principal at Shrewsbury High School for over 30 years, and my mother was an elementary school teacher in Worcester. Their lifelong dedication to education instilled in me a deep respect for hard work, community engagement, and the critical role of public institutions in shaping strong, vibrant communities. This perspective has influenced both my professional life and my commitment to serving Wellesley.

As a member of Wellesley’s Advisory Committee, I have gained valuable experience reviewing the Town’s finances and making informed recommendations to Town Meeting members. Serving as the Advisory Committee’s liaison to the Select Board has deepened my understanding of the Board’s work and strengthened communication and collaboration between the two groups. This role has underscored the importance of having strong, independent leaders on the Board who bring diverse perspectives to the position.

Beyond my role in Town government, I have connected with many Wellesley families over the years by volunteering in our schools and coaching youth sports. I’ve coached more than 30 teams in various sports and currently serve as vice president and a board member of Wellesley Youth Football. While my kids attended Fiske Elementary, I also served on the School Council, focusing on school safety. These experiences have provided me with valuable insight into our community’s aspirations and challenges.

I am a corporate attorney at a Boston-based investment firm with extensive experience resolving complex financial and other issues while fostering common ground among parties with competing interests. Previously, I worked at an international law firm and an investment bank. I believe my professional experience, combined with my significant involvement in our Town’s government, community, and schools, equips me to address the multifaceted issues that come before the Select Board.

I am running for the Select Board because Wellesley is at a pivotal moment, facing complex issues related to housing, schools, financial management, Town-wide communication, and sustainability. These challenges will shape our Town’s future, and I am uniquely qualified to address them with a clear focus on what is best for Wellesley. Our Town will benefit from a new generation of leaders who bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions, while remaining committed to fiscal discipline to ensure that every dollar is carefully managed for maximum value to our residents.

I believe Wellesley can explore opportunities for property tax relief without compromising the quality of our schools, which are central to our community’s success and identity. By prioritizing efficiency in other areas of Town spending, we can ease the financial burden on taxpayers while continuing to invest in the outstanding education that defines Wellesley.

Our Town’s strength lies in bringing people together, balancing diverse perspectives, and implementing practical solutions that work for everyone. I am excited to bring my experience, energy, and dedication to the Select Board to help guide Wellesley through the opportunities and challenges ahead.

I would be honored to earn your vote on March 4, 2025. To learn more about my candidacy and vision for Wellesley, please visit my website at largess4sb.org. I encourage you to reach out to me directly at largess4sb@gmail.com with any questions or suggestions for Wellesley’s future.

Thank you for your support and consideration.

Sincerely,
Kenneth Largess