On the Issues

Why I’m running

Over the past 8–10 months, I developed a strong interest in getting more involved in our town. I began by speaking with several town officials, who shared valuable insights about how our local government works. I explored opportunities to serve on committees, and through that process, ultimately decided to run for Select Board.

Along the way, I’ve had many conversations with residents, town officials, and longtime connections. Having lived in Wilmington for nearly 20 years, my family and I have built deep roots here. My sons have been involved in Soccer, Hockey, Boy Scouts, and other community activities — and through those experiences, we’ve formed lasting friendships with so many families in town. I also spoke with many neighbors before making this decision, and it was not one I took lightly.

Professionally, I am an IT professional and a quick learner, and I’ve served in community organizations in roles including Secretary, Vice President, and President. Drawing on those experiences, along with insights from how other communities run effective campaigns, I’ve built a thoughtful and focused campaign here in Wilmington.

That background has shaped how I approach problems: I look for clear information, weigh the tradeoffs, and favor decisions grounded in data and sound analysis—not slogans alone. On the Select Board, I will bring that same disciplined, data-driven mindset, while always weighing what residents are experiencing in their neighborhoods.

I don’t pretend to be an expert on every issue—what matters is a willingness to listen. I will hear residents out, be an independent voice, and aim to serve in the best interest of our town.

The sections below go into more detail on where I stand on the issues that affect life in Wilmington.

If you see me around town, please say hello—I’d be glad to hear what’s on your mind.

Support for seniors

Pressure on seniors and taxpayers

Wilmington is facing the same pressures as many towns across Massachusetts—rising costs, limited housing options for seniors, and the need to protect taxpayers.

Right now, one of our biggest challenges is that many longtime residents—especially seniors—don’t have enough downsizing options in town. That puts pressure on families, limits housing turnover, and contributes to rising home prices.

Housing options that fit our town

Other towns are addressing this by encouraging age-restricted and smaller-scale housing that allows seniors to stay in the community without significantly increasing costs for services like schools. I believe Wilmington should take a similar approach—focusing on housing that meets real needs while protecting our budget.

Growth, partnerships, and the budget

At the same time, we have to be mindful of our financial situation. With increasing budget pressures, we need to prioritize responsible growth that expands the tax base without overburdening infrastructure or taxpayers. That means working in partnership with private developers where appropriate, rather than relying on taxpayer-funded projects.

Aging in place

Balance for the long term

Ultimately, it comes down to balance. We need to support our seniors, manage growth responsibly, and make decisions that keep Wilmington affordable for everyone—not just today, but for the future.

Local economy

Growing Wilmington’s commercial base helps diversify municipal revenue and can ease the property-tax burden on residents when businesses carry a larger share of the levy. Strong local businesses also strengthen our neighborhoods.

I will work to promote Wilmington as a place where small businesses can succeed and where new opportunities are pursued responsibly so they benefit residents, not just developers.

For a comparison of commercial tax revenue among nearby towns, what it means for Wilmington, and practical steps to bring more business into town, see Commercial tax revenue comparison (local towns).

Schools & families

Wilmington’s schools are central to families’ lives and to our town’s future. I support investing in education and family-serving services so children have what they need to learn and working families have practical support.

Facilities and long-term investment

Compared to many neighboring communities, some of our school facilities are aging. Addressing this has been a long-standing need, and at some point, we will need to make thoughtful decisions about renovation or rebuilding. Investments in our schools are also investments in Wilmington as a whole—they strengthen our community, support property values, and contribute to the town’s overall standing.

Planning with neighbors in mind

As part of any proposed project, factors like traffic and neighborhood impact will be carefully studied, and adjustments will be made to ensure the plan works for residents as well as students.

Responsible growth

Growth should protect what people love about Wilmington: our neighborhoods, open space, and small-town character. I will support thoughtful planning that upgrades infrastructure alongside development and keeps residents informed and heard.

Why Wilmington's character matters to me

I grew up in a small town in India, and I’ve always valued the sense of community and small-town character that comes with that environment. When I worked in Cambridge, I appreciated the city’s energy, but I chose to live in Wilmington because of its natural beauty, open space, and close-knit feel. That character matters to me.

Respecting what voters decided

I respect the decision Wilmington voters made on the MBTA Communities mandate. That vote reflected real concerns about preserving the town’s identity, managing growth responsibly, and protecting neighborhoods. Those concerns deserve to be taken seriously.

Legal and financial context

At the same time, the town also has to consider the broader legal and financial realities, including the potential loss of state grant funding and the ongoing legal action involving communities that have not adopted compliant zoning. Wilmington is part of a small group of communities now facing possible enforcement.

For a longer reference on the law, how towns compare, recent court actions, and how I think about moving forward, see MBTA Communities Act — what Wilmington residents need to know.

How we should move forward

My view is that Wilmington should move forward carefully and thoughtfully, with full respect for the town’s vote and with a focus on protecting the character of the community while understanding the legal and financial risks in front of us.

Coming from a small town, I want to keep Wilmington’s small-town feeling. I oppose the MBTA Communities law as a one-size-fits-all mandate on cities and towns. I do not believe it treats every community fairly, and I respect Wilmington voters for rejecting compliance. Still, given where the courts and enforcement stand, I believe we need to focus seriously on how to comply in a way that preserves what we value, rather than assuming the requirement will simply go away.

We should also be realistic: a great deal of “compliance” can end up on paper—zoning changes adopted to satisfy the mandate—while actual building and neighborhood change move slowly or barely at all. In many cases, there may not be much visible progress for a long time.

Transparent, accountable government

Residents deserve clear information and real input before big decisions. I am committed to transparent decision-making, responsible budgeting, and long-term planning so town government earns trust and delivers value.