Cathy Bilotta

Political platform statement

With a deep sense of responsibility and gratitude, I, Cathy Bilotta, seek to continue my service on the Manchester Select Board. A lifelong New Englander, I was drawn to Manchester’s charm, walkability, and natural beauty, becoming a full-time resident in 2017 after several years as a part-time resident.
Three years ago, I introduced myself as a retired Raytheon executive with 32 years of experience in information technology and strategic planning. I believed my expertise in managing large-scale projects, negotiating contracts, and improving efficiencies would benefit our Town. While those skills have been valuable, my first term revealed that my experience leading large operations was equally important. It’s where I honed my ability to listen, collaborate, ensure actions are completed and advocate for long-term planning.
During my tenure, I championed fiscal responsibility and strategic, integrated planning. I was a consistent advocate for a Facilities Master Plan and a long-term capital plan that encompasses all our projected major expenses. I partnered with our Town Administrator to drive changes to our annual budget process, improving our focus on these significant investments. We’re now in a better position to engage residents in thoughtful discussions on priorities, differentiating between essential needs and discretionary wants. I supported the Finance Committee’s efforts to reduce reserve funds held and apply unexpected savings towards reducing property taxes. I also partnered with the Harbormaster and Finance Committee to establish a self-funded Harbor Launch Service, demonstrating how new services can be provided without increasing taxes.
Recognizing that our Town’s success depends on its people, I pushed for transparent hiring processes to attract top talent for roles like Fire Chief and Town Administrator. I also drove policy changes to publicly post openings on volunteer committees, welcoming new members and fresh perspectives. These efforts have diversified our committees, ensuring that anyone with a desire to serve can contribute without needing insider connections.
I have gained a deeper appreciation for the dedication of our volunteer committees and the importance of acting on their recommendations promptly. Thanks to the Downtown Improvement Committee, the Greater Gloucester Chamber of Commerce, and our DPW, new public restrooms, wayfinding signage, and optimized parking spaces will soon enhance our downtown’s appeal. My role was to ensure resident and business feedback was heard and to keep pushing until approved plans were implemented.
However, delays in execution revealed a need to improve our Town’s transition from planning to implementation. To address this, I influenced the Select Board to adopt an Action Item List, reviewed at each meeting to prevent oversights. While helpful, this is no substitute for broader operational improvements. It’s an example of how communication with residents remains an area for growth. While we have examples of effective engagement, there are instances where residents feel unheard or uninformed. Consistent, transparent communication—starting with active listening and followed by regular updates—builds trust and strengthens our local government. I am committed to making this a priority.
Preserving what we all love about Manchester includes comprehensive planning for climate resilience. The Town’s Coastal Vulnerability Action Plan is a great start, effectively outlining protections for assets along our main harbor, but other treasures, like the iconic Rotunda and Ocean Street, need attention. I support saving the Rotunda, including fundraising to replace lost grants, and holding public forums to explore Ocean Street options.
Education is another cornerstone of our community. I view music, art, foreign languages, library services and sports as essential components of a well-rounded education, not mere extras. Recent program cuts have been disheartening, and I believe we must strengthen our partnership with the school district and the Town of Essex to share non-classroom costs like health insurance and explore innovative solutions, such as a K-2 school for Essex students, to avoid unnecessary duplication.
Looking ahead, we face complex challenges: funding infrastructure, facilities, and PFAS remediation; stabilizing the school budget; revitalizing downtown; mitigating the culvert project’s impact; addressing the impact of climate change; and finding land for affordable housing—just to name a few. All of these issues demand increased public engagement and openness to bold, sometimes controversial ideas. If re-elected, I make the same commitment to you, as I did three years ago—I will listen to residents' perspectives, do my homework on the issues and work hard to achieve the best outcomes for our town.
I invite you to share your thoughts with me as we shape our Town’s future together. It would be an honor to earn your vote and continue serving this special community.