Why I’m running

Sandwich is at an important point, with major decisions ahead that will shape affordability, infrastructure investments, and the level of service residents receive for years to come. The Select Board and town staff have done important work positioning the Town to meet these challenges, and there is more thoughtful work ahead.

From wastewater and capital planning to housing pressures and changes in state policy, these issues are complex and interconnected. I’m running for Select Board because I want to contribute my experience and perspective and help the Town continue making informed, disciplined decisions.

I believe Sandwich works best when there is clear communication, careful planning, and collaboration between the Select Board, the Town Manager, staff, and the community. My goal is to support that approach and help move the Town forward in a responsible and transparent way.

My approach as a Select Board member

• I bring nearly 20 years of experience at the state, county, and municipal levels, along with private sector experience that keeps me focused on practical outcomes.

• Start with the facts and explain them clearly, without jargon.

• Plan for the long term while keeping today’s costs front and center.

• Ask practical questions about what things cost, how long they take, and how they actually work.

Rising taxes and budget pressures

The biggest concern I hear from people in Sandwich is rising property taxes. It is a real issue and it deserves an honest explanation.

Much of the pressure on the town budget comes from costs that are largely outside the direct control of the Select Board. Staffing costs make up a significant portion of the budget, including negotiated contract raises, health insurance, and pension obligations. These are necessary expenses tied to delivering core services, but they often grow faster than the limits allowed under Proposition 2½.

Sandwich has done a good job managing these pressures and maintaining financial discipline. That matters, because when budgets get tight the choices are difficult, cuts to staffing in schools or public safety, reduced services, or deferred maintenance.

To address these challenges responsibly, I support a balanced approach.

Advocate for more state aid by working with our state representatives and senators to push for stronger and more reliable municipal funding.

Be clear and transparent so residents understand what is driving costs, what tradeoffs exist, and what decisions are within local control versus state mandates.

Plan ahead by building multi-year financial and capital plans so Sandwich can anticipate cost pressures, discuss them openly, and avoid last-minute decisions driven by deadlines.

Where possible, that also means pursuing outside funding and partnerships carefully and selectively to reduce pressure on local taxpayers, without taking on unsustainable long term obligations.

Get involved

If you care about the future of Sandwich and want to be part of the conversation, I would welcome the opportunity to hear from you.

Ways to help include volunteering, posting a yard sign, or sharing the issues you would like the Select Board focused on.

Email: dave@davesullivanforsandwich.com

Paid for by the Dave Sullivan Committee for Select Board.