Transparency

~

Public Engagement

~

Accountability

~

Transparency ~ Public Engagement ~ Accountability ~

Melanie is running for re-election, this time for the Town Council rather than the Board of Education. She has demonstrated a commitment to transparency and passion throughout her tenure. Her experiences on the BOE have provided pivotal insight into the needs of Wallingford’s schools and families but have also revealed how resource allocation is often subject to reductions by the mayor and Town Council. Melanie knows this ongoing erosion of resources has tangible consequences, and she is committed to advocating for substantial investment in education. Excellent schools are foundational to attracting families, strengthening the community, and preparing future generations for success. Undervaluing education affects the entire town, not just students, and robust schools benefit all residents. Her goal is to help Wallingford flourish, ensuring the town remains attractive and welcoming for families, businesses, and visitors alike.

Let’s Get This Done!

Melanie will urge the Town Council to aid the Board of Education in our school renovation projects by:

  1. Setting a deadline to secure viable land for new or improved high schools

  2. Establishing a deadline for contingency planning

  3. Requiring updated plans for each school and coordinating realistic timelines with the town

  4. Working with state legislators to obtain increased reimbursement rates for school construction projects, as recently accomplished in Cheshire

  • Four people walking on a paved road seen from above. They are carrying backpacks and are dressed in casual clothes suitable for cool weather.

    Strong Schools & Youth Opportunities

    “As a parent and Board of Education member, I know strong schools build a strong community. I’ll make sure Wallingford invests appropriately in education and supports opportunities for every child to succeed.”

  • A small glass cup filled with various coins and a green plant sprouting from the coins.

    Responsible Growth & Smart Budgeting

    “Wallingford deserves responsible growth. I’ll use my experience managing big public projects to recommend strategies to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely—keeping our town affordable while preparing for the future.”

  • A family walking outdoors in an open grassy field, holding hands, with children of different ages, under a cloudy sky.

    Healthy, Safe, & Thriving Community

    “Healthy, safe communities don’t happen by accident—they’re built through prevention, engagement, and smart planning. I’ll work to keep Wallingford vibrant, connected, and welcoming for all.”

Vision For the Future

  1. Enhance public transportation

  2. Diversify housing, including mixed-income options for young professionals, families, and seniors

  3. Continue revitalizing downtown spaces, particularly lower downtown

  4. Maintain and improve public parks and trails

  5. Protect green spaces & offer green building incentives for businesses

  6. Foster transparent planning and inclusivity with community work groups

  7. Encourage youth involvement through civic engagement groups

  8. Invest in schools and form partnerships with higher education and technical programs

A group of children and two women posing with awards and certificates in a gymnasium, likely at a school event, with banners and spectators in the background.

Based in Experience

Melanie is proud of the work she’s done on the Board of Education, and she looks forward to bringing the same commitment to open communication, thoughtful planning, and measurable results to the Town Council.

While many accomplishments are collaborative, here are five specific efforts Melanie has championed:

  • Spearheaded efforts for the Board of Education to host two public forums focused on the Educational Specifications for the proposed One High School, creating a space for community feedback and transparent dialogue.

  • Ensured that the proposed high school plan includes dedicated classrooms for every teacher—preserving instructional consistency and professional dignity.

  • Successfully advocated for clearer, more accessible language in meeting agendas to improve transparency and public understanding of BOE actions.

  • Provided consistent written synopses of Board of Education meetings to increase public access to key decisions and reduce barriers to engagement.

  • Alongside fellow board members, pushed for greater oversight and accountability in school district projects that directly impact Wallingford students, staff, and taxpayers.

People sitting at round tables during a conference or meeting in a large indoor space with glass walls, some smiling and holding coffee cups.
Invitation to an event celebrating Women's History Month and Women PAC with details about date, time, location, and RSVP email.
A group of twelve smiling people, mostly women, gathered in a warmly lit room with windows and framed artwork, posing for a photo.
Three women smiling and holding coffee cups at an indoor event with many people in the background, some seated at tables and others standing.