ABOUT ME

Hi, I'm Paul Joy

WHY I'M RUNNING

As a parent with three children in Belmont Public Schools, I am deeply invested in the future of our town. I bring a blend of professional expertise, proven leadership, and a keen collaborative approach to problem-solving. Together, we can build a Belmont that not only meets today's challenges but also paves the way for a brighter future.

I strongly believe in the power of community and the importance of effective local governance. My goal is to find lasting solutions to the issues that matter most to Belmont residents — government efficiency, economic stability, environmental responsibility, and inclusive, active community engagement.

A VISION FOR A BETTER BELMONT

Economic Stability
- Tackle the structural deficit with comprehensive financial planning.
- Promote responsible growth to enhance our commercial tax base.
Government Reform
- Increase the effectiveness of municipal government.
- Advocate for a larger Select Board to better represent our diverse community.
Environmental Stewardship
- Support sustainable infrastructure projects.
- Champion initiatives to combat climate change at the local level.
Community Engagement
- Fosters and upholds inclusive decision-making among all residents.
- Encourage resident participation in governance and community activities.

I ASK FOR YOUR VOTE

Let's partner in creating Belmont's future

On April 1, 2025, I respectfully ask for your vote to join the Belmont Select Board. As a seven-year Belmont resident, an experienced Town Meeting member, and the current Chair of the Economic Development Committee, I am committed to building a future where Belmont thrives. My family and I chose Belmont for its promise, community spirit, and capacity for thoughtful, forward-looking decision-making.

Our town faces significant challenges, from ensuring stable school funding to improving our infrastructure like streets, sidewalks, and playing fields, and modernizing our zoning and governance structures. These issues demand both proven leadership and innovative approaches. My professional experience in infrastructure sustainability, coupled with managing non-profits and working with private enterprises, has shown me that government can do more than just follow precedent; it can imagine, experiment with, and scale new solutions to benefit everyone. This approach fosters creativity, responsiveness, and a willingness to explore better ways of doing things.

In recent years, my volunteer efforts have taught me crucial lessons: never assume you have all the answers; don't take criticism personally; work through idea rejection to achieve better outcomes; listen and collaborate openly; and take a stand when progress is too slow. I've demonstrated this through initiatives like championing the successful restaurant-friendly zoning changes passed in 2023, which have already started to promote business growth, ease the tax burden, and support our local businesses in becoming more successful. Additionally, I've advocated for expanding our Select Board to ensure more representative governance.

As we look to the future, let’s partner in creating a Belmont that is not only prosperous and forward-thinking but also transparent and accountable. Here, common sense prevails, promises are kept, and we confront our town's issues head-on. I believe that you don't need to serve for decades to make a meaningful difference; with fresh ideas and a commitment to action, we can achieve genuine progress.

Let's work together to build a community where every resident can see the impact of their involvement and where our collective efforts lead to a vibrant, inclusive Belmont.