EDITOR’S NOTE: The following are answers submitted by Councilor-At-Large Diane LeBlanc. Waltham Patch posed the questions and the answers were edited only for clarity and readability. Check out our other election coverage.
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Current Employment: National Archives Records Administration – Regional Liaison, Greater Boston Federal Executive Board – Chair
Why Are You Running For City Council?:
I am running for City Council because I love the city of Waltham and the people of Waltham. I am committed to issues which have a direct impact on the quality of life for our residents and to ensuring that our city remains a safe and affordable community for current and future generations.
What is your professional background?/ How are your skills useful in representing constituents?
I have a Masters Degree in Public Administration with a concentration in budget and finance and years of experience managing delivery of services, public facilities and a multi-faceted, multi-million dollar budget. I have a demonstrated record of effective management, promoting change and achieving results.
I have worked at the National Archives in Waltham for 33 years. I began as a student trainee and worked my way up to become Regional Administrator. I currently head the Greater Boston Federal Executive Board which brings together over 100 Federal agency offices to enhance government efficiencies and work on common issues. I have provided leadership to this Board for 25 years and have served as its Vice Chair or Chair for 15 Years. I have been honored as Distinguished Public Administrator of the Year and Distinguished Federal Executive of the Year. The citation reads “She exemplifies the highest ideals of public service – dedication, honor and integrity. Her impact is measured by her ability to get results that the American people care about.”
I currently serve as the Vice Chair of Our Lady’s Parish Council, and as a member of the Northeast Elementary School Council, and the YMCA Board of Directors. I am an advocate for our nation’s veterans and for promoting our city’s history. I have provided leadership on the Vietnam Moving Wall Committee, the Circle of Remembrance Committee and the Historic Waltham Committee. In connection with the 2010 federal census, I co-chaired the city’s Complete Count Committee and was instrumental in forming a committee truly representative of Waltham’s diverse community. I also worked with the Waltham Public Schools to create their first Bullying Prevention Plan.
If elected, what would be your top priority?
My top priority is to do my best each and every day to serve the people of Waltham and to ensure that Waltham remains a great place to live, work and do business. This means being accessible to all of Waltham’s residents and truly listening to ensure that I am working on their priorities and that my votes are informed by their input.
Why should voters reelection you when you have already served several years?
I have lived and worked in Waltham for most of my life and I am active in our community. I was elected to the City Council in November of 2009, and currently serve on the Long Term Debt Committee, the Public Works Committee, the Veterans Services Committee and the E-Committee. I have the leadership, experience and commitment necessary to serve the community as a Councilor-At-Large and a demonstrated record of success in this regard. I know that serving as a Councilor-At-Large is a true privilege and not an entitlement. I am about city government that is accessible, accountable and works for you! You can always reach me at dianeleblancatlarge@yahoo.com or at 781 526-1285.