Increasing communication and engagement.

One of my primary goals is increasing communication and engagement. I want the people in Milton to see the town as partners in improving all of our lives. That requires communication and recognizing the needs of people in town and responding directly to those needs.

We have a lot of great resources available to residents, but right now the challenge is simple: people don’t always know what exists, who qualifies, or where to start. We can fix that without creating a big new bureaucracy.

Here’s what I’d like the town to do, in a practical, low-cost way:

1. Build one clear “Milton Resources” hub

A single town webpage that is easy to find, easy to read, and organized by life needs, not department names.

2. Collect info the way residents actually experience it

Instead of scattered flyers and word of mouth, the town can invite community partners to submit and update resource listings using a simple form, then town staff verifies the basics before posting.

3. Disseminate in multiple ways

Not everyone lives on the town website. We should share monthly and seasonal roundups through:

* Town social media

* Front Porch Forum

* Printed copies at the library, schools, and town offices

* A simple email sign-up list for “resource alerts”

4. Make it usable, not just “available”

Each listing should include:

* Who it’s for (eligibility)

* What it provides

* How to apply

* Deadlines

* A real contact name or phone number

* What to do if you don’t qualify (a next-best option)

This would help residents find support with things like:

* Home energy audits and weatherization

* Heating and fuel assistance

* Emergency food resources

* Housing supports

* Tuition assistance and job training opportunities

* Childcare and subsidies

* Income-based access to CSA shares and local food programs

The goal isn’t to replace community organizations. It’s to make sure residents can actually reach them, faster, with less frustration. When people can stabilize basics like heat, food, housing, and childcare, everything else gets easier: work, school, health, and community life.

If you’ve ever struggled to find the right program or had to learn about help “too late,” I want to hear what would have made it easier.