Read Jackie’s profile at benningtonbanner.com
I bring a unique blend of community involvement, professional expertise, and proven leadership to the table. I studied Computer Science and Philosophy — a combination that sharpened both my analytical and ethical reasoning.
My career as an IT consultant afforded me the opportunity to work with a diverse range of businesses, from legal and medical firms to municipal organizations, police and fire departments, retail establishments, libraries, educational institutions, and nonprofits. Today, as Director of Technology and member of the leadership team responsible for scaling my company beyond $10M in annual revenue, I bring a proven track record of problem-solving, innovation, and strategic growth.
Extensive board experience — at a regional addiction recovery organization, as chair of Queer Connect, and as chair of the municipal Charter Review Committee — has prepared me to work collaboratively and listen to diverse perspectives. I’ve learned what it takes to hit the ground running and believe my track record demonstrates my ability to deliver tangible and practical results for our community. I also love this town and strongly believe in its potential.
I strongly support education and look forward to working with our local school board to ensure our children have every advantage. Recognizing that much of our property taxes are driven by education spending, I will work to lower municipal taxes by expanding our tax base through strategic housing and business growth initiatives.
Bennington has already taken a promising step with the Benn High redevelopment — a public-private partnership — but more work remains. The abandoned Energizer facility presents another opportunity; if transformed into over 350 housing units, it could significantly ease our current shortage of over 1,000 units. Establishing a land bank to transfer such properties would be a proactive first step toward engaging the right developers.
On the business front, I will champion policies that encourage young entrepreneurs, a crucial move as many long-standing downtown business owners look to retire. Furthermore, I’ve already begun exploring ways to leverage the skills of remote workers who have recently moved here through nurturing a tech economy that complements our established education, healthcare, manufacturing and tourism industries.
Together, these initiatives will create a holistic foundation for a thriving, sustainable Bennington.
Additionally, Bennington needs to address community safety, support vulnerable populations, and enhance civic engagement.
Safety, to me, means not only reducing crime and street harassment but also ensuring that our most vulnerable — unhoused adults, unattended children, refugees, and seniors — have access to warm shelters, nourishing meals, and compassionate care. I’m committed to working with law enforcement and community organizations to build these supports.
I believe in transparent governance that invites every voice to the table. By increasing community involvement and fostering open dialogue, we can address challenges like addiction, homelessness, and other emerging issues with comprehensive, inclusive solutions.
In every role I’ve held, I’ve prioritized results and meaningful community engagement. I’m asking for your vote because I’m ready to bring my experience, dedication, and passion to the Select Board. Together we can build a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Bennington for everyone.
