Candidacy Announcement
Brad Freeman, a respected community leader and government relations professional, has announced his candidacy to represent the 4 th Ward on the Melrose City Council, entering an open race to replace departing Councilor Mark Garipay.
Since moving to Melrose to raise his family in 2011, Freeman sought opportunities to contribute to the city, including currently serving as a member of the Melrose Park Commission and on the Melrose Youth Softball Board of Directors, after previously serving on the Melrose Incarnation Baseball Board of Directors and the Winthrop Elementary School Site Council. He also represented Melrose citizens on a Community Panel that helped advise on the selection of Melrose Police Chief Faller in 2022.
Freeman has spent nearly twenty years working in and around state government and politics, which has afforded him a unique perspective on the role of city government and how its leaders can best position municipalities for success. He currently serves as the Vice President of Government Relations for the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts, which represents more than 50 private non-profit colleges and universities throughout the state. Through this work, Freeman led a coalition in 2016 to create a tax deduction for Massachusetts families saving for college using the state’s 529 plan. Every year this tax deduction helps thousands of Massachusetts families who are saving money for their children’s education.
“I am running because I love Melrose and hope to give back to the city that has given so much to me and my family. I am optimistic about the future of Melrose and, if elected, will work collaboratively on the Council to find pragmatic solutions that keep Melrose moving forward,” Freeman said.
Freeman’s platform focuses on delivering results on priorities that benefit all Melrosians, including advocating for funding for strong schools, safe roads and infrastructure, and community spaces and programing that bring us together. He will push for smart growth that keeps Melrose affordable while supporting our small businesses.
“Most importantly, I promise to always listen to the residents of Ward 4 and be their voice on the Melrose City Council. I will be present in our neighborhoods, engaged in conversations and accessible to everyone,” said Freeman.
Freeman resides with his wife, Kate, and two children, Liam and Rory in Ward 4.
