John Flaherty Announces Candidacy for Woburn Mayor

The following is an announcement by John Flaherty:

It is with great excitement that I announce my candidacy for the Mayor of our great City of Woburn. As a lifelong resident, I would like to give back to the community that has helped me form a great family, business, and pride of being a Woburnite.

I have dedicated my life to family, volunteerism, philanthropy, and reaching out to those in need in Woburn.

First and foremost, I am a family man.  My parents settled in Woburn’s South End on Lakeview Terrace.  We were from modest means, and my parents had to work hard for all that they achieved.  But, we always had three meals a day at the dinner table, and they were always there for advice. They were great role models and I appreciate all they have done for me.  I am forever grateful.

I know firsthand what it means to struggle.  Like many young adults, I’ve had my share of bumps and bruises. I have worked hard to overcome many obstacles, and I have persevered.  The lessons I learned along the way have turned me into the man I am today, an honest and hardworking businessman.

I graduated from Woburn Memorial High School in 1974, and during those years, formed many friendships that remain strong to this day.  I met my wife Kathryn (Kathy) Lynch at the age of 13 on Fleming Field at the Clapp School.  We have been married for 35 years and have three wonderful children: Karla, Karolyn, and John William (Jay).  Kathy and I are proud grandparents of Olivia. She is a sweetheart, and brings tremendous joy into our lives.

From a small company of just two people, I have helped to grow ADA Solutions, Inc. into an organization that holds several patents, and employs over 250 people.  ADA Solutions is the largest provider of detectable warning tiles in the world with over 1500 distributors in the U.S. alone.  I am a product of the “American Dream” as I started with nothing and am now fortunate enough to be retired at the age of 55.

However, I am concerned about the current direction of our city. About the breakdown in communication that exists that serves to suppress healthy relationships.  I believe my background as a businessman, and as a community activist, clearly demonstrate my ability to bring people together for a stronger and more effective city.  I will keep Woburn affordable, and take no salary, benefits, or any other compensation while serving as your Mayor.  I will reestablish the open door policy, and will work hard to make myself available to listen to the concerns of ALL citizens.  All who know me realize how transparent and approachable I am, and will continue to be as your Mayor. After all, it is you, the taxpayers, who own this great city, and you deserve straight and honest answers from your city officials.

If elected, I will be committed to the following:

• Keeping Woburn affordable for seniors, veterans and all Woburn residents.
• Building transparency and trust for the residents and taxpayers of Woburn.
• Improving quality education for our young, the future of this nation.
• Open communication with the City Council, and City Boards.  This is extremely important to our city’s success.
• A renewed focus on public safety including Fire, Police and DPW services.
• Restore Truth, Trust, Transparency and an Open-Door policy to the Mayor’s office.
• Like a well-run business, all Woburn residents should expect excellent customer service.

In the next several months you will hear from my committee and from me.  I encourage all who are interested to join my Facebook page (John Flaherty for Mayor), and join our campaign for what will be an exciting time for the city of Woburn.  I humbly ask for your support, and your vote, this coming November. 

Thank you,

John Flaherty