BCAT News

There were appointments aplenty at the June 9 meeting of the Select Board. All of which the board unanimously approved. 

The meeting opened as a joint session between the Select Board and the Burlington Housing Authority. The Housing Authority requested Edwin Collard to fill a vacant seat on the Tenant Board. Edwin has been a resident of Burlington Housing for over three years and has been actively involved, serving as chair of the Tenant Association and has been a ‘go-to’ person for other residents. 

In the regular session Police Chief Thomas Borwne requested the appointment of full time officer Cameron Carr. Carr served as a Burlington police intern in 2024 and is expected to complete his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice at Merrimack College this year. While at the academy Carr served as a platoon and squad leader. 

Chief Browne also requested the appointment of two Special Police Officers. Retired Sergeant David McLean, who retired in March after 30 years of service. The board also approved Peter Bramante as a Special Officer.

The new Treasurers/Tax Collector Ana-Maria DeRosa, recommended Paul Shvartsman to succeed her as Deputy Treasurer/Collector. Shvartsman has served two years as Senior Tax Collector. DeRosa stated while serving in that role Shvartsman “demonstrated strong performance and a proactive approach to responsibilities.” Along with his current qualifications Shvartsman is actively on track to complete his Collector’s certification by August. Town Administrator John Danizio said, “It’s no surprise for me to see him here for promotion. It was clear he would be ready to level up when the time came.”

The new Executive Director of Youth and Family Services David Lankford was also before the board requesting two appointments. 

Emily Hall-Hampton was approved for promotion to Clinical Supervisor. Hall-Hampton has been with the Youth and Family Services for 10 years as an individual and family therapist. She has over 20 years of experience in the field of social work. She currently serves as a clinical supervisor at Boston University’s MA of social work intern program. “Emily has a continuous desire to expand her knowledge in the field of family therapy, regularly attends conferences and workshops to keep her skills current,” cited Lankford.

Lankford also introduced Margo Bunker, a Burlington resident with years of experience in the field of education including clerical work and is a certified educator in Massachusetts. Lankford also noted Bunker’s excellent communication and administrative skills. Margo Bunker was appointed the new Administrative Assistant Secretary of Youth and Family Services.