Letter from Patrick Rooney: Joe Gallagher is the leader Lynnfield needs

To Whom It May Concern:

I am writing in support of Joe Gallagher’s candidacy for the Lynnfield Select Board.

For more than 20 years, I have known Joe personally and professionally, witnessing firsthand his passionate dedication to public service, impeccable work ethic and project management skills, as well as collaborative approach to solving complex issues as part of team—all qualities that make him the ideal person to help lead Lynnfield during this next chapter of our town’s storied history.

As a technology project manager for academic publishers during the earlier part of his career, Joe designed and produced supplemental educational technology used by college professors, K-12 teachers, and their students across the country. In this highly-visible role, Joe worked with virtually every person throughout our publishing company—from the president and chief marketing officer to sales reps and editorial staff—and quickly built a reputation as reliable, well-liked colleague who others respected for his ability to resolve problems, find common ground, and manage multiple projects on time and within budget.

In 2017, when my wife and I moved to Lynnfield, I saw Joe apply these skills and expertise to something he cares deeply about: public service and helping his neighbors. When the Lynnfield Youth Lacrosse program’s website experienced issues in the days leading up to the 2023 season’s open registration, Joe stepped in to help, working several long days to resolve the various tech bugs that would have severely impacted the start of the season. As a member of the Lynnfield Library Board of Trustees, where he currently serves, I (and the town) saw how Joe championed the case for the New Library and Renovation project.

Joe dedicated many volunteer hours to produce communications materials about the Library projects so that residents could understand the design and finances of the initiative, as well as organizing meetings to help address residents’ questions and concerns. Admirably (but unsurprisingly) Joe also volunteered to answer the critical questions posed by residents who opposed the initiative during countless conversations and meetings. Joe approached this task with professionalism and civility while providing transparency and accountability, values that we need in politics now more than ever before.

Lastly, as a stay-at-home dad of three girls, Joe is personally committed to improving Lynnfield’s here and now, as well as its future for the benefit of the next generation. Given the challenges and opportunities our town currently faces, I could not think of a more capable, suitable leader to represent us.

I hope other residents will join me in voting for Joe for the Select Board.

Respectfully,

Patrick Rooney