SAUGUS — The Board of Selectmen has a new vice chairman.
Jeffrey Cicolini, an accountant who has been on the board since 2015, secured the second highest number of votes of all candidates, and was sworn in as second-in-command for the next two years Wednesday night.
“I feel every member has equal importance to our success as a community and ensuring the best outcome for our town and its residents,” said Cicolini. “I will be sure to uphold all of the responsibilities associated with this new role to the best of my ability.”
Cicolini said he is honored to be the committee’s vice chairman, but doesn’t see the new role as a big change. He plans to approach each meeting with the same research, participation, and preparation as he always has. Selectman Scott Brazis served as vice chair during his previous term.
He added that he is elated with the results of the election and that he will continue working with the same dedicated group of professionals who share a passion and vision to move Saugus forward.
“I look forward to continuing researching each and every application with the same level of detail, asking the right questions, and making sure the decision is in the best interest of Saugus while remaining committed to being open-minded and pro-business,” he said.
Chairwoman Debra Panetta finished first with 2,309 votes, followed by Cicolini with 2,050, Jennifer D’Eon with 1,932, Scott Brazis with 1,899, and Mark Mitchell with 1,661.
“I believe the voters appreciate the way this board works together as a team, for the betterment of Saugus,” said Panetta. “We are accountable, focused, and determined to do what’s in the best interest of the Saugus residents. Our meetings are professional and courteous, where people treat each other and the public with respect and dignity.”
Panetta said she is honored and humbled to receive the support from the voters that she did.
“The residents that I have spoken to feel that this board is engaged with the community, that we are approachable, and that we sincerely care about their concerns,” said Panetta. “I am confident that Jeff will be an excellent vice chairman.”
Cicolini and his wife Julie are raising their two teenage children in Saugus. He volunteers for several non-profits, including the Salem State University Foundation, where he serves as the treasurer and chair for the audit and finance committee.
Two new School Committee members, Lisa Morgante and Marc Magliozzi, were sworn in to the School Committee alongside incumbents Jeannie Meredith, Marchese, and Linda Gaieski.
