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As we consider who should serve on the Select Board in the coming years, we must recognize that the issues before the Board are no longer just local. National politics increasingly shape decisions at the town level, affecting public health, education funding, diversity and inclusion efforts, and LGBTQ+ rights. National political threats are already at our doorstep. The days of ignoring national political trends and their effect on our community are over.
Who we are as a community depends on our leaders and our actions. That’s why we must carefully consider the record and values of those running for Select Board. Their duty is to make sure Select Board policies reflect our values.
Kevin Matthews is running for Select Board. He is a member of the Republican Town Committee. Since Select Board responsibilities extend town-wide, it’s important to assess his voting record and public statements on several issues. I have concerns about his capacity to formulate policies that align with our town’s values.
Mr. Matthews’ Record Raises Public Health Concerns
COVID-19 Response: In 2021, during a discussion about mask mandates at LSRHS to curb the spread of COVID-19, Mr. Matthews opposed requiring masks—even as the Board of Health mandated them in public buildings, two students had COVID, and over 50 students were sent home with symptoms. Mr. Matthews was entrusted with the safety of L-S students but instead opted to peddle anti-masking political talking points.
Metrowest Daily News – November 13, 2021
Sudbury Station Development: In 2016 and 2017, Sudbury fought against the massive 40B housing project in Town Center, which would have been catastrophic to our town character, as well as an environmental and traffic nightmare. Mr. Matthews opposed funding the litigation that ultimately stopped this harmful project.
ARTICLE 13 – FUND LITIGATION COSTS – SUDBURY STATION PROJECT
Bruce Freeman Rail Trail (BFRT): In 2014, Mr. Matthews opposed funding the design of the BFRT—a project with an estimated 10-to-1 return on investment. The trail has since become a beloved asset for recreation, exercise, and safe student travel to schools and athletic fields. Had his delay tactic won the vote, the BFRT may not be here today.
ARTICLE 32 – COMMUNITY PRESERVATION FUND – BRUCE FREEMAN RAIL TRAIL DESIGN
Troubling Social and Policy Positions
Opposition to Marriage Equality: In 2006, almost three years after the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled in Goodridge v. Dept. of Public Health that banning same-sex marriage was unconstitutional, Mr. Matthews took to the Sudbury Town Crier, to declare that gay marriage was wrong “Because the issue of homosexual marriage undermines a foundational structure of our society.” Gay marriage was already one of our civil rights, which was affirmed by the SJC. The letter went on to say, “There is no parallel between that issue of mixed racial marriage between men and women with different skin color, and the homosexual marriage between two gay men or two lesbians.” While he is entitled to his opinion, this view is out of step with our state laws and the values of many Sudbury residents. Can he put aside his personal biases when making policy decisions that must align with constitutional liberties and state law?
The Sudbury Town Crier, August 3, 2006
Opposition to the Welcoming Town Resolution: In 2018, Sudbury Town Meeting considered a non-binding resolution affirming our town as a safe and welcoming community. The resolution did not require any action from officials; it simply supported existing Sudbury Police policies ensuring fair treatment of undocumented immigrants. Mr. Matthews opposed this resolution.
ARTICLE 44 – SUDBURY WELCOMING TOWN RESOLUTION (PETITION)
The Stakes Are High
The Federal Government is already threatening municipalities with the loss of funding if they refuse to follow newly developed federal policies, such as banning transgender youth from participating in sports. Other education-related federal grants could also be at risk, affecting Sudbury’s schools.
When asked about key issues by Sudbury Weekly, Mr. Matthews failed to provide meaningful answers, instead resorting to vague platitudes and irrelevant references. His responses were often inconsistent, inaccurate, or poorly informed — a troubling sign for Sudbury’s future.
Sudbury deserves leaders who prioritize transparency and the well-being of all residents, leaders who respect our precious laws and liberties and don’t delay critical projects needlessly. That’s why I urge you to join me in electing Lisa Kouchakdjian and Radha Gargeya to the Select Board.