ABOUT US
What We Stand For
Focus on Weston takes evidence-based positions on matters that are in the interest of town residents and tax payers. These include warrant articles, ballot questions, town leadership, and issues that effect educational excellence and effective governance. We believe that the continued prosperity of Weston relies on informed and engaged citizens, strong stewardship, and an implicit social contract that allows residents to trust town leaders to wisely address the needs of the town for today and in the days to come.
As residents, taxpayers, and citizens it is our responsibility to hold our leaders and institutions accountable for meeting high standards.
To achieve these aims, we are focused on:
Vision and Planning – Encourage the development of a long-term vision and strategic plans for the Town and the Weston Public Schools, with the benchmarks and tools to measure our progress and achieve that vision.
Communication – Communicate clearly with residents on the financial challenges facing the Town, and the economic implications of proposed annual budgets, initiatives, and major capital projects before they are adopted.
Involvement – Encourage all eligible residents to participate in town elections and decision-making, and support those with an interest in Town governance, by providing analytical and communications support.
Who We Are
We are a grassroots group of Weston residents with a range of experience, expertise, political views, and town history. We have served as volunteers on town boards and committees, often for many years. We share a love of all that makes Weston a special place, and a desire to empower our community to make informed choices about how our tax dollars are spent and our town is governed. Articles published by Focus on Weston are unsigned because our content represents the collective point of view and position of the organization, rather than the opinion of any one individual. We conduct research, analyze data, and attempt to provide a clear rationale that is consistent with our stated mission and methodology. We want to address controversial topics without the distraction of who the author is rather than the merit of what the article says. To quote the Boston Globe’s editorial board, “Not everyone will agree with us, but for those who share our values, we hope it can help.”
Our Methodology
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1. Select an Issue
Identify topics with broad impact related to town governance, management, financial health, and taxes. Stick to the issues and avoid partisan politics.
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2. Research the Facts
Gather and analyze relevant data and consider comparable town benchmarks, approaches and outcomes. Seek input from experts, consider alternatives, and evaluate short and long term implications.
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3. Develop a Position
Test reasoning and confirm facts. Evaluate the proposal’s likelihood of success, value to community, taxpayers costs, and potential impacts. Reach consensus on a position that represents the collective viewpoint of the editorial team.
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4. Communicate to Voters
Distill complex topics into concise articles emphasizing facts and logic. Reach as many residents as possible via email and the Focus on Weston website. Consider and respond to all feedback.
Stay Informed
Enter your name and email address to receive helpful information and important updates. You may also contact us directly at info@focusonweston.org.