Geoff Epstein Unveils Urgent Plans to Transform Framingham Mayor Race

UPDATE: In a bold move ahead of the November 4 election, mayoral candidate Geoff Epstein has outlined his urgent priorities to become Framingham‘s third mayor. Facing off against incumbent Charlie Sisitsky, Epstein aims to reshape the city’s approach to education, environmental initiatives, and critical infrastructure.

Epstein, a former School Committee member, is bringing significant attention to his campaign, especially following a recent spike in media interest linked to his name. “You just have to take it as it comes and laugh about it,” Epstein remarked regarding the notoriety of sharing a name with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. He insists his focus remains on the future of Framingham.

With a clear campaign finance strategy, Epstein has raised $10,838—including $5,000 of his own money—far behind Sisitsky’s $42,763. He emphasizes the need for $30,000 to effectively reach voters through mailers and social media. “If you’re targeting 10,000 voters, it costs about $1 for each one,” he explained.

Epstein’s top three priorities are urgent:
1. **Education:** He claims Framingham schools have suffered a drastic reduction of $30 million in taxpayer support. “If it had stayed on the trajectory it was on, the local support…would be at $95 million,” he stated, highlighting falling MCAS scores across the board. He proposes expanding preschool programs and increasing compensation for classroom aides to improve education outcomes.

2. **Environment:** Epstein aims to significantly expand solar energy projects in Framingham. He estimates that installing solar panels at public buildings could save the city up to $3 million in utility costs. “We should have gone gangbusters on that,” he asserted, pledging to initiate 10 solar installations per year if elected.

3. **Infrastructure:** Epstein is alarmed by the city’s crumbling roads and water systems, calling them a “ticking time bomb.” He referenced a public hearing where the Department of Public Works Director underscored the urgent need for investment in infrastructure. “It’s Governance 101; invest in your infrastructure,” he urged.

Epstein’s campaign is gaining traction as residents seek a leader who prioritizes public service over developer influence. He has pledged to refuse donations from real estate developers, citing their potential to sway city officials. “When developers pay you $1,000, they expect something back,” he noted, reaffirming his commitment to an ethical campaign.

As the October 25 voter registration deadline approaches, the urgency of this election continues to mount. Public officials will be sworn in on January 1, 2024. Epstein’s vision for Framingham is resonating with voters, igniting discussions about the future of the city.

With the election just weeks away, all eyes are on Framingham as Epstein and Sisitsky prepare for a pivotal showdown that could reshape the city’s future. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing story.