Matthew Ryan vs. Kate Donovan: A Choice Between Experience and Reform for Blackstone Collector-Treasurer
As Blackstone voters prepare for the April 7th election, the race for Collector-Treasurer presents two distinct candidates: incumbent Matthew Ryan and challenger Kate Donovan. This election offers a choice between continuity and experience versus a push for reform and new perspectives.
Matthew Ryan: Proven Leadership and Dedication
Matthew Ryan, the current Collector-Treasurer, is seeking re-election after serving since 2022. A lifelong resident of Blackstone, Ryan emphasizes his deep-rooted connection to the town and his commitment to serving with “honor, integrity, and proven leadership.”
Key Accomplishments:
- Successfully managed town finances and ensured responsible budgeting.
- Implemented initiatives to improve efficiency in tax collection and financial operations.
- Worked collaboratively with town leadership to support Blackstone’s fiscal health.
- Brings experience and stability to the office, focusing on continued progress.
Ryan’s campaign highlights his dedication to the town and his track record of fiscal responsibility. He promises to continue delivering his “very best day in and day out” if re-elected.
Kate Donovan: Fresh Eyes and Reform-Minded Leadership
Kate Donovan enters the race advocating for change, accountability, and modernization in the Collector-Treasurer’s office. She presents herself as a candidate with a strong financial background and a fresh perspective on town governance.
Key Priorities:
- Advocates for certification through the Massachusetts Treasurer Collector Association, emphasizing that Blackstone has never had a Certified Treasurer Collector.
- Calls for increased transparency and data-driven financial decision-making.
- Promises to prioritize ethical governance, ensuring compliance with conflict-of-interest rules and avoiding partisan disruptions.
- Highlights financial responsibility, pledging to safeguard tax dollars through prudent investment and careful budgeting.
Donovan also seeks to address broader financial concerns in Blackstone, pointing to the challenges faced by both younger residents struggling with high rent and seniors still managing mortgages. She pledges to apply her financial expertise to benefit all taxpayers.
The race for Blackstone Collector-Treasurer presents voters with a decision between institutional knowledge and fresh perspective. Incumbent Matthew Ryan is seeking re-election, emphasizing his education, training, and current service in the role. Challenger Kate Donovan brings a data-driven approach, highlighting her background in finance and analytics.
At the recent candidates forum, Ryan pointed to his Bachelor’s degree in public administration, municipal finance certification, and current coursework with the Massachusetts Municipal Association. He touted his progress toward full treasurer certification, expected later this year, and referenced his public service career, including time as a project manager and police officer.
Donovan, who holds a degree in economics and finance from Northeastern University, underscored her experience as a data analyst. She believes Blackstone needs better tools to track financial trends, improve transparency, and prepare for upcoming challenges like the proposed regional school.
On safeguarding town finances, Ryan described the state regulations governing municipal investments, emphasizing their protective role. Donovan agreed on the need for caution, but stressed that internal financial data needs to be reviewed regularly and used more strategically.
Both candidates addressed payroll system upgrades, with Donovan supporting upcoming automation and Ryan detailing work already underway to modernize payroll processes and improve department coordination.
In closing, Donovan framed the race as an opportunity to improve efficiency and data use at a critical time for Blackstone. Ryan, drawing on decades of public service, positioned himself as the experienced choice to maintain stability and progress.
The Choice for Blackstone Voters
- Matthew Ryan offers experience, continuity, and a steady hand in managing the town’s finances.
- Kate Donovan advocates for reform, increased training, and a new approach to financial oversight.
Both candidates bring different strengths to the table, making this a pivotal election for Blackstone’s financial future. Voters will decide whether they want to continue with Ryan’s leadership or embrace Donovan’s push for modernization and change.
