Opinion: Milton’s future is on the Ballot — Your vote matters

Milton’s town elections are just around the corner, and this year’s vote is more than routine—it’s pivotal. This spring, the decisions made at the ballot box will shape Milton’s short- and medium-term future. From our schools and parks to housing, budgeting, and how we treat one another as neighbors—local leadership has a direct impact on our daily lives and the future generations.

And yet, too often in Milton, decisions are made without broad community input. Sometimes, they happen behind closed doors. Sometimes, they’re driven by entrenched interests, personal politics, or privilege. This isn’t how a healthy, inclusive town should function—and it certainly isn’t what Milton residents deserve.

This moment demands more. We face real challenges: strained budgets, cultural divisions, rising tensions around identity and equity, and an urgent need for transparent, future-focused planning. These issues require leadership that is not only experienced but also courageous, collaborative, and rooted in service.

It’s time to elect leaders who reflect the values of the community—not just a select few. Milton needs people in office who will listen first, act fairly, and work hard for everyone, not just those with the loudest voices or deepest connections.

We need leaders who believe in transparency, who will engage residents in meaningful dialogue, and who are ready to help us move forward with equity, innovation, and care. Leaders who understand that the Select Board and other town committees set the tone—for how we make decisions, how we disagree, and how we show up for one another.

This year, we have an opportunity to make a shift—an opportunity to choose fresh leadership that reflects our town’s full diversity and strength. People like Winston Daley, Liz Dillon, or Meghan Haggerty bring exactly that—a mix of professional experience, community commitment, and a sincere desire to build bridges. They have the skills and attitude Milton needs right now. As importantly, they bring compassion, humility, and a true dedication to the public good.

But this election isn’t just about one candidate or a group. It’s about us. About what kind of Milton we want to live in and what kind of legacy we want to leave for the next generation. It’s about restoring trust, rebuilding connections and building new ones, and making sure every resident has a voice in the decisions that shape their lives.

So this is a call to action—get informed, get engaged, and get out to vote. Talk to your neighbors. Ask questions. Show up. Because the future of Milton isn’t just in the hands of those who run—it’s in the hands of those who vote.

Let’s move beyond division. Let’s lead with heart. Let’s build a Milton that listens, includes, and grows—together.

Disclaimer: The views expressed here are solely my own. I have not been paid or influenced by Winston Daley or his campaign. This is an independent and genuine expression of support, rooted in Winston’s long-standing commitment to our community.

— “Uncle” Bouba Dieme
Community Advocate & Milton Resident

This is an opinion piece. The Milton Scene provides a platform for diverse voices.  The views expressed in this piece are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Milton Scene.