My name is Christopher Cook, and I am running for the Town of Reading Select Board in the upcoming regular election on April 8, 2025.

While my family and I are relatively new in town , I have had a connection to the local area for many years.  I am a graduate of Andover High School and UMass-Amherst.  Post graduation I was a resident of Andover and active in local town politics/operations, including being one of two finalists for the Andover Select Board’s appointment to the Retirement Board in 2014.  As my wife (Brittany) and I decided to start a family a few years ago, we knew we wanted to purchase a home in the Metro-North Boston area.  After spending 5 years renting in Stoneham, we were excited to have the opportunity to successfully purchase a home in Reading (Grove Street), especially in such a competitive real estate market in both availability and affordability. 

Brittany and I were attracted to many of the benefits Reading brings to the table.  Exceptional public schools, proximity to both Boston and other local areas, access to public transportation, and a vibrant, active, and safe community.  We believe Reading is an outstanding suburban community for both us and our son (Landon) and are happy that we planted seeds to grow roots for the long term while we raise our family!

After graduating from college, I began working in a local community bank in retail banking and moved up and through operations roles.  Starting in 2012, I began my current career in public service to the Commonwealth as a bank examiner for the Division of Banks.  After a series of internal promotions, I now hold a managerial role at the Division of Banks.  Through both education and experience, I have developed a strong background in and knowledge of budgeting & financial analysis, corporate governance matters, and evaluating complicated legal & regulatory issues in the industries overseen.  I am proud of my 12+ years of public service to the Commonwealth and its residents and look forward to expanding my service to the local level via the Select Board.

As a Select Board member, I will bring fresh perspectives on both current and projected issues/concerns that the town is facing.  I believe the Select Board must provide satisfactory oversight and direction to the Town Manager (and staff), as well as provide sufficient information and disclosure to Town Meeting, to ensure decisions are made in the best interests of the entire town.  Reading faces similar issues and concerns as other desirable suburban towns; including budgeting/expense growth vs. revenue potential, housing affordability, increasing specialized educational costs, and state-led zoning mandates.  These competing priorities will ultimately lead toward the Select Board, as well as Town Meeting and in some cases voters, having to make difficult decisions in the near to moderate term as it relates to affordability and ability to provide desired services.  As a Select Board member, I will bring a “common sense” approach to difficult decisions and will provide measured and pragmatic input to solutions, mixed with creativity and “out of the box” thinking.  Please see the Priorities section of this website for further information and detail on focus areas.