Mark Gould’s Bio – Town Council Candidate for Re-election
Mark S. Gould, Jr.
I’m a proud husband, father of two incredible young boys, and a marathon runner. I’m not a politician. I believe in common sense, calling it like it is, and making decisions based on facts—not political pressure. I listen to every perspective, but I never compromise my integrity—my votes are always based on what’s best for the people, not on blindly following leadership.
I was the only town councilor to vote in favor of a $1M tax cut. (Vote 8-1) I was the only town councilor to vote against a $2M feasibility study when $1M would have sufficed and my compromise suggestion of $1.5M was not accepted. (Vote 8-1) I was the only town councilor to vote against an exorbitant $5M for bleachers and toilets. (Vote 8-1) I was the only town councilor to vote against a $300K scoreboard when a donated scoreboard or a $60K scoreboard as neighboring towns have would have sufficed. (Vote 8-1)
My career has always been about public service:
Served in U.S. Army as an enlisted soldier
As an accountant performed multi-million dollar complex tax returns
As an attorney, I’ve represented individuals and businesses.
I’ve represented municipalities in Land, Superior, and Appeals Court.
I’ve worked for the State of Massachusetts, drafting and interpreting finance laws.
I currently serve as a municipal CFO—so I understand budgets, financial planning, and responsible governance.
Serving on the Town Council is an honor, and I take this volunteer, unpaid role seriously because North Attleboro is my hometown. I’m running to protect our future, ensure financial stability, and bring innovative, practical leadership to the table.
Let’s build a better North Attleboro—together.
5 of the Most Important Issues the Town is Facing
Inadequate repair and maintenance to schools. Potential solution: A private contract to manage upkeep.
Need more funding to repair roads
Need Fire Station
Water systems need $20M to meet federal PSAS regulations
Public buildings are aging fast and not adequately maintained and repairs inadequately triaged.
$175M in retiree pensions and health insurance
$20M for the Ten Mile River
Mounting costs for public safety
Apparent significant budget issues
Need checks and balances on Executive Branch
Need more transparency and accountability
Need Public Property/Capital Improvements Committee
Need Department Head Appointments Review Committee
Consider the benefit of November Town Elections instead of April
Consider 3 Year Staggered Council Terms where 3 councilors are elected annually instead of all 9 at once
Consider having Council elect its own president among the elected councilors rather than the top vote getter.
Use free cash for one-time and not recurring expenses, such as giving some back to the people that pay the town’s bills as a tax rate reduction
I proposed a Senior Exemption to the High School tax if the vote passes in June.
