Introducing Jackie Lavender Bird

Today I would like to formally introduce the newest member of my office staff: Jackie Lavender Bird, the new Director of Community Services and City Operations. Jackie is replacing Mike Lindstrom, who has moved on to Andover as Deputy Town Manager.

Jackie brings a wealth of experience to our office. She served as Alderman at Large from 2011 to 2015, and during that time she was Chair of the Appropriations and Public Service Committees. Jackie also served as Outreach and Development Specialist for MAAV (Melrose Alliance Against Violence), Director of Constituent Services for then US Congressman Ed Markey, and, most recently, Director of Marketing and Communications for Mystic Valley Elder Services.

I chose Jackie for the position because I feel her varied experience will serve her well in this multifaceted position, and because I respected her as a colleague when we served together on the Board of Aldermen. She comes to the office already knowing how City Hall works, how to work with constituents to resolve their issues, and how to communicate well, whether in a neighborhood meeting or a statement to the media. Since she began, on July 30, she has made the job her own, working well with the rest of our staff and quickly coming up to speed on a variety of projects. I hope you will offer her a warm welcome, and I look forward to working with her in the months to come.