Select Board Member Katie Phelan was elected as the chair of the committee Wednesday night, and Member Doug Thompson was voted in as the new vice chair.
“I look forward to working with Katie and the other Select Board members to build more consensus than we experienced over the last year,” Thompson said. “I hope the vast majority of our votes can be unanimous, especially on the big issues before us, and we all demonstrate a commitment to compromise.”
Phelan did not respond for request to comment via email prior to publication.
A vote for a new chair and vice chair takes place after each election, according to outgoing Select Board Chair Mary Ellen Fletcher.
Phelan previously served as the vice chair for two years. She has been on the board for three years and was re-elected in April.
During her campaign, Phelan highlighted her involvement in several initiatives for Swampscott, including the acquisition of open space and securing $1.7 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to improve Fisherman’s Beach. She also helped with the Hadley School Land Development agreement, which will allow the site to be re-developed into a boutique hotel.
Phelan, a legal professional, also supported a feasibility study for a Swampscott Community Life Center and has worked to bring in a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion consultant.
Outside of her Select Board work, Phelan volunteers in the local school district as well as with youth sports programs.
“Over the past three years, listening and engaging with residents, employees at town hall, and my fellow Select Board members has been at the core of my approach, and I look forward to continuing those conversations,” Phelan said during her April campaign.
Thompson has been on the board for two years. He previously served on the Swampscott Climate Action Plan and had ran a campaign to become a state representative. This past September, Thompson became the chief executive officer of Element Care PACE, which provides comprehensive health care to at-risk seniors.
Board Member David Grishman nominated Phelan and Thompson to their new positions, and Member Danielle Leonard seconded the motion. The vote passed unanimously.
Fletcher immediately handed Phelan the gavel to lead the rest of the meeting Wednesday night.
“Congratulations,” said Fletcher, joined by other board members.
When Phelan asked Fletcher if she wanted to switch seats with Thompson so that the new chair and vice chair could be next to each other, Fletcher said “no.”
“Next time,” Phelan said. “Something to look forward to.”
Story updated May 15, 2025 at 8:15 p.m. with a quote from Thompson.
