Steven Angelo

Steven Angelo is a former member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, having served as a state legislator for the 9th Essex district. A member of the Democratic Party, Angelo's political career is marked by his commitment to various environmental and regulatory issues, particularly during his time as a committee chairman. In addition to his legislative role, he has held several administrative positions in local government, including Town Manager in Saugus, Massachusetts, and Winsted, Connecticut. His career reflects a long-standing engagement with community issues and public service.

Early life and career

Steven Angelo was born on June 8, 1952. His involvement in public service began early in his life when he was elected to the Town Meeting in 1971 while still pursuing his college education. This early engagement in local governance laid the foundation for his future political career. After completing his studies, Angelo took on a role as a teacher in the Saugus school system, where he taught history and law. His background in education likely influenced his approach to public policy and community engagement.

In 1978, Angelo made his first attempt to enter the Massachusetts House of Representatives by challenging the long-serving incumbent, Belden Bly, for the 9th Essex District seat. Despite a determined campaign, Angelo was narrowly defeated by a margin of 318 votes. This initial setback did not deter him; rather, it set the stage for his subsequent political endeavors. When Bly chose not to seek re-election in 1980, Angelo seized the opportunity to run again. He successfully secured the Democratic nomination after competing against Lawrence Means and Christie Serino. In the general election, he emerged victorious against Republican candidate Clayton Trefry, marking the beginning of his legislative career.

Legislative service

Angelo's tenure in the Massachusetts House of Representatives was characterized by significant involvement in environmental and regulatory issues. He served two distinct terms in the legislature, during which he held influential positions, including House Chairman of the Natural Resources and Agriculture Committee from 1985 to 1996 and Chairman of the Government Regulations Committee during 1995 and 1996. His leadership in these committees underscored his commitment to addressing critical issues related to natural resources and environmental protection.

One of Angelo's notable legislative achievements was his co-authorship of the Solid Waste Law, a significant piece of legislation that mandated the installation of acid gas scrubbers on the incinerator in Saugus. This law was instrumental in initiating what would become Massachusetts' curbside recycling program, reflecting his proactive approach to waste management and environmental sustainability. Angelo's legislative efforts extended beyond waste management; he was involved in a wide range of environmental issues, including laws addressing acid rain, hazardous waste, and wildlife conservation. His work on the Massachusetts State Revolving Fund and the Cape Cod Commission further demonstrated his commitment to sustainable development and resource management.

In addition to his legislative work, Angelo chaired several special commissions focused on hazardous waste, low-level radioactive waste, and solid waste management. These roles allowed him to influence policy at a higher level and advocate for effective solutions to pressing environmental challenges. His leadership in these commissions highlighted his dedication to public health and environmental stewardship, as well as his ability to navigate complex regulatory frameworks.

Policy focus and district

Angelo's policy focus during his time in the Massachusetts House of Representatives was heavily oriented towards environmental issues, reflecting the concerns of his constituents in the 9th Essex district. His legislative initiatives aimed to address local environmental challenges, promote sustainable practices, and ensure the protection of natural resources. The district, which includes Saugus, was particularly affected by issues related to waste management and environmental health, making Angelo's work in these areas particularly relevant to his constituents.

In addition to his legislative responsibilities, Angelo's role as Town Manager of Saugus further intertwined his political and administrative careers. Appointed as the temporary Town Manager in February 1998 and later confirmed in December of the same year, he continued to serve as a state representative during this period. His dual roles allowed him to leverage his legislative knowledge to address local issues more effectively. Notably, he successfully lobbied for state and federal funds to dredge the Saugus River, a project that had been pending since the 1960s. This achievement underscored his commitment to improving local infrastructure and environmental conditions.

Angelo's tenure as Town Manager was not without controversy. In June 2003, the State Ethics Commission found that he had used his position to secure preferential treatment for a local selectman following a traffic stop. Although the Commission chose not to pursue formal action against him, the incident highlighted the complexities and challenges of public service.

Following his time in Saugus, Angelo continued his career in public administration as the Town Manager of Winsted, Connecticut, from December 2003 to November 2005. During this period, he focused on environmental cleanup efforts, particularly concerning Highland Lake. However, he resigned from this position citing health issues.

Angelo's public service journey continued when he was appointed as the Town Administrator of Atkinson, New Hampshire, in September 2008. His tenure there was brief, as he resigned in January 2009 due to personal reasons, including family considerations and the reluctance to sell his home in Massachusetts.

Throughout his career, Steven Angelo has demonstrated a commitment to public service and community engagement, with a particular focus on environmental issues and local governance. His experiences in both legislative and administrative roles have shaped his understanding of the complexities of public policy and the importance of addressing community needs.