Photo by Peter Camyre
Joe Cantalini for Wilbraham Planning Board
Thoughtful, community-centered planning that respects Wilbraham’s character and quality of life, ensuring responsible, well-informed decisions for today—and tomorrow.Join me in planning Wilbraham’s future!
Clarifying My Position on Population Density and Growth
I’ve heard real concern from voters about high-density development in Wilbraham. I want to be very clear: I do not support significantly increasing population density or changing the character of our town.
Wilbraham is a special place—defined by its natural beauty, strong sense of community, and manageable pace of life. While some change is inevitable, I believe growth should be thoughtful, limited, and aligned with the town’s existing capacity and values. We don’t need to become something we’re not—and I’ll work hard to ensure that we don’t.
Thank you for the conversations, the trust, and your vote. Polls are open until 6:30 p.m. today—please make your voice heard.
Vision & Values
Wilbraham is more than just a town—it’s a community rooted in history, open spaces, and strong connections. As we plan for the future, we must strike a careful balance between progress and preservation, guiding our town's evolution so it enhances its character rather than changes it. The goal is a vital, thriving community—not only today, but for generations to come.
Balanced & Grounded Decision-Making
Good planning means carefully considering development, resiliency, and community needs while ensuring that changes benefit both current and future residents. I am committed to fact-based, well-informed policies that uphold Wilbraham’s values and enhance our town’s long-term well-being.
Preserving Wilbraham’s Charm
Wilbraham’s charm comes from its neighborhoods, open spaces, and strong community ties. Development should complement—not compromise—what makes our town special. I will work to ensure a vibrant future, protect our town's resources, and preserve the quality of life residents cherish.
Transparent & Inclusive Governance
Strong communities thrive on open dialogue and collaboration. I believe in listening first, engaging all voices, and making decisions with transparency and accountability—so that we all have a seat at the table in shaping Wilbraham’s future.
Smart, Strategic Planning
Wilbraham’s future depends on zoning, infrastructure, and public services that foster a livable, lasting community. We need planning that supports local businesses and balanced residential opportunities for our children and new families—all while safeguarding the town’s identity and strengthening its future.
About Joe
I grew up in Wilbraham, graduated from Minnechaug, and have strong family ties to the community. I’m running for Planning Board to give back to the town that raised me—and to help guide Wilbraham’s evolution in ways that reflect what we love most while ensuring a strong, sustainable future.With a unique blend of public service, regulatory, business leadership, and scientific expertise—including early in my career at Johns Hopkins—I bring a practical, balanced approach grounded in experience, collaboration, and long-term thinking.
Education
MBA, M.A. in Chemistry, and B.S. in Biology & Chemistry
Specialized training in planning, sustainable development, compliance, and ethics
Public Service & Policy Leadership
Board Director & Vice Chair, statewide industry association — advocating for sound, balanced policy and working closely with state leaders and stakeholders
Committee Chair, Evidence-Based Policy Workgroup — convened by Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment and Department of Revenue
Member, Legislative Implementation Rulemaking Workgroup – Colorado Department of Revenue
Member, Health & Safety Advisory Committee and Sustainable Business Practices Workgroup – Denver Department of Public Health & Environment
Served in total on over 10 state and local advisory committees focusing on policy, community health, and effective decision-making
Professional & Regulatory Experience
Founder & Principal Consultant – help businesses navigate complex regulations; provide guidance on permitting, facility planning, compliance, and operations
Vice President of Manufacturing – led operations and strategic growth in a highly-regulated industry; managed teams and large-scale projects
National Compliance & Regulatory Affairs Officer – worked extensively with city departments on site planning, permitting, and code compliance across building, zoning, fire, sewer, and environmental codes
I’ve spent my career bringing people together to solve complex challenges, with a track record of making disciplined, forward-looking decisions that balance community needs with economic realities. I’d be honored to bring that same measured, collaborative approach to the Wilbraham Planning Board.
Your Input Matters!
Have a question or idea? I'd love to hear from you. Reach out below, and I’ll reply as soon as I can.
Town Election: Saturday, May 17, 2025
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To register or update your address, visit the Town Clerk’s office at Town Hall or go online at the Secretary of State’s Election Division no later than Friday, May 2, 2025.
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Press and News
Cantalini, Joseph. "Letter to the Editor." Wilbraham-Hampden Times (MA), 24 Apr. 2025, 6.
From my interview with The Reminder:
“We need to weigh the long-term impact of our decisions on residents, neighborhoods, services, and the local economy.”
“If we can preserve what makes Wilbraham special while enhancing its quality of life, vitality, resilience and livability — positioning it to thrive for generations to come — then we’ve done our job well.”
Heinonen, Sarah. "Three candidates for Planning Board on May 17 Wilbraham ballot." Reminder (East Longmeadow, MA), 8 May 2025, 10.
Thank You for Visiting
I appreciate you taking the time to learn more about my vision and experience. I’m excited about the future of Wilbraham and would be honored to have your support. Let’s keep Wilbraham strong—together!