Linda O’Connell will be honored at Build The Dream
Linda O’Connell will receive Opening Doors to Affordable Housing Award
Since 2009, the "Opening Doors to Affordable Housing Award" has recognized the dedication and commitment of an Andover community member to the cause of affordable housing. This year, we are honored to present this award to Linda A. O’Connell, a staunch advocate and tireless worker for affordable housing in our community.
Dedication to Affordable Housing Initiatives
Linda has been a resident of Andover and a pivotal member of Andover’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund since its inception in 2005, assuming the role of chairperson since 2009. The primary mission of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund is to provide for the creation, preservation, and retention of affordable housing for low- and moderate-income households. Linda joined the newly formed volunteer board after expressing her desire to give back to the town and become more involved in local activities, a desire she shared with then town manager Buzz Stapczynski.
Linda feels a strong passion about the need for affordable housing, and despite her discomfort with public speaking, she frequently addresses the Select Board and Zoning Board to advocate for affordable housing issues. Linda continually enhances her understanding of the subject and knowledge base with classes and courses about Fair Housing Laws and affordable housing.
Linda’s dedication extends beyond the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, as she is actively engaged with the Andover Housing Coalition, providing needed support for this newly formed organization to develop strategies to advocate for housing in Andover and further support the development of affordable housing
Importance of Ongoing Dialogue
Linda has noted that, despite the efforts of many communities, the need for affordable housing and opposition to it have only increased in recent years. She emphasizes the importance of ongoing dialogue about the need for affordable housing and the benefits it brings to the entire community.
As Linda finds herself winding down her “day job” of practicing law, she is transitioning into the wellness area by becoming a certified mindfulness teacher. Alongside her husband, she enjoys traveling to Colorado to visit family.
Thank you, Linda, for your unwavering hard work and dedication to “Opening Doors to Affordable Housing,” and for enhancing the economic diversity and vitality of Andover. Your efforts have made a significant impact, and your commitment continues to inspire us all.
