Endorsements

“Kathy has proven time and again that she is a dedicated, effective advocate for Burlington. Her years of service and leadership—working tirelessly across multiple city institutions—have shown her commitment to making Burlington a better place for everyone. If you believe in affordable housing, tax fairness, and a pragmatic approach to public safety, I urge you to join me in supporting Kathy.”

“Kathy pays such close attention to city issues that she gave me a call just to make sure that I understood how dialysis reimbursement works after UVMMC’s budget cuts came up at a council meeting. The institutional knowledge she will bring to the council from her various roles in service to this community will prove vital to our city government that is already stretched thin. We should not take for granted that Kathy has stepped forward yet again after shaping this city in so many ways for decades.”

“Kathy Olwell has been a trusted and unwavering presence in our community for as long as I can remember. As a committed member of the Ward One Neighborhood Planning Assembly, her insights and input have become invaluable to those of us who care deeply about Burlington’s future. Kathy’s history of service to Burlington speaks volumes. Time and again, her actions demonstrate a clear and enduring commitment to our neighborhoods and our shared well-being.

Her extensive background as a social worker brings a unique and deeply humane perspective to the challenges we face as a city. Whether addressing the housing crisis or the ongoing opioid epidemic, Kathy understands that solutions must center the dignity and humanity of those most impacted. Her experience reminds us that policy grounded in compassion and equity is not only possible but necessary for creating a thriving community.

Kathy’s years of service on the Burlington School Board further highlight her dedication to ensuring that all residents, especially our children, have the opportunity to succeed. Her leadership in education and her consistent presence at the polls during countless elections demonstrate her commitment to fostering a vibrant and engaged city.

Burlington has been fortunate to benefit from Kathy’s dedication and experience. I am certain that her leadership on the Burlington City Council will reflect the same passion and purpose she has always shown. I look forward to supporting her as she continues her tireless work to serve all of us with integrity, kindness, and a vision for a better Burlington.”

“We are excited to have Kathy Olwell stepping up to serve Burlington yet again. Kathy is exceptionally engaged in our city and knows it well. Her success establishing vital after-school and summer programs for kids and helping Burlington schools get their fair share of education funds after years of short shrift prove that Kathy gets results for all of us. Her work on the School Board and as a Youth Program Director give her the breath and depth of community knowledge and know-how that we need on the City Council now. ”

“If we are going to hold the Medical Center and UVM accountable, make record investments in affordable housing, and make our city safer - I need allies like Kathy on the City Council. Her 30+ years of institutional knowledge and proven track record of collaborating across political differences are sorely needed right now. I’m all in for Kathy this town meeting day.”

“Kathy Olwell will be a steady, mature, experienced voice for the East District on our City Council. She has lived in the neighborhood for many years, so Kathy understands both the challenges we face and the resources that can be brought to problem-solving. As a social worker and a long-time School Board member, Kathy has demonstrated both skilled listening and leadership.”

“I have been fortunate to have Kathy first as a school board member, then as a friend, and now as my city council candidate. Kathy has been listening to, learning from, and advocating for families across the East District for decades. She is empathic, smart, and experienced. We need more leaders like her, and I am thrilled to endorse her for Burlington City Council.”

“I strongly support Kathy as a candidate for the East District City Council seat. Kathy has been an active and exemplary member of this community for more than 30 years. She’s been an effective advocate for kids and families, serving on the school board and practicing as a social worker in several community organizations. She’s played a key role in creating programs responsive to the needs of families. To the council, she would bring her vast experience as an active citizen and her historical knowledge of city and neighborhood issues. She understands the experience of low and moderate income folks as well as people who are in vulnerable situations. She listens and responds thoughtfully and then takes creative action. These are essential qualities for positive community leadership.”

“We know Kathy because wherever public affairs are being discussed and debated, Kathy is there, attentive and participating. Kathy works both sides of civic life. She has an impressive record as an elected Burlington School Board member and now day-to-day engagement with her grandson’s current schooling, simply and importantly as a member of the family.
As a professional social worker, and also as a volunteer, Kathy has been central to the creation of civic programs including after-school, scholarships, youth centers, and Native American women. She knows how to get things done. Her capacity and enthusiasm are well known in this city. She has our vote.”

“For decades, Kathy has shown unwavering dedication to our children and community. Serving with her on the school board, I witnessed her courage to speak truth to power—and her wisdom to use power to create space for others to speak their truths. In these dark times, Kathy Olwell brings more light and hope to the Burlington City Council.”