Aerial view of Everett at sunset, showing a dense neighborhood of homes, commercial buildings, and roads stretching toward the horizon. The sky glows with pink and orange hues beneath dark clouds, while streetlights and parking lots begin to illuminate the city below.
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Building Everett’s Future: The First 60 Days

By March 23, 2026No Comments

In his first 60 days in office, Mayor Robert Van Campen says his administration has focused on stabilizing city operations, strengthening leadership and laying the groundwork for long-term progress across Everett.

“This has been about getting to work right away,” said Mayor Van Campen. “Taking a hard look at where we are, addressing urgent needs, and making sure we have the right people and plans in place.”

Strengthening Leadership and Representation

One of the first priorities was building out a strong leadership team and bringing new energy into city government.

That includes assembling a senior leadership team and making key appointments to boards and commissions, with an emphasis on bringing in new perspectives and reengaging residents in local decision-making.

The administration also oversaw two historic promotions within the Everett Police Department, elevating the department’s first Black Sergeant and first female Lieutenant.

“Our leadership should reflect the community we serve,” Van Campen said. “These promotions matter and they send a clear message about who has a seat at the table in Everett.”

Chief Paul Strong, Lieutenant Heather Dupont and Mayor Robert Van Campen stand in front of the City of Everett seal on a tan wall and American flag on a stand in the background. The officers are wearing their traditional police wear while the mayor is wearing a suit and tie.
Chief Paul Strong, Sergeant Eric Williamson and Mayor Robert Van Campen stand in front of the City of Everett seal on a tan wall and American flag on a stand in the background. The officers are wearing their traditional police wear while the mayor is wearing a suit and tie.
Historic three-story brick building of the former Everett High School with large windows, decorative columns, and a central arched entrance. A small landscaped lawn, young tree, and fire hydrant sit in front along a city street with parked cars under a cloudy sky.
Front view of Pope John High School, a mid-century brick building with large grid-style windows, partially shaded by tall trees. An open paved schoolyard with a few traffic cones and a bench sits in the foreground, with neighboring houses visible in the background on a sunny day.

Addressing School and Facility Needs

The administration has also begun tackling long-standing challenges related to school overcrowding and aging facilities.

City officials are actively working with Everett Public Schools to explore options for a new high school and the potential development of a middle school to help address capacity issues.

In the meantime, the City has committed $3.5 million in ARPA funding to stabilize and improve the former Everett High School building.

“We are taking a practical approach,” said Chief Development Officer Monica Lamboy. “That means preserving and improving the assets we already have, while continuing the conversation about building new classrooms for the future.”

The City is also evaluating the condition and potential future use of other properties, including the Pope John facility, and has launched a broader space needs analysis to guide long-term planning.

Restoring Financial Oversight and Accountability

Behind the scenes, the administration has been conducting a comprehensive review of city finances, including ARPA funding and grant allocations.

Officials say the goal is to ensure transparency, accountability, and that all funding is being used effectively and in alignment with its intended purpose.

“We’re taking a close look at every dollar,” Van Campen said. “Residents deserve to know that public funds are being spent responsibly and in ways that directly benefit the community.”

This work will also inform the development of the City’s upcoming budget and capital improvement planning.

Everett City Hall, a modern three-story building with a gray-and-white facade and rows of large windows, viewed from across the street. A red awning marks the main entrance, with landscaped greenery, trees, and an American flag on a lamppost along the sidewalk on a sunny day.

Investing in Neighborhoods and Infrastructure

Early investments are also being made in public spaces and infrastructure.

The City has approved funding for improvements at the Cpl. Arthur Nelson playground, a $1.2 million project aimed at enhancing recreational space for Everett families.

In addition, departments are working collaboratively to prioritize infrastructure improvements, including roadwork and water and sewer upgrades, to ensure projects are coordinated and maximize available funding.

Cpl. Arthur Nelson Playground featuring a colorful play structure with slides, climbing areas, and palm tree–shaped posts. A blue-painted hopscotch court sits in the foreground, with swings, benches, and surrounding trees and homes visible under a clear sky.
Mayor Robert Van Campen stands alongside Inspector General Jeffrey Shapiro with an American flag on a pole in the background between them.

Building Regional Partnerships

The administration has also focused on rebuilding and strengthening relationships with key regional and state partners, including the MBTA, state leadership, and planning organizations.

These efforts are expected to play a key role in advancing future transportation and development opportunities for Everett, including continued advocacy around commuter rail access.

“Strong partnerships are critical to Everett’s success,” Van Campen said. “We’re making sure our city has a voice in the decisions that impact our future.”

Looking Ahead

While the first 60 days have focused on assessment and foundational work, Mayor Van Campen says the work is just beginning.

“We’ve spent these first two months stabilizing, listening, and setting priorities,” he said. “Now we’re ready to build on that foundation and keep moving Everett forward.”