In Farewell Speech, Wakefield's DiNocco Urges Town Unity

WAKEFIELD, MA — Town Councilor Paul DiNocco gave a lot of thanks and one plea on his way out of local government.

As Wakefield struggles to find its footing in the aftermath of the Warrior logo debate — a microcosm of the division that has overtaken most of the country — DiNocco opened his final Town Council meeting urging unity.

"The town as a whole needs to find a way to unite," he said. "There's too much angst out there right now. Too much division in my eyes. Something has to be done to unite them. I don't know what that answer is, I'm leaving that up to the council and future council to determine the best course of action to solve that problem."

DiNocco is not running for reelection to his three-year seat after winning four consecutive terms.

Town Election is April 27. Three people, including incumbent Julie Smith-Galvin, Anne Danehy and Brandon Flanagan, are vying for two three-year seats.

DiNocco thanked colleagues, residents, businesses and the town's municipal and emergency workers.

"You are the best of the best," he said.

DiNocco has lived in Wakefield since 1988, having served in numerous capacities, including the Planning Board and Master Plan Committee.

"I hope that I did well in representing the community to the best of my ability and to do them proud," he continued.

DiNocco said he'd miss Clerk Sherri Dalton most of all — she could "bring light to a black hole" — and saved a special farewell for Town Administrator Stephen Maio.

"Thanks for putting up with my B.S. for 12 years," he said.

Mike Carraggi can be reached at mike.carraggi@patch.com. Follow him on Twitter @PatchCarraggi. Subscribe to Wakefield Patch for free local news and alerts and like us on Facebook.