Mission & Values Statement
Developed by the
Board of Selectmen, Town Manager, and Town Department Heads
Adopted by the Board of Selectmen on October 6, 2003
The mission of the Town of Andover is to ensure the safety, education, and well-being of the community; to be a leader in the delivery of efficient and effective quality services that respond to community needs; to promote the continuous improvement of staff skills and performance; to encourage an environment of trust; to respect cultural and economic diversity; and to preserve the historic character of the community.
The Board of Selectmen, as the chief policy makers for the Town of Andover, Massachusetts, will provide leadership in advancing the following primary and supporting values:
Value 1. Ensure the safety, education, and well-being of the community
1.1 Protect the safety of persons and property
1.2 Maintain the high quality of education for all
1.3 Maintain the Town's infrastructure
1.4 Promote public health programs and awareness
1.5 Manage the impact of non-municipal public utilities
1.6 Support human/community services
1.7 Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements
1.8 Identify and promote economic opportunities
Value 2. Be a leader in the delivery of efficient and effective quality services
that respond to community needs
2.1 Deliver innovative municipal services
2.2 Encourage cost saving initiatives
2.3 Assess and prioritize community needs
2.4 Maintain the Town's "Aaa" bond rating
Value 3. Promote the continuous improvement of staff skills and performance
3.1 Recruit, develop, and retain a highly skilled workforce
3.2 Promote and recognize municipal professionalism
3.3 Measure, evaluate, and improve performance
Value 4. Encourage an environment of trust and honesty
4.1 Uphold high ethical standards
4.2 Value teamwork and cooperation
4.3 Promote open communication with the public
4.4 Solicit citizen participation
4.5 Recognize the outstanding contributions of citizens
Value 5. Respect cultural and economic diversity
5.1 Promote diversity in the workforce and community
5.2 Provide services that are accessible, fair, and equitable
5.3 Support housing alternatives
Value 6. Preserve the historic character of the community
6.1 Celebrate Andover's unique heritage
6.2 Protect and acquire open space