April 9, 2026 Submitted By Gary Tondorf-Dick
The Hingham Anchor invited all candidates for the May 2 town election, whether involved in a race or not, to submit a candidate profile explaining why they are seeking election or re-election and what they consider to be the key issues/considerations related to the position they are seeking.
Dear Hingham residents, I am honored to announce my candidacy for re-election to a fifth term on the Hingham Planning Board in the Town Election on May 2, 2026. I stay committed to public service and to applying my experience as a licensed architect and Planning Board member to support thoughtful, balanced growth that strengthens our community. Since moving to Hingham in 1986, my wife Mary, our sons Dan and Dave, and I have been proud to call this town home, and we continue to value its unique character and strong sense of community.
I have more than 35 years of experience in local government, including four terms on the Planning Board. I have also served as the Planning Board’s representative to the Climate Action Commission, contributing insights from my work at MIT on sustainability, resiliency, and climate initiatives. In addition, I have served on the Hingham Historical Commission, the Historic Districts Commission, and the Liberty Plain Historic District Committee. I have been a member of the Hingham Militia since 1994, helping to keep Hingham history alive as we look forward to celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution in July.
Planning Board Experience and Initiatives
During my most recent term, I have helped Hingham meet compliance requirements under the MBTA Communities Act, contributed to drafting the Accessory Dwelling Unit bylaw to address evolving state requirements, and served as Co-Chair of the Residential Quality Standards Subcommittee. Together with the Climate Action Commission, I helped create and implement Hingham’s Climate Action Plan. The plan was approved at Town Meeting and is now being presented to Hingham residents. This work has helped position Hingham as a leader in climate action within Massachusetts.
Throughout my service, I have valued the constructive engagement of applicants, abutters, and residents in Planning Board hearings as we review applications for conformance with the Zoning Bylaw.
Goals and Objectives
If re-elected, I will continue to support responsible development that is consistent with Hingham’s proud history, unique scale, and essence. I am committed to balancing individual property rights with careful implementation of our bylaws to accommodate thoughtful advancements while preserving the special identity that makes Hingham such an attractive place to live and work.
In my continued role with the Climate Action Commission, I will focus on education and initiatives that help residents better understand and access electrification opportunities for their homes and businesses. This work will help the town reach its climate goals and aid residents in saving on their increasing energy costs.
Hingham must find reliable revenue sources to support investments in community growth and infrastructure. Consistent with the 2021 Master Plan, potential developments in the Shipyard, Downtown, and South Hingham need thorough evaluation to balance economic goals with the protection of our environmental and historical character and resources. My background as both an architect and preservationist uniquely positions me to help guide Hingham toward a sustainable future.
As a member of the Residential Quality Standards subcommittee, I will continue to study best practices that balance open space with appropriate scale and neighborhood character. It is essential that we accommodate responsible growth while preserving the Hingham’s unique identity.
I am respectfully asking for your support and vote so I may continue to serve our community on the Planning Board bringing my knowledge, experience, and commitment to every decision we face. Being a Planning Board representative on Town Boards, Commissions and Committees has helped me gain a perspective on the ongoing issues facing the town.
Hingham is a special place, defined by its special nature, history, and sense of community. My professional background and experience uniquely position me to help preserve what we value most, while attentively guiding expansion that ensures a vibrant future for all who call Hingham home.
I care deeply about Hingham. It would be an honor to continue this work on your behalf as a Planning Board member. Thank you for your time, your consideration, your commitment to the town, and your vote on May 2nd.