About Ken Parker

Ken, Kelly and Benjamin Parker - Photo by Rick Bern Photography

Newton Alderman Ken Parker has a 18-year history as a voice for positive change in Newton, and a lifetime of dedicated service to the city in which he was raised.

First elected to public office at the age of 21, Ken has proven himself to be a collaborative, innovative and creative leader. He spearheaded the passage of Smoke Free Newton, breakthrough public health legislation which served as an example for public smoking restrictions in communities nationwide; improved City investment and management practices; improved Newton’s environment through recycling, public transportation and open space expansion; and served as a tireless advocate for public education.

As an Alderman, Ken Parker:

• Prepared a comprehensive vision and plan for reinventing local government in Newton, A Blueprint for Newton’s Future, in partnership with over 100 Newton residents
• Saved Newton taxpayers $20 million and counting by identifying and implementing cost-saving and new revenue measures.
• Convened the Finance and Management Working Group which recommended management reforms many of which were endorsed by the Blue Ribbon Commission, several of which were subsequently adopted by the City of Newton
• Led the successful effort to expand the public beach at Crystal Lake
• Fought successfully to restore cuts in hours at Newton’s main library and branch libraries
• Chaired the Angino Farm Subcommittee that developed an ordinance with financial controls and sound management practices for the successful operation of Newton’s last working farm

In addition to his public service, Ken Parker brings 15 years of management experience as a business executive and entrepreneur. Ken is the founder and president of Global Business Information Strategies, a publishing company focused on tax and legal issues for international businesses. Prior to serving in this role, Ken worked for more than a decade as director of operations for an international publishing company. Ken's extensive experience managing people and resources in the private sector have helped him to save the City of Newton millions of dollars. As Mayor, Ken will be able to bring his management skills to bear to make Newton's government more efficient and effective at delivering quality services to Newton residents.

Ken is also an avid hiker and backpacker. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst where he met his wife, Kelly Heffernan. Ken and Kelly were married in Newton in 1992. They live in Newton Highlands with their son, Benjamin Daniel Parker.