Summary

Hello! My name is Dionysios Kaskarelis, but most people know me as "Dion". It's an honor to step forward as a candidate for Councilor-at-large in Melrose. I am a husband, father, homeowner, and proud Greek-American. I’m also an immigrant who became a U.S. citizen on July 31, 2025 (no, this is not a typo). While pulling papers only two weeks later is probably a record, for me it's a natural step to give back to the community that supported me. My wife, Gloria, and I moved from Jamaica Plain to Melrose in May 2023 together with our son Leo, now twenty months old, and our senior dog, Gustavo.

Growing up in a foreign service family, I lived in 9 countries across Europe and the U.S by the age of 24. Not only did I witness major events such as the collapse of the Berlin Wall and 9-11, and understood the importance that diplomacy plays to secure peace, but I also gained a global perspective, an openness to diversity, and the ability to communicate across differences. My upbringing was also influenced by Greek culture which places a strong emphasis on eleftheria (freedom), demokratia (democracy), filotimo (honor), and filoxenia (hospitality). These are the values I want to bring to City Hall.

 When my wife Gloria and I learned we were expecting, we began searching for a community with strong schools, reliable services, and solid infrastructure. Though new to Melrose, one visit won us over. From the moment we arrived, our neighbors welcomed us with warmth and kindness. Watching our children play together is what makes Melrose truly feel like home. 

I'm running because I love Melrose. I am invested in Melrose for the long term, and I want to see the city thrive. I want to use the position of city councilor as a platform to give residents a voice and the ability to shape the future of our city. I believe in the power of government: going back to ancient Greek times, democracy literally translates from demos (people) and kratos (state). It’s government of the people, by the people, for the people.

Shortly after our arrival, the city began to experience financial challenges leading to budgetary cuts of $6 million from schools and essential services. Due to my financial background, I naturally gravitated towards dialogues about the issues. While I haven’t held an official role with the city, I’m regularly engaged in civic matters—through conversations with fellow residents, Council representatives, and Mayor Jen as well as advocating for and against local initiatives. That’s what inspired me to run now.

I want to build on our successes and commit to a city that is based on a common vision, collaboration and partnership, transparency and inclusion, with fresh and forward-planning solutions that reflect the needs of every Melrosian.