By Theresa Knapp 

The Town of Ashland has welcomed Jasmin Farinacci as its new Director of Planning and Economic Development. 

Farinacci, who started in June, has more than 11 years of experience in municipal work in Bridgewater, Raynham, Lancaster, and most recently in Dover as its Town Planner. 

She said she looks forward to helping the town maintain its affordable housing after it meets its state-mandated 10%, and hopes to help Ashland businesses thrive. 

She told the Select Board at its July 16 meeting, “I think our biggest challenge is traffic…We have to find a way to bring the people here. The businesses are here, we need them to thrive here.” 

Town Manager Michael Herbert noted the town received more than 20 applications for the position, interviewed five finalists, and Farinacci “rose to the top.”