About Us
Our Mission Statement:
“The Reading Observer provides timely, accurate news on local elections, government, and key topics to keep the community informed and engaged. We are committed to factual, verifiable reporting, prioritizing transparency and accountability.”
Meet the Team
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FounderI hold a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s degree in Fire Protection Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) in Worcester, Massachusetts. WPI’s project-based curriculum fostered my ability to work with various disciplines, conduct in-depth research, and communicate complex ideas effectively. As the primary writer and editor for my junior and senior year Qualifying Projects, I developed strong analytical and technical writing skills—an experience that has carried into my professional and community work.
For nine years, I worked as a code consultant in the fire protection engineering field, where I wrote technical reports, engineering judgements, and variance requests for compliance with building, life safety, and accessibility codes. I also developed training materials and organizational tools to improve efficiency and onboarding for new employees.
Since moving to Reading, I have become deeply involved in local politics and community advocacy. I ran two campaigns for Select Board in 2024, which gave me valuable insight into local governance and the need for greater civic engagement. I am an active member of Partners and Allies for Inclusive Reading (PAIR) through the Office of Equity and Social Justice (OESJ) and a member of CATO: The Coalition of Us, a Reading-based nonprofit. I regularly attend town meetings, board discussions, and community events to stay informed, advocate for inclusivity, and celebrate the rich arts and culture of the area.
Through my professional and civic experiences, I have developed a strong commitment to transparency, collaboration, and community engagement—all of which drive my ongoing efforts to make a positive impact in Reading.
I am currently a Town Meeting Member for Precinct 2 and sit on various boards and committees.
Pictured: Taylor Gregory
Other Contributors
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Andrew is a Reading resident and a current Town Meeting Member and is also a member of the Board of Library Trustees, who is passionate about supporting the community. As a financial contributor, Andrew has helped sustain this project and also played a key role in developing the website. His dedication and support help keep this resource available to all.
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Sarah-Paul is a Reading parent and graphic designer who played a key role in bringing our organization's logo to life. Their creativity and expertise helped design our logo, ensuring it reflects our mission and values. Beyond design, Sarah-Paul is an active member of the community and passionate about making a positive impact on Reading.
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Barry is a long-time Reading resident and former Select Board member with a deep commitment to the community. An award winning fine art photographer, Barry has captured the beauty of Reading through his lens, and his stunning photos are proudly displayed on our website. His work reflects both his artistic talent and his love for the town.
Our Values
Transparency
We are open about our sources, methods, and any corrections we make.
Diversity & Inclusion
We amplify diverse voices and perspectives in our reporting.
Public Interest
We serve our readers by covering stories that matter to their communities.
Accountability
We take responsibility for our reporting and promptly correct any errors.
Truth & Accuracy
We prioritize factual, well-researched, and verifiable reporting.
Community Engagement
We foster dialogue and listen to the people we serve.
Allyship
We stand in solidarity with marginalized communities, using our platform to elevate their stories and advocate for equity.
Courage & Integrity
We pursue the truth, even when it is challenging or unpopular.
Ethical Journalism
We uphold the highest ethical standards in our storytelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Taylor Gregory owns and is the primary contributor to the platform. The Reading Observer also accepts submissions from members of the community as contributing articles or as Letters to the Editor.
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No, we are independent from the Town of Reading and other organizations in Reading. We work with organizations to notify the community of upcoming events and celebrate local achievements.
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The Gregory family funds the operating costs of The Reading Observer.
Photo By: Barry Berman
Land Acknowledgement
A land acknowledgement is a statement that recognizes and respects the Indigenous people who originally inhabited the land where we now live and work. At The Reading Observer, this acknowledgment aligns with our mission and core values of accountability and allyship. Our team has researched the history of the land that the Town of Reading occupies, and we share it with you to honor the truth of Indigenous an American history.
The Reading Observer operates on the seized ancestral lands of the Pawtucket people, whose territory, now known as Lynn, once stretched from the Piscataqua River in New Hampshire down to the Charles River. The Massachusett tribe, descendants of the original inhabitants, were among the first Indigenous peoples encountered by English settlers in what is now the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. We encourage everyone to learn more about the indigenous communities who have called this land home for generations.
— Land acknowledgement statement