The FRA is made up of five (5) members, four (4) of whom are selected by the Mayor and one (1) by the Governor. The FRA meets every third Wednesday at 8:00 am at 166 Boulder Drive, Suite 104. The FRA is staffed by an Executive Director, Facilities Manager and Business Administrator.
Meet the Board
Joseph Bowen | Chair / Gubernatorial Appointee
Joe Bowen has called Fitchburg home since 2002, dedicating himself to the city through roles such as Chair of the Fitchburg Cultural Council, co-founder of the NewVue Steward program, and former President of the Fitchburg Cultural Alliance. A champion of downtown revitalization, he helped reactivate Mill Street, establish Main Street Studios and is currently working to launch a Downtown Cultural District—while consistently promoting events that bring people together. With an MBA from Fitchburg State and a Certificate in Business Strategy & Innovation from MIT, Joe blends public and private sector experience to lead with creativity and purpose. He previously owned and operated a chain of theatres and now serves as an IT Director for a global cybersecurity firm. Joe lives in Fitchburg with his family and continues to volunteer his time to initiatives that strengthen the community.
Charles Caron | Vice Chair
Charles Caron, Fitchburg native Local business owner.
Manager, Real Estate Professional, Maker
Hoping my leveraging of a solid academic, real world business practices, real estate, and engineering background helps our community develop a better Fitchburg.
Maribel Cruz | Treasurer
Maribel Cruz was born and raised in Fitchburg. She works as the Economic Development Manager for the North Central Massachusetts Development Corp. an arm the NCM Chamber of Commerce. Previously, she was the Economic Development Coordinator for the City of Gardner and has an 18 year history in business banking. Maribel is an advocate for small business with a focus on Latin / Minority and women-owned businesses.
Laura Bayless, PhD | Member
Laura Bayless moved to the City of Fitchburg in 2017 when she joined Fitchburg State University as the Vice President for Student Affairs. One of the things that impressed her about Fitchburg State was the university’s active and positive collaboration with the City of Fitchburg, and she loves that her role on the FRA Board is a piece of that commitment. She is a frequent presenter, consultant, and podcaster. Laura lives in Fitchburg with her husband and an evolving number of her five stepchildren and their friends.
Vacant | Member
