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 and currently serves as the Director of Housing and Development for the City of Fitchburg, a position she has held since June 2023. She leads initiatives that support housing growth, economic development, and community revitalization.

She previously worked as Economic Development Manager for the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation and as Economic Development Coordinator for the City of Gardner, and brings over 18 years of experience in business banking.

Maribel is a dedicated advocate for small businesses, particularly Latino, minority, and women-owned businesses.

Brian Lipomi | Member

Chuck Siomos | Member

A devoted family man deeply rooted in the community, Chuck was born and raised in Fitchburg and attended Fitchburg Public Schools before continuing on to Fitchburg State College and later Western New England College, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement. He began his career at Montachusett Technical High School in the early 1990s, quickly earning a reputation as a problem solver—one that carried through his 30-year career as a Fitchburg police officer. Alongside his public service, Chuck successfully owned and operated a local family business for three decades. He brings to the FRA a unique blend of experience as a police officer, small business owner, and landlord of more than 25 years, all grounded in a commitment to improving quality of life for Fitchburg residents.