Ian McLean has been a Smithfield resident for more than twelve years, choosing the town for its strong schools, abundant green spaces, and convenient access to Providence and Boston. Over time, what began as a practical decision became a deeply rooted connection — Ian and his wife have built their life here, raising their two children in the Highview–Hilldale neighborhood and becoming active members of the community.
“We moved for the schools; we stay for the people.”
– Ian McLean
Ian and his wife have been together for twenty‑six years and are approaching their eighteenth wedding anniversary. Their children, Dylan and Paige, attend Smithfield Public Schools, where the family is regularly involved in school activities, PTO events, and community traditions.
Community Involvement
Ian is an active volunteer in youth sports, coaching for the Smithfield Girls Softball League Rec program and Rhode Island Storm softball teams. He enjoys watching young athletes grow in skill and confidence, and he values the opportunity to support families across the community. In the Smithfield school system, Ian volunteers with the PTO to help coordinate events and assist during school activities — including the annual field day, where he can usually be found running the dunk tank and trying not to get sunburned.
Municipal Experience
For the past two years, Ian has served on the Town Council–appointed Budget and Financial Review Board, taking on the role of Chair in recent months. Through this work, he has developed a detailed understanding of Smithfield’s financial operations and helped guide the board through the development of the town’s first balanced budget in several years. Ian regularly attends or watches Town Council meetings and follows the work of specialty boards to stay informed about ongoing issues and operations.
Approach to Public Service
Ian’s interest in municipal work began with a desire to better understand how Smithfield invests in its schools and how tax dollars are allocated. Over time, he gained a broader appreciation for the many perspectives and responsibilities involved in running a town. He values clarity, transparency, and open participation, believing that an informed community is a stronger community.
Ian is often described as level‑headed and rational, especially in charged moments. He strives to build bridges between differing viewpoints, helping people understand one another and find common ground. He believes that feedback is a gift and that every voice has value.
His decision‑making is guided by three core principles:
Data‑driven Evaluation – ground decisions in clear information, measurable results, and objective analysis
Accountability for actions – own the decisions you make, provide transparancy to the process, take responsibility for the outcomes
Integrity – doing the right thing even when no one is looking
To Ian, responsible stewardship means treating town resources with the same care and scrutiny as personal finances, ensuring that every dollar spent reflects trust from the residents who provided it.
Personal Interests
Outside of public service, Ian enjoys running early in the morning, traveling with his family, and supporting his children in their various activities — whether coaching on the field or cheering from the sidelines. Time spent together, experiencing new places and perspectives, is what he values most.
A Long‑Term Commitment to Smithfield
Although Ian did not grow up in Smithfield, his children are growing up here — and he plans to retire here many years from now. He is committed to helping the town retain its character while supporting the people who make Smithfield what it is. Ian believes strongly in non‑partisan community engagement and often says, “We are all Smithfield.”
