Daily News Question of the Week: Why voters should choose me to be next Ward 5 councillor

Daily News of Newburyport article

Question of the Week

The Daily News of Newburyport asked me why voters should choose me to be the next Ward 5 councillor.

My full response

"We are at a critical point where we must invest to preserve the unique features that make Newburyport a great place to live. We cannot afford to do business as usual. Voters should send me to the City Council to break through the logjams and make decisions based on expert analysis. It’s time to get all those projects that are still “in process” over the finish line.

My background in civil engineering and transportation safety gives me a unique perspective. I’m trained to assess data and have years of experience investigating systemic problems through the lens of both public service and private enterprise. These skills will allow me to hold the mayor’s administration to a high standard and make sure we get the most value for our tax dollars.

Real fiscal responsibility is about more than just saying no. It’s also about due diligence and the timely approval of projects so that costs don’t rise due to delays—an issue that has already cost us in this time of high inflation. There are many outside sources of funding, and a functional city council puts Newburyport in a stronger position to secure those funds. With creativity and good faith, we can accomplish our goals while still operating within our budget.

Our most important goal must be our infrastructure, including safety along the Low and Hale Street corridors. We also need infrastructure updates to ensure clean drinking water and stormwater management. We must build a home for Newburyport Youth Services at 59 Low Street. After four years of indecision, we need to move forward to minimize cost escalation. Our kids deserve a safe place to develop into their best selves.

Ward 5 needs representation that will learn from the past and identify better ways to do things. It’s time to elect a City Council that will take decisive action to improve the quality of life for all residents."