Priorities
City Services
Cities are complicated, with many moving parts and needs that must be met —now and in the future. Northampton has over 25 city departments with people working diligently to keep our community running well. Each one depends on sufficient funding from the budget. I will work on behalf of all city workers to fund our city services with the whole city in mind.
Economic Development
Prior generations did the planning, building, and preservation in a way that has given us so many opportunities. We owe it to the
Northampton of the past and the future to continue this work in a collaborative and supportive way. I support a Yes/And approach to economic development, not Either/Or: the more our city has to offer, the more people will spend their time and money here.
Join me in promoting our city, shopping locally—and going out for ice cream as often as possible!
Housing
Demographics are changing, and our housing options must, too. Families are having fewer children, more people are working from home, fewer people are choosing to own a car, and rents are outpacing incomes. Affordability, accessibility, and walkability need to be a priority, and I will push for more housing in proximity to our two urban downtowns in Northampton and Florence.
The Arts
Named one of America’s Best Small Arts Towns, Northampton has a long and rich history of writers and artists, makers and musicians, museums and galleries, fairs and festivals, performance spaces and public art. Arts Night Out on the second Friday of every month and other events throughout the calendar year celebrate creativity and community. It’s essential that we support the arts because the arts support the city.
Picture Main Street
Main Street redesign will revitalize and make downtown safer for drivers, cyclists,
and pedestrians while supporting businesses and contributing to a healthier community.
This project is the result of years of planning, and reflects the values of our community. It is a plan that will reinvigorate downtown, and make life better for all of us. Wider sidewalks and shorter crosswalks will make walking around town a fabulous experience. New trees in larger soil bases will result in healthier trees with big, welcoming canopies. Separated bike lanes will benefit cyclists of all ages and abilities. Designated bus stops will benefit people using public transportation. Dedicated locations for deliveries will benefit businesses and drivers. Defined lanes will make traffic safer while moving vehicles more efficiently. Outdoor dining areas, live music performance space and more seating will enhance the vibrancy on Main Street.
Having a safe place to be outside, in the city, where you can walk, relax and be in community is crucial to a successful downtown. I support the Picture Main Street project which will make downtown Northampton a better place to be for everyone.
