Economic Development
Holyoke was built on land and energy incentives. Today, we need to look at the incentives that benefit the community, utilize existing resources and remove the barriers and obstacles to allow for growth. I see the potential in Holyoke and want to promote the fact that this city is affordable, environmentally friendly, ideally located and rich with history!
- I will work and support efforts to Keep Current Businesses in Holyoke
- I will work toward Marketing Our City to new businesses both large and small.
- I will work toward Appropriate Zoning that promotes growth and development.
- I will work toward more Market Rate Housing and live/work spaces in downtown.
- I will work toward building a Green Economy that can bring jobs and investment.
- I am in favor of both the Renovation and Expansion Library Project and a New Senior Center. I see both these projects as critical to development, educational opportunities and building a stronger community.
School System & Education
As a City Councilor at Large and as a resident of Holyoke, I want to have the best schools we can. I realize the important connection between good schools and economic development. As a community we have a moral obligation to work towards a 100% graduation rate to insure a prosperous future for all of our children and our city.
- I believe we need more Communication between City Council and School Committee.
- I believe we need more Parent Involvement in our children’s education.
- I believe that moving the School Department into a renovated Lawrence School is a good move. This would keep the school offices in downtown and send a positive message of Commitment to Holyoke and Fiscal Responsibility.
- I believe the Library renovation and expansion project is critical to our children’s access to information and that a New 21st Century Library can be a connector between all people in our community.
Trash
Marketing our Green Image needs to start with cleaner streets. I would like to see a better collaboration between the city and community groups willing to clean the city street. I would like to see the city start a “clean streets” program as I believe that once the city shows it cares, then the people of the city will take better care of their neighborhoods.
- I would like to see an end to plastic bags, Styrofoam packaging, and have us lead the way in the valley toward a Zero Waste Community.
- I would like More Recycling citywide too keep city trash cost down and avoid implementing trash fees.
- I would be in favor of a residential Fine for Non-Recycling.
- I would like to see Trash Cans Back in Downtown.
Building a Safe City
“Where there is more legal activity there will be less illegal activity”, are great words spoken by many on the issues of drug and violence. Safety has to be a focus for all of the elected officials of our city, along with every civic, social and private institution.
- I would like to see Bike and Foot Patrol Officers in downtown and I would like to see more engagement with officers and the community.
- I would encourage Better Enforcement of pedestrian and vehicle traffic in downtown, as well as enforcing current fines and ordinances.
- I believe there could be better utilization of Effective and Affordable Crime Fighting Tools such as increased lighting and speed controls.
- I support a Crime Watch Program in every neighborhood, as a way for citizens to become involved and as a way to build community while keeping our streets safe.
Our City
“Preparing Holyoke for the 21st Century” is not just a campaign slogan, it is a reality. We need to look ahead to get our “Gateway City” on the right track to encourage growth, leadership and offer safe, inviting communities. Bringing all people and all ideas to the table for debate is the only way to move forward, to be inclusive and to build the city that we want.
- I support the Charter Review and believe all aspects of how we govern should be reviewed and discussed.
- I support the development of the High-Speed Rail connecting New York, Connecticut and Vermont to Western Massachusetts, and believe this can be one key in creating Economic Growth for Holyoke and the Pioneer Valley.
- I support a more Transparent and Accessible Government, that listens to and answers to the residents of Holyoke.
