Issues

Transportation

Northampton should be safe and easy to get around. Accessible sidewalks invite and encourage neighbors to be outside and connect, and promote movement of all kinds. Separate and clearly marked bike lanes are safer for all. Effective traffic calming strategies make our streets safer. I also support the expansion of public transportation.

Communication and promotion are important for enjoyable travel. When people know that construction is scheduled or in progress, they can plan their trips through town and feel upbeat about work being done.

Picture A Pioneer Valley Transit Authority bus comes down the hill on West Street in Northampton, running on the Blue-43 line.

Housing

Photo of a kitchen in an apartment. Photo by Jarmalok.

I will advocate for any efforts to improve conditions for unhoused individuals and families.

I know that this issue is complex, and that grants and funding sources are in peril at this time, but stable and affordable housing for all is a priority for me.

I support the thoughtful addition of housing in existing neighborhoods. We have a housing shortage. A great way to address the need while decreasing car dependence is to build closer to downtown. I think of “thoughtful” as respecting natural surroundings, retaining the rural atmosphere of our town as much as possible, and involvement and communication with the neighbors involved. I will also support ongoing efforts to address the cost of renting in Northampton.

Picture Main Street

I support the Picture Main Street project and the efforts to address questions and concerns of our business community.
The Pardon Our Progress (P.O.P.) effort is a creative and proactive answer to this issue. PMS is an exciting upgrade for our downtown, a smart and necessary safety design, and the infrastructure work is needed.

Schools

Photo of 3 students working on math at a smartboard.

I am a strong supporter of public schools.
However, state funding and charter school funding formulas are woefully inadequate and inequitable. I will continue to advocate for a reformulation of state funding formulas. I know that teachers must have the resources that they need to teach effectively. At the same time, we must manage our city budget in a sustainable way, with an eye to the whole community.