I’m focused on connecting the Medford community. Connection is belonging. Connection is accessibility. Connection is equity and equality. Connection is a thriving environment.
Climate and Sustainability
I’m an outdoor enthusiast. As an avid hiker in the Middlesex Fells Reservation and nature walker along the trails of the Mystic River State Reservation, I understand the impact of climate change upon Medford. I will focus on:
- Promoting greener spaces throughout the city
- Increasing tree canopy to prevent heat islands and improve air quality
- Utilizing the stormwater management enterprise fund to reduce flooding and provide safe streets
- Endorsing composting and pay as you throw practices that reduce waste
- Eliminating litter along streets/sidewalks, particularly main thoroughfares
Transportation
I’m a frequent MBTA commuter. Whether traveling into the office or going into Boston for an event, I rely on public transit to reach my destination. As a Wellington area resident, I’m grateful for easy access to transportation, but know that many residents don’t experience the same convenience. I’m committed to expanding transportation access by:
- Advocating for the connection of MBTA networks throughout the city and the creation of a central T hub accessible to all Medford residents
- Supporting the addition of high frequency bus routes that provide access to all neighborhoods
- Implementing more sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes for residents on foot or bike
- Filling potholes and repaving the roads to reduce vehicle damage and accidents
- Building additional EV charging stations across Medford
Affordable Housing
I’m a current homeowner in Medford and previous tenant across the Greater Boston area. I understand the continual rise of rental prices and real estate within the city. In Medford, less than 5% of single family homes are considered affordable. In addition to low vacancy rates, most rental and multifamily properties are located in the southernmost neighborhoods. These areas are near major roads and vulnerable to flooding. Current zoning regulations impact multifamily and mixed-use development. I’m dedicated to the following:
- Increasing the percentage of affordable housing units
- Adding new and affordable senior housing
- Utilizing the affordable housing trust to pool community resources and focus on greater mixed-use development as well as climate resilient neighborhoods
- Establishing an Office of Housing Stability that educates and aids residents on the Affordable Housing development process
- Reforming zoning laws that exclude access to low and middle income residents
- Creating an eviction moratorium policy so that both protects residents in case of missing monthly rent payments and protects small landlords from severe financial losses
- Increasing rental and mortgage assistance
Economic Justice
With inflation high and wages stagnant, I feel the economic effects of that money when filling up at the gas station or checking out at the grocery store. I know the importance of a livable wage with adequate benefits. I will work hard to ensure a secure economy by:
- Supporting unions and labor workers
- Advocating for local businesses to join our community and treat their employees well
- Fighting for a $20/hour minimum wage with an eventual $20/hour minimum wage
- Providing increased social service organizations and community health organizations so that all residents can stay healthy and continue to work
- Championing food security throughout the city
Acceptance and Accessibility
I recognize that every Medford resident has a unique identity. I’m committed to cultivating a Medford in which everyone feels safe and has access to the resources necessary to thrive. I will focus on the following:
- Cultivating an environment where evert resident, no matter their race, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or disability, feels heard and included
- Adding language accessibility materials to the city website and to city literature
- Collaborating with the Medford Housing Authority, the Medford Senior Center, and city facilities to ensure that public spaces are accessible to all residents
- Spearheading an inclusive government and charter reform
- Continuing virtual access to public meetings
- Expanding efforts to diversify municipal and school staff
- Increasing arts and culture budget and city-wide festivals
- Elevating more Black, Asian, and Indigenous voices in community conversations
- Improving community safety by meeting people’s basic needs and expanding community resources
- Creating more educational trainings that are accessible to all constituents
- Supporting safe practices and policies within Medford schools
Education
I’m a learner who benefitted from an Individualized Education Plan. I know that personalized teaching and development helps all Medford students successfully grasp material. I’m committed to creating a safe environment for both students and teachers. I will focus on the following:
- Advocating for updated facilities equipped with resources and technology for all to thrive
- Increasing training resources accessible to teachers
- Providing a higher salary for teachers and school staff
- Adding mental health resources and dedicated counselors for students
- Creating full and equitable funding for students and for the Medford Family Network
- Eliminating all extracurricular fees to promote equitable opportunities
- Improving access to ESL and ASL resources
- Focusing on disability learning support in our schools
- Extending hours for daycare, Pre-K, and Kindergarten