Two Months In
Good morning Springfield!
Over the last two weeks I have met with and introduced myself to a number of Springfield organizations to learn about their vision for Springfield. To represent the entire city as an At Large Councilor, you must listen to the entire city.
On Thursday, March 14th I attended a joint meeting of the Old Hill & Upper Hill Neighborhood / Resident Councils. The meeting was a continuation of a discussion regarding the Knox Building re-development into housing. The meeting afforded local residents the opportunity to speak with First Resource Development Co. developer Gordon Pulsifer. There were reservations about awarding the Special Permit due to a breakdown in communication between First Resource and the two councils, so I was pleased to see the two commit to ongoing conversations.
Photo Credit: Patrick Johnson, Masslive.com / The Republican
On Wednesday, March 24th I met with staff of the New North Citizens Council (NNCC), including Executive Director Maria Ligus, COO Jose Claudio, and Springfield School Committee Member and Ward 1 City Council candidate Maria Perez. NNCC has a proud tradition of supporting the Brightwood and Memorial Height neighborhoods which make up the North End of Springfield. During the meeting I discussed my priorities for Springfield - growing economic development, supporting public safety while improving relations, protecting our environment, and improving the quality of life for residents. I also learned more about an exciting plan to redevelop the old Chestnut Middle School property into a new community center, along with additional space for medical facilities and other services. After my meeting, I visited Plainfield Street to view the new Brightwood-Lincoln school under construction!
On Saturday, March 27th, I joined the Indian Orchard Citizens Council (IOCC) in support of their Pandemic Easter Basket giveaway event. IOCC partnered with CJ’s Towing and other community organizations to provide Easter baskets for residents in need. I also had the opportunity to introduce myself to Council President Zaida Govan and Council Board Member Lisa Thompson, both of whom are running for the Ward 8 City Council Seat. During my time meeting residents, we talked about the need for more economic development in Indian Orchard. Residing close to Ludlow and with its’ own Main Street, residents are used to advocating for everything that they have. I look forward to working with residents and the IOCC on projects to expand employment opportunities and improve the quality of life in the neighborhood.
Finally, on Tuesday, March 30th I met with Shannon Mumblo, Executive Director of Christina’s House. The mission of Christina’s House is to provide community and vocational services for families who are recently removed from substance and domestic abuse and are committed to building an independent life for themselves. Families stay with the program for approximately 18 months, during which time they build the skills needed to live healthy, independent lives. During our meeting, we discussed the need for the City Council to support social service non-profits, while acknowledging a greater need for these services to be spread out throughout the city. We also discussed the opportunity for the Historic Commission to work with non-profits who want to maintain the dignity of historic properties but may not have the financial means or tax status needed to apply for preservation grants. The key is balance.
With Shannon Mumblo, Executive Director, Christina’s House
As I reflect on the first two months of this campaign, I think about the hundreds of residents and workers that I’ve met, and the stories, suggestions, and experiences they’ve shared. Springfield is a diverse and open community, but the preservation of our community requires constant care. The speak out against Anti-Asian hate crimes shows Springfield at our best. While some might argue that the speak out against gun violence in McKnight shows how divided we are, I believe these serious and sometimes tense public debates are needed. We are all united in our desire for a safer Springfield, and only through open and honest discussion will we achieve it.
As the weather improves and as the rate of COVID-19 vaccines grows, there will be more opportunities to promote this campaign outdoors, safely. Please sign up to volunteer to host a Coffee with the Candidate or Spring BBQ with friends and family. If you’re able, please contribute what you can to elect an independent voice for Springfield.