Issues
Affordable Housing
As many of us know, housing has become unaffordable. Specifically the issue in NH is that we have a low supply but a high demand. That is why we must look at our zoning ordinances to look at opportunities to increase density and open up spaces for new construction so that we can raise the supply and drive down prices.
Overnight Parking
Currently, overnight parking on city streets is prohibited in the City of Nashua. Whether you are parked in front of your home or on a street downtown, you will receive a $25 ticket. This flawed system has meant that those who cannot afford an apartment with a driveway or parking are effectively punished for being too poor and those living in the suburbs it has devolved into a way for neighbors to get the city involved in neighborly disputes. We must end this broken system and legalize overnight parking.
Homelessness
Currently the Board of Alderman is debating a slate of ordinances to criminalize homelessness in the city, I believe this is the wrong approach. First off, it costs more to incarcerate someone then to give them the housing they need. Second off, it leaves the individual worse off than before as they now have a criminal record and reintegrating into society will be that much harder. That is why I believe in a Housing First approach that provides individuals with the services they need to get back on their feet.
Accessible/Transparent Government
What I have heard from residents and businesses alike is that the city has been pretty inaccessible or difficult to work with, whether it is getting a permit or getting an answer to a question. I promise to help constituents when dealing with the City of Nashua so that they can get the services and answers they need in the shortest time possible. I would also like to streamline the way the city operates so that instead of being bounced around from department to department that we have a central citizen help desk which will direct people to the department they need immediately.
Commuter Rail
Commuter rail has the potential to revitalize our community with the income it could provide our local businesses and our city government. With a train stop at the Pheasant Lane Mall we could see an influx of shoppers who will drive our local economy and with a downtown stop we will be able to provide a transit option for commuters. This alongside building more dense housing around the station could create a new vibrant center for our city.
Bettering our Transit System
The Nashua Transit Center is located in our ward and serves as a hub of activity but it also has much more potential. First of all, a transit connection to the Lowell MBTA station would provide an affordable low cost transit option for commuters as we wait for, or if we are unable to get, our own MBTA commuter rail station. This alongside more frequent bus service and an investment in making a sustainable transit system will bring a much needed service to our residents
Rebalance Tax Burden
Currently, taxes on residents and small local businesses are sky high. We must work to reduce the tax burden on everyday working people and instead tax multinational corporations.
Protect Green Space
Although we should build more housing, we should also preoccupy ourselves with the protection of forests and green spaces around the city as these are becoming harder and harder to come by as the city clear cuts our forests to pave the way for monotone single-family neighborhoods. With strategic density and proper zoning we can make sure to have a beautiful city filled with green spaces.