Daily News Candidate Profile
Harman wants to continue serving
By Matt Petry | mpetry@northofboston.com Sep 25, 2025Editor’s note: The following story is part of a series profiling those running for Newburyport City Council this fall.
NEWBURYPORT — Looking to make the pivot from Ward 4 to at-large city councilor, Ben Harman is one of seven candidates vying for five at-large seats in the Nov. 4 election.
“I’m running for an at-large seat on the City Council because Newburyport is strongest when we focus on solving problems, not scoring points. In my first term representing Ward 4, I’ve worked to be a thoughtful, collaborative leader who listens and gets things done,” Harman said.
Harman, 43, is joined by incumbents Ed Cameron, Heather Shand, Afroz Khan and Mark Wright as well as Prospect Street resident Rani Eng and School Committee member Sarah Hall.
The High Street resident lives with his husband, Mark Ferrandini, and their dog, Wally.
Asked about his relevant experience, Harman said he has served on multiple committees, including Budget & Finance, Planning & Development, Community Services, Traffic Safety Advisory and ARPA Ad Hoc.
He also serves as the co-chair of the board of directors for the Point Foundation, vice president of people and business operations at a technology start-up, and has been employed at Owl Labs since August 2019.
“I bring 20 years of professional management experience, eight years of national nonprofit board leadership, and a lifetime of standing up, speaking out and working to make the world more peaceful and welcoming,” Harman said.
He also factored in his current term as Ward 4’s city councilor.
“Notable actions include supporting accessory dwelling units to expand affordable housing, co-sponsoring a resolution affirming Newburyport’s commitment to our immigrant neighbors, and helping move the Recreation Center past years of debate and into construction,” Harman said.
He said the city faces serious challenges, including climate resiliency, aging water and sewer systems, and the rising cost of living for families and seniors.
Discussing his priorities, he said they would fall into three areas starting with smart investments.
“As a coastal community, we must strengthen our resiliency against sea level rise and extreme weather while modernizing our drinking water and wastewater systems. I’ll focus on wise, responsible investments that prepare us for the future while being mindful of the cost to taxpayers,” Harman said.
The next area he said he would like to focus on is affordability and opportunity.
“Rising housing costs threaten the fabric of our community. I’ll continue to advocate for thoughtful housing policies, mixed-use development, and city services that allow seniors, families and the next generation to stay here and thrive,” Harman said.
Finally, Harman said he would like to continuing improving street safety and building strong neighborhoods.
“I’ve worked hard to address speeding and pedestrian safety, and I’ll keep pushing for improvements that make our streets safer for walkers, cyclists, and drivers alike. Strong neighborhoods are built on safety, connection, and a welcoming spirit, and that’s the Newburyport I’ll keep working toward,” Harman said.
Coming to the state as a student at Boston University, meeting his husband and building their roots in the city, Harman said he is eager to continue helping to better his home.
“I love being part of community traditions – from hosting friends for the Yankee Homecoming parade to celebrating Pride in Brown Square. Newburyport is truly home,” Harman said.
Harman is set to be replaced in Ward 4 by Low Street resident Beth Trach, who is running uncontested.