Looking Back on My First Term Representing Ward 4

As I wrap up my first term serving as Ward 4 City Councilor, I’ve been reflecting on the work we’ve done together as a community and as a Council. Representing and being a voice for my neighbors has been one of the greatest honors of my life. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, and even more motivated to keep building on this foundation.

Here are a few highlights from the past two years:

Championing the Recreation Center

One of the most important projects I’ve had the privilege to work on is the new Recreation Center. I was proud to lead on this effort—helping move the project through Council deliberations and then rolling up my sleeves to campaign alongside the incredible volunteers who powered the Yes for the Rec debt exclusion vote. Together we secured a safe, affordable space where kids, families, and residents of all ages will be able to gather, learn, and thrive.

Prioritizing Safer Streets

Ward 4 residents have been clear: pedestrian and cyclist safety must be a top priority. Throughout my term, I’ve worked to elevate awareness and drive public discourse around traffic safety, speeding, and the need for better infrastructure. From pushing for safer crosswalks to amplifying concerns about cut-through traffic, I’ve made sure the voices of neighbors are heard at City Hall.

Expanding Housing Options with ADUs

To keep Newburyport accessible and affordable, we need more flexible housing solutions. That’s why I co-sponsored the ordinance that legalized Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)—small apartments or cottages that give homeowners more options while creating housing that works for seniors, young families, and workers. This step helps address our housing crisis in a way that strengthens neighborhoods and keeps our community more inclusive.

Advancing Affordable Housing at the Brown School

The conversion of the Brown School into senior affordable housing was not easy or straightforward—but it was necessary. I supported this project and worked to build consensus, ensuring seniors in our community have options to stay here as they age. I’m proud to have contributed to a compromise that balanced concerns while moving the project forward.

Leading on Equity and Human Rights

Representation and inclusion matter. Over the past two years, I’ve spoken out and shown up for our LGBTQ+ community and for human rights more broadly—delivering the keynote at the 2024 Pride Flag Raising, participating in Trans Day of Visibility, the Peace Prize, and other Human Rights Commission events. I also co-authored a resolution affirming immigrant rights and calling for federal accountability in enforcement practices. For me, this work is about ensuring Newburyport remains a welcoming, compassionate, and just community for everyone.

Serving as a Responsive, Accessible Councilor

At the heart of this role is being present and responsive. Whether it’s answering a question about a sidewalk repair, helping a family navigate a permitting process, or explaining what’s happening at City Hall, I’ve strived to be a thoughtful and approachable conduit between residents and local government. This type of work doesn’t usually make headlines, and I certainly haven't gotten everything right—but it’s the work that matters most to me as a Councilor.

With your support, I hope to continue this work as an At-Large Councilor so I can expand the focus citywide and bring my resident-centered approach to all of Newburyport. 

I hope to have a number of forums and opportunities to speak with residents over the next couple of months, but in the meantime please reach out to me with any questions, concerns or ideas about how we can best move forward and make progress together.