The following is my video candidate statement for re-election on NewTV.
(Click to watch video.)
Transcript:
I’m Bill Humphrey, chair of Progressive Newton and Ward 5 City Councilor, seeking a third term. I serve on the Finance Committee and the Programs & Services Committee.
In recent years, many residents have grown uncertain about Newton’s future, whether we are on the right track, and what our local government is doing about it.
Some uncertainty reflects the collapse of local news reporting. But it’s clear we need to take steps to restore public confidence. We also need a coherent vision for our city’s future.
Newton should be a community for everyone. That means acting to fix everyday things that are breaking down, so that we serve those who already live here and continue to attract new residents.
Over the next few years, the task of city government is obvious: fix the roads, fix the schools, and fix the flooding.
Our streets need to be paved properly, and we need complete streets with safe designs. Whether you are new parents with strollers or elders feeling less sure-footed, or anyone in between, you should be able to traverse unbroken sidewalks and cross roads safely. If you want the option to ride a bike, that should be safe too. And private utilities shouldn’t dig it up daily.
Our schools face declining enrollment, crumbling facilities, and rising costs. Morale is low among educators, students, and parents alike. We need to rethink our approach, collaboratively.
Our community has also recently experienced flooding from a combination of bad historic development choices and rising global temperatures. This risk is growing. We have to invest urgently in resilience.
Some priorities can be tackled with existing funding that we have. But these challenges also mean it’s time for a change in Newton. It’s not just about moving money around, or even about passing future operating override proposals. Newton also needs to grow.
Our population remains below its historic peak. Our infrastructure and fixed assets have high per capita costs that could be spread over a greater number of residents. Our business landscape continues to wither under the multiple pressures of internet competition, lack of foot traffic, high rents, and outdated regulations.
A growing Newton is a Newton that can afford to maintain all its services.
Every Newtonian deserves a thriving community where we can realistically choose to walk, bike, or roll to a nearby village center within 15 minutes that meets our economic and social needs. Whether you’re going to school, going to the gym, going for groceries, or going for a date night, that should be within your reach.
That’s why we’re currently engaged in a zoning redesign process to restore our village centers and add some life back. That’s why we’re promoting a return to traditional models of housing above storefronts.
Newton should be a community for everyone, regardless of age, means, or background. No person has all the answers for how to do this, but together we do.
Visit billhumphrey.org and let me know your ideas. Thank you.
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