Benjamin Spencer

nonpartisan

More housing must be built, and we must do it where it makes the most sense: where there is already housing and close to the two urban centers of Downtown Northampton and Florence Center. Families are having fewer children, more people are working from home, fewer people are choosing to own a car. Accessibility and walkability is paramount: lets house people close to the things they need. We can be a 15 minute city. We already are one.

The Main Street redesign will make downtown safer, increase safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians all while supporting businesses, keeping traffic moving and contributing to a healthier community.

We need to continue their work in a collaborative and supportive way. We need to have a “yes, and…” approach to economic development. The more our city has to offer, the more people will spend their time and money here. We must commit to promoting our city, shopping locally and going out for ice cream frequently. It is our duty.

Cities are complicated, and there are many needs that must be met — now and in the future. Northampton has over 25 city services departments with people working diligently to keep our community running well. Every department depends on sufficient funding from the city budget We must continue to fund our city services with the whole city in mind.