Emily Hardt

Social Services I’ll push for a more responsive 311 system and ensure residents get the services they deserve. Immigration I will also stand up for our immigrant neighbors, oppose federal overreach, and ensure residents know their rights. Environment / Energy I’ll support bold local climate action, prioritize creating green jobs, and make sure we’re prepared for extreme heat, flooding and rising energy costs. Housing I will look at our inclusionary housing ordinance to consider a higher percentage of affordable units, push to integrate housing in any large scale commercial development, and to allow for increased housing density near transit while keeping what we love about Davis and Teele Squares. Infrastructure / Transportation We also need reliable and accessible public transportation that meets residents’ needs. I’ll fight for a fare-free MBTA with improved routes and hours of service. I will also fight for micro-transit with improved north-south connectivity. Social Services I will also work to fund the Council on Aging at sufficient levels to have staff to support seniors and make sure they are connected to the services they need. Government Reform I will advocate for seniors to have a voice in city government and policies that help seniors stay in their homes, such as home modification grants for the installation of accessibility features. Infrastructure / Transportation I will prioritize ensuring that our sidewalks are in good repair and shoveled in the winter, and that our street crossings are safe for pedestrians of all ages and abilities. Housing I will look for creative solutions like tax relief for small landlords who keep rent below market. Environment / Energy We need to move forward with municipal curbside composting to get our food waste out of garbage cans where rats can get it, and enforce fines for businesses and landowners who don’t eliminate known rat habitat and food sources. Housing I would also advocate for and support home rule petitions to allow for rent stabilization in Somerville and to establish a small transfer fee on high-end real estate transactions to create dedicated funding for affordable housing production and preservation.