Effective Government

I am committed to ensuring effective leadership through a comprehensive evaluation of both existing and proposed ordinances, which entails verifying whether intended goals are being met and making necessary recalibrations to enhance their impact on the community. It's disconcerting to witness instances of "pass it now and address issues later.”

I will advocate for a thorough review of the ordinance process to ensure that input is solicited from the entire community, not just specific groups. Meaningful engagement should involve our department leadership, who is responsible for coordinating and implementing programs. This approach will create a synergy within the impacted community.

It's imperative to assess the strain on infrastructure and allocate funds for additional essential resources like schools, public safety, green areas, and public works. The allure of Cambridge is undeniable, but strategizing housing should prioritize collaboration with the Cambridge Historical Commission versus rushed developer-driven objectives. My focus will be on improving life for all residents.

I am concerned about the rushed support for moving the Building Energy User Disclosure Ordinance (BEUDO), from disclosure to a mandated retrofit before careful evaluation. The data generated from the disclosures should be required first before entertaining a mandated retrofit. The City of Cambridge must be transparent and outline the financial implications for restaurants, homeowners, and condo owners to assess any potential effects on rent and cost increases.

Ultimately, our community's transparency hinges on holding both elected officials and department leadership accountable. This commitment to accountability and transparency is the bedrock upon which we can make decisions that truly benefit our residents.