DISTRICT 7
PRIORITY ISSUES
HOUSING
We are currently experiencing a national housing crisis, the effects of which are especially impactful in high-demand metropolitan areas. Many residents find themselves in perilous circumstances, as wages have not kept up with the ever-increasing costs of rents, mortgages, and their associated fees. As a lifelong Roxburian, I have witnessed firsthand the negative consequences of this crisis.
The hardworking constituents of this district deserve access to affordable housing opportunities. We can begin to address housing insecurity for renters by abolishing mandatory tenant-paid broker fees, and advocating for inclusionary development policies and sustainable and alternative housing options. These options include cooperative housing and community land trusts. We also need more accessible initiatives to support those who wish to become homeowners. I am committed to advocating for policies that promote responsible housing production and affordability.
EDUCATION
Our city is renowned for being an educational hub and a knowledge-based economy. Boston Public Schools is the oldest public school system in the country! Everyone deserves access to an enriching and engaging educational experience - our K-12 level children deserve to learn from a culturally competent curriculum and in well-maintained school buildings with well-compensated educators and support staff. The arts represent an important part of the educational journey, and students should have opportunities to explore artistic expression in and outside of the classroom. Adults of all ages deserve to learn new skills through higher educational programs, which include college-level learning and vocational training. Both are worthy of investment and have the power to equip students with invaluable skills that can open doors to career advancement opportunities.
Despite the historical educational contributions of this city, there is still much improvement to be made. At all levels of education in this region, there are aging buildings in dire need of significant updates. My success while enrolled in BPS can be attributed to the network of family members and educators who challenged me to excel and advocated for my development. Having benefited from their guidance, I feel compelled to make even more of an investment of time and resources in future generations of students.
TRANSPORTATION
Streets are often described as the "connective tissue" system that facilitates mobility and access within cities, and after working for 17 years in the extremely complex industry of public transportation, I know this to be true. We have over 800 miles of roadways in Boston! It is critical that our street system is well-maintained for motorists, cyclists, public transport vehicles, and pedestrians to travel safely.
All Boston students grades 7-12 are eligible for a complimentary MBTA pass. In 2021, a fare-free pilot program began with Route 28, and has since been expanded to Routes 23 and 29. For the past 3 years, MBTA riders have been able to enjoy fare-free transit on these 3 routes, which travel through some of Boston's highest ridership and lowest-income areas. I am in full support of the expansion of initiatives that increase access to transportation resources.
PUBLIC HEALTH
I believe that excellent healthcare is a right that should be afforded to all. Both mental and physical healthcare should be prioritized. According to the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission, residents in our state already pay the second highest amount for health coverage in the country, with annual insurance premiums averaging $29,000 per family. In a region where constituents are already overwhelmed by other high costs of living, I will champion for affordable and accessible healthcare.
In the Boston Public Health Commission's 2023 "Health of Boston" Report, it was documented that there was a life expectancy gap of approximately 23 years between the neighborhoods of Roxbury and Back Bay. The longest average lifespan is almost 92 years for residents in a section of Back Bay. Residents near Nubian Square in Roxbury have the shorter life span of just under 69 years. Disparities of this nature persist due in large part to long standing inequities in access and treatment. Inequities like these should not exist. It is unacceptable that life expectancy differs so drastically within such a short distance. The Boston Public Health Commission recently began their Live Long and Well agenda, a 10 year program with a goal of minimizing this existing gap, and have expressed a need to partner with the community as they navigate this endeavor.
There are many public health issues in this district that need to be properly addressed. I believe in working collaboratively with initiatives aimed at not just extending our residents' lifespan, but also improving their healthspan — the number of years lived in good health. I am committed to ensuring that all our community members have access to the resources, services, and opportunities they need to live long, healthy lives. Together, we can create an environment where every resident has an increased certainty to thrive, not only in terms of longevity but also in their quality of life.
ECONOMIC GROWTH
During my 15 years as a union member, I have witnessed the invaluable economic contributions that are a direct result of workers. Without workers, there is no revenue, no growth, and no progress. I strongly believe that every worker deserves a livable wage, fair benefits, and the right to collectively organize and advocate for their rights. I will fight for policies that keep unemployment rates low, prioritize fair compensation, workplace equity, and protections for all workers.
I also recognize the important role local small businesses and entrepreneurs have in driving our economy. They are a vital part of our community in providing jobs, supporting local culture, and contributing to the vibrancy of our neighborhoods. As a consumer-owner of Rozzie-Bound Co-op — the only co-op bookstore in the state — and a member-owner of the Dorchester Food Co-op, I am a passionate advocate for the cooperative economics model, as well as other models that promote economic growth. I will continue to champion policies that support these vital businesses and ensure they have the resources and opportunities they need to remain successful.
The City Council holds an enormous responsibility in approving the annual municipal budget. As your representative, I will advocate for a budget that prioritizes programs and policies that directly benefit the people of District 7. From supporting local businesses and creating jobs, to improving public services and infrastructure, I am committed to ensuring that every dollar is spent wisely to create positive, lasting impact in our community.