Voters will be choosing the top nine vote-getters to serve on the City Council for the next two years. All candidates were invited to participate in this Q&A.
Michael Obasohan
Ronald Sheldon
Wayne J Wilkinson
Barbara E Murray
Peter J. Oleskiewicz
Ashley Shade
Lisa Blackmer
Joseph Smith
Heidi Shartrand Newell
Bryan Sapienza
Keith Bona
Biography
Twelve awards from the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition; six years working at Goodwill Industries; fourth year running for North Adams City Council.
Why are you running for City Council?
To try to add my efforts to improve our city as well as being the voice for our elderly community.
Have you volunteered, participated in business or community organizations, helped in your neighborhood, etc.?
I volunteer for different art programs, in the office of the coalition, at MCLA, to do AA counseling for others through the Brien Center.
If elected, what issue in particular, if any, would you push the council to address?
The damages to our roads and especially our sidewalks. Not only making it difficult but also making it dangerous for the elderly and/or handicapped to safely and comfortably get around our town.
What experience or perspective would you bring to the council?
I would say the experience as well as the perspective of being both elderly as well as handicapped and the impact it has trying to live day-to-day life comfortably and safely in our city.
How would you reach out to constituents? Do you use Facebook or other methods?
Facebook as well as attending meetings and participating in a live interview with other City Council candidates for our local channel. I've also set up a bake stand at our local Downtown Celebration as a way to connect with and speak with the community members on my perspective.
What City Council committee would you most be interested in serving on?
Disability Committee
The city's infrastructure continues to be a major challenge, particularly the obsolete public safety building. How do you think the incoming administration should deal with this?
My opinion would be to look into the different ways that we may be able to come up with the funds to do what it takes to build up a new one for our city.
Do you see your role on the council as being more of an activist on issues or rather being responsive to administration or constituent proposals?
An activist on issues.
Do you think city government is transparent enough in its processes? Could it be better?
I would say that, as with anything, there is always space for growth and improvement.
What is the city's biggest challenge?
Making our tax base stronger to improve the comfortability of living for our North Adams residents.
What is the city's biggest opportunity?
To continue to focus on the safety of our people. To see our businesses booming once again. To see an incline in job opportunities and a decline in poverty, drugs, and homelessness. I would like to see our city building up into a recession and staying out of a depression.
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Biography
I have been a resident of North Adams for 46 years after taking my first job here after graduating from Springfield College as a greenhouse manager. I worked for the Northern Berkshire Association for Retarded Citizens, wrote a grant and built the greenhouse (not personally) on South Church Street now owned by the city. But my children came along and the job paid nothing so I moved on into the real estate world. Today I am the president of Wilkinson Appraisal Inc. We have been in business for 32 years. Thank you North Adams.
Why are you running for City Council?
To finish the work I started in my present term as city councilor.
Have you volunteered, participated in business or community organizations, helped in your neighborhood, etc.?
Where to start.
15 years on the North Adams Planning Board.
5 years on the North Adams Redevelopment Board
25 years on the North Adams Mobile Home Rent Control Board, last 15 years as chairman.
Have served on a number of subcommittees at the request of the mayor most recently the search for a site for the new Public Safety building.
15 years on the North Adams Planning Board.
5 years on the North Adams Redevelopment Board
25 years on the North Adams Mobile Home Rent Control Board, last 15 years as chairman.
Have served on a number of subcommittees at the request of the mayor most recently the search for a site for the new Public Safety building.
If elected, what issue in particular, if any, would you push the council to address?
A new Public Safety building !!!!!!
What experience or perspective would you bring to the council?
Where to start.
15 years on the North Adams Planning Board.
5 years on the North Adams Redevelopment Board
25 years on the North Adams Mobile Home Rent Control Board, last 15 years as chairman.
Have served on a number of subcommittees at the request of the mayor most recently the search for a site for the new Public Safety building.
15 years on the North Adams Planning Board.
5 years on the North Adams Redevelopment Board
25 years on the North Adams Mobile Home Rent Control Board, last 15 years as chairman.
Have served on a number of subcommittees at the request of the mayor most recently the search for a site for the new Public Safety building.
How would you reach out to constituents? Do you use Facebook or other methods?
I take them to lunch.
What City Council committee would you most be interested in serving on?
As a present member of the Finance and General Government committees, I would be happy to continue my work but know there is a need to bring in some new blood to learn how it works.
The city's infrastructure continues to be a major challenge, particularly the obsolete public safety building. How do you think the incoming administration should deal with this?
There is money out there to get this project shovel ready for federal funding. Go for it.
Do you see your role on the council as being more of an activist on issues or rather being responsive to administration or constituent proposals?
I always have and always will speak my own mind.
Do you think city government is transparent enough in its processes? Could it be better?
I could always be better, but council meetings are on TV locally only. It would be nice to get them to stream. It's being worked on.
What is the city's biggest challenge?
Keeping the budget in check. That's why I enjoy the Finance Committee.
What is the city's biggest opportunity?
Outside investors buying property in town especially commercial property. It increases the tax base.
Biography
Native of North Adams. Attended public schools in North Adams to include Houghton, Sullivan, Freeman Jr. High and Drury High School. Attended MCLA and University of Massachusetts. Received an associates degree from Monterey Peninsula College in California.
Moved with my husband, Glenn Murray, during his military career to Alaska, Pennsylvania, Alabama, Germany, California and Maryland. While in Germany I was able to go to France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Spain and Czechoslovakia. Living overseas for two tours was a privilege and education that I don't take for granted.
I ended up working for the U.S. government for 29 years in a variety of branches. I started with the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, Calif., in human resources and took a promotion at the School of Russian Language. It was a true cultural education for me. When I moved to Germany, I found employment in the Defense School System as a substitute teacher and then in the school library. Back in the U.S., I was hired by the U.S. Naval Academy in their library. From there, I accepted a promotion with the U.S. Coast Guard in their Technical Library. From there, I took a position back in the Berkshires with the Navy doing human resources and administrative work. I accepted a position at MCLA in the Computer Science Lab procuring equipment. Upon returning to Maryland, I found employment that required a top secret clearance with the Joint Counter Intelligence Agency, the U.S. Secret Service and the Army 902d Intelligence Command. My last position was as a training coordinator and entailed budgeting, procurement, and traveling to language conferences.
Upon retiring from the government, I returned to my hometown of North Adams and bought my childhood home. My mother lives here with me and my husband, who was also born and raised in North Adams. We were married in North Adams and are always happiest in our beloved Berkshires. We have found ourselves living in North Adams throughout our adult lives and raised our children here at different times. Greg was on the Drury High School baseball team. Melissa played travel softball for the Northern Berkshire All Stars and also was on the Drury Softball team. Glenn was a basketball coach in the North Adams recreational league for many years while Kristin played basketball in North Adams. I found myself keeping score at many a game. Greg, Melissa and Kristin still have many local friends from their school and sports activities here. Glenn is still referred to as coach when we run into the girls that played on his teams.
I am the mother of three, Gregory Murray, Melissa Murray Bowman and Kristin Murray Nowottnick. I am blessed with six grandchildren, Brett Murray, Natalie Murray, Gabe Murray, Abby Bowman, Hadley Nowottnick and Jack Nowottnick. My children and grandchildren all love coming to North Adams to visit. There's always plenty to do in the area no matter what season it is. I have a large extended family in the Berkshires and have been able to reconnect with some school friends since returning to North Adams seven years ago.
I have joined the GreeNA eco-friendly group and enjoy attending the Book Club that meets monthly at the North Adams Library. I consider the library one of the cities best resources.
Moved with my husband, Glenn Murray, during his military career to Alaska, Pennsylvania, Alabama, Germany, California and Maryland. While in Germany I was able to go to France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Spain and Czechoslovakia. Living overseas for two tours was a privilege and education that I don't take for granted.
I ended up working for the U.S. government for 29 years in a variety of branches. I started with the Defense Language Institute in Monterey, Calif., in human resources and took a promotion at the School of Russian Language. It was a true cultural education for me. When I moved to Germany, I found employment in the Defense School System as a substitute teacher and then in the school library. Back in the U.S., I was hired by the U.S. Naval Academy in their library. From there, I accepted a promotion with the U.S. Coast Guard in their Technical Library. From there, I took a position back in the Berkshires with the Navy doing human resources and administrative work. I accepted a position at MCLA in the Computer Science Lab procuring equipment. Upon returning to Maryland, I found employment that required a top secret clearance with the Joint Counter Intelligence Agency, the U.S. Secret Service and the Army 902d Intelligence Command. My last position was as a training coordinator and entailed budgeting, procurement, and traveling to language conferences.
Upon retiring from the government, I returned to my hometown of North Adams and bought my childhood home. My mother lives here with me and my husband, who was also born and raised in North Adams. We were married in North Adams and are always happiest in our beloved Berkshires. We have found ourselves living in North Adams throughout our adult lives and raised our children here at different times. Greg was on the Drury High School baseball team. Melissa played travel softball for the Northern Berkshire All Stars and also was on the Drury Softball team. Glenn was a basketball coach in the North Adams recreational league for many years while Kristin played basketball in North Adams. I found myself keeping score at many a game. Greg, Melissa and Kristin still have many local friends from their school and sports activities here. Glenn is still referred to as coach when we run into the girls that played on his teams.
I am the mother of three, Gregory Murray, Melissa Murray Bowman and Kristin Murray Nowottnick. I am blessed with six grandchildren, Brett Murray, Natalie Murray, Gabe Murray, Abby Bowman, Hadley Nowottnick and Jack Nowottnick. My children and grandchildren all love coming to North Adams to visit. There's always plenty to do in the area no matter what season it is. I have a large extended family in the Berkshires and have been able to reconnect with some school friends since returning to North Adams seven years ago.
I have joined the GreeNA eco-friendly group and enjoy attending the Book Club that meets monthly at the North Adams Library. I consider the library one of the cities best resources.
Why are you running for City Council?
I am concerned about the future of North Adams and would love to be more involved in our cities challenges.
Have you volunteered, participated in business or community organizations, helped in your neighborhood, etc.?
I am a member of the greeNA group here in the city. We started this eco-friendly initiative three years ago and were just getting projects started when COVID-19 put a damper on things. We met up early this summer and are starting up with a pollinator mapping project that is being spear headed by Eric Buddington. We are always promoting composting and using the recycling bins at the city transfer station. I participated in last summer's U.S. Census and was able to meet some North Adams residents that I wouldn't have if not for that opportunity.
If elected, what issue in particular, if any, would you push the council to address?
I would love to see our public schools ratings improve. I volunteered in the reading one on one program while employed at MCLA with a student at Greylock School and found that very rewarding. We need to give our children the math and reading skills that they need for their future endeavors.
Secondly, I would always be looking to promote environmental approaches to city governing when practical.
Secondly, I would always be looking to promote environmental approaches to city governing when practical.
What experience or perspective would you bring to the council?
I bring my 29 years of government employment to the table. I've sat through my fair share of meetings and respect the process. I am willing to listen to other's opinions and share my own. I hope that my travels have broadened my experiences and given me a new perspective on my hometown of North Adams.
How would you reach out to constituents? Do you use Facebook or other methods?
I have always been outgoing and have been told I am approachable. This personality trait should help me in my efforts to work for the residents of North Adams. I have a Facebook page that will be launched soon.
What City Council committee would you most be interested in serving on?
Community Development
The city's infrastructure continues to be a major challenge, particularly the obsolete public safety building. How do you think the incoming administration should deal with this?
With earnest expedience. Communication with the public safety unions must be part of the process along with being prudent with tax payers money. This infrastructure challenge needs to be addressed and remedied as soon as possible.
Do you see your role on the council as being more of an activist on issues or rather being responsive to administration or constituent proposals?
I feel like it will be a challenge if elected to become more educated on proposals. I see myself as someone who will want to know as much as possible about the matters at hand to be a conscientious civil servant. This said, I will be serving my constituents.
Do you think city government is transparent enough in its processes? Could it be better?
I think it tries to be transparent. It could be better and has recently been providing information upon request.
What is the city's biggest challenge?
Drug addiction
What is the city's biggest opportunity?
Working with surrounding communities for the betterment of Berkshire County.
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Biography
Lifetime resident of North Adams. I spent two decades in the trucking industry under many capacities. In 2017, I had the opportunity to buy a local restaurant, Desperados. I have always wanted to be active in my community and give back but my career did not afford me the time to do so. Being involved and giving give me great pleasure. North Adams is home and North Adams is where I will die, so as long as I can I will always be committed to doing everything I can to make a difference.
Why are you running for City Council?
Surprisingly, I was approached by many in the 2019 election. I was already active in smaller capacities and decided to make a run so I could give more. We live in such a beautiful spot here in the Berkshires so I decided to commit myself to be a part of trying to make North Adams better and better. We all know that in the late '80s things started to take a turn for the worse, but over the last 20 or so years we have seen some growth, the pace seems slow at times but the arrow is definitely pointing in the right direction.
Have you volunteered, participated in business or community organizations, helped in your neighborhood, etc.?
I am currently part of the NAMAZING Initiative. I do maintain the Eagle Street Park and parklet. I do volunteer as much as possible, Councilor Benjamin Lamb keeps me busy for sure and I wouldn't change it for anything. Staying active and volunteer efforts are key to building strong communities.
If elected, what issue in particular, if any, would you push the council to address?
There are several. One to note is a need for a safe, ADA compliant and suitable workspace for our local heroes. This gets talked about every cycle, but now it is time to act. In two years at election time, I hope to not have this one as a focal point again.
What experience or perspective would you bring to the council?
My experience is now I will have one term served. I have learned so much and willing to learn more. Most think this is easy, I can assure you that it is not. It is a huge commitment of time. It is not just meeting twice a month, there are committees that we serve on as well, and countless of hours of research. I currently serve on Public Safety and as chair of Public Services and am liaison to Hoosac Water Quality District. My perspective would be pretty much the same as the rest of us, make good decisions, be informed, transparent, and keep the best interest of every resident of North Adams at the forefront.
How would you reach out to constituents? Do you use Facebook or other methods?
Social media has become a huge part of our lives, I get more messages through there than through city email. My telephone number is public and do receive many calls. My favorite is in person, I enjoy sitting on Main Street with a coffee and having conversation.
What City Council committee would you most be interested in serving on?
I wish to stay on my current committees, I have built relationships with our Public Safety Departments and I like to visit on site to all crews in Public Works.
The city's infrastructure continues to be a major challenge, particularly the obsolete public safety building. How do you think the incoming administration should deal with this?
Chase money that was attached to a bond bill in 2018, there is a start. We can no longer drag our feet on this one. Now is the time to borrow and solve this problem that has gone on for far too long.
Do you see your role on the council as being more of an activist on issues or rather being responsive to administration or constituent proposals?
You play many roles, constituents always come first.
Do you think city government is transparent enough in its processes? Could it be better?
Everything could always be better. We all need to work hard, we all need to work together. If we agree on something, great. If tomorrow we disagree, so be it. Tomorrow is another day and on to the next issue.
What is the city's biggest challenge?
MONEY... It is way overdue to really start looking more at shared services and regionalization. We need to keep on our senators, congressman and state rep to keep telling Boston that Massachusetts end over here at the Vermont border and not in Springfield.
What is the city's biggest opportunity?
Growth. We are currently experiencing it. People may not like another Cumbies, but three new properties pay a higher property tax bill. We are now waiting on an indoor grow facility in the former Crane building and a lumber and hardware store in the building next door. Let us keep seeing outside investment and also hometown investment like Mr. Moresi who has a proven successful track record, in my term so far he has purchased two city properties which are now on the tax rolls.
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Biography
Ashley Shade is a longtime resident of North Adams, having moved here with her family in 1991. After graduating from Charles H. McCann Technical School, she began working and later studying at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, where her interest in politics and civics began. She has a bachelor's of science in business administration.
As the chairwoman of a national non-profit organization, Outright Libertarians, and a member of the National Transgender Visibility March policy team, Ashley continues to work and offer solutions to serve and represent LGBTQ-plus community issues and provide a positive impact on people's lives. Her election as chair of the Libertarian Party of Massachusetts set history, making Ashley the first transgender person in Massachusetts to be elected as the chair of a state political party. She is a staunch advocate for diversity and inclusiveness and uses her platform to increase education and awareness around the issues that face the LGBTQ-plus community. Her current work on the city's Human Services Commission and the City Council's Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA) Working Group has helped further the aim to build a strong, safe, and vibrant community in North Adams.
Being transgender has given her a unique perspective on what it feels like to be marginalized, a perspective that and the vital importance of helping people of all backgrounds and treating them with equal compassion.
As the chairwoman of a national non-profit organization, Outright Libertarians, and a member of the National Transgender Visibility March policy team, Ashley continues to work and offer solutions to serve and represent LGBTQ-plus community issues and provide a positive impact on people's lives. Her election as chair of the Libertarian Party of Massachusetts set history, making Ashley the first transgender person in Massachusetts to be elected as the chair of a state political party. She is a staunch advocate for diversity and inclusiveness and uses her platform to increase education and awareness around the issues that face the LGBTQ-plus community. Her current work on the city's Human Services Commission and the City Council's Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA) Working Group has helped further the aim to build a strong, safe, and vibrant community in North Adams.
Being transgender has given her a unique perspective on what it feels like to be marginalized, a perspective that and the vital importance of helping people of all backgrounds and treating them with equal compassion.
Why are you running for City Council?
To serve my community, help represent marginalized and underserved people and work with others to solve our critical development needs.
Have you volunteered, participated in business or community organizations, helped in your neighborhood, etc.?
Yes. I am a member of the Berkshire Stonewall Community Coalition board of directors, a member of the North Adams Human Services Commission, a member of the Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA) Working Group. I also serve on the Berkshire Pride planning committee, the LGBTQ-plus Healthcare Collaborative, and completed the NBCC Community Outreach Volunteer Program.
If elected, what issue in particular, if any, would you push the council to address?
Economic development, mental health awareness, infrastructure and increased representation to underserved and marginalized communities.
What experience or perspective would you bring to the council?
I have experience as an activist, campaign volunteer and have served in numerous leadership roles. I have developed the skills necessary to work with people of all backgrounds and ideas in order to accomplish goals and tasks. I have a unique experience as a member of the LGBTQ-plus community and I will work to ensure all people have representation in office.
How would you reach out to constituents? Do you use Facebook or other methods?
I am on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram as @ashade4office. I also have a website, ashleyshade.com. I will reach out to voters however they would like to be contacted. I will continuously evaluate the COVID-19 situation to determine if door knocking can be done safely in our community.
What City Council committee would you most be interested in serving on?
Finance, General Government, Public Safety.
The city's infrastructure continues to be a major challenge, particularly the obsolete public safety building. How do you think the incoming administration should deal with this?
The new administration needs to put in resources to acquire grants for funding these projects.
Do you see your role on the council as being more of an activist on issues or rather being responsive to administration or constituent proposals?
It's a combination of all of these. My responsibility will be to represent my constituents, fight for the people of North Adams, and work to get things done to help improve our community.
Do you think city government is transparent enough in its processes? Could it be better?
It can always do better. Updating meeting minutes online in a timely fashion and having a livestream of all city government meetings would be a great start.
What is the city's biggest challenge?
Decades of declining population along with a failure to procure funds for necessary maintenance and upgrades to our infrastructure.
What is the city's biggest opportunity?
We have a strong community ready and willing to work. We have the backbone and educational institutions to recruit great paying jobs to North Adams. We have a chance to develop into an economic center if we put resources into business recruitment and work together with all of our amazing institutions here and in our county.
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Biography
I grew up in NYC during the 1970s and 1980s. I graduated from St. John's University in 1994 with a bachelor of science in communications. I have worked in information technology for around 25 years now, with one early job being for the giant New England-based consulting firm called Gartner. For most of my career, I worked for specialty support firms for the hedge fund industry, which is known as a rather demanding clientele.
Why are you running for City Council?
When the City Council voted to put a new roof on a bad building I spoke at a City Council meeting asking that the council remember this day and please work actively to help with a longer-term solution. I don't feel that we saw that happen. We have human beings, first-responders, working in a building that one city councilor had said would likely be condemned were it not a city-owned building. iBerkshires itself has detailed the condition, not just recently, but also at least 10 years ago. The city should not be providing a building for people to work in that we'd probably be issuing fines to if it were owned by a private company.
Beyond that is general transparency and advocacy. We need to improve transparency and we need a council that advocates on issues, both issues from constituents and also matters we see as important as local leaders. One matter that we have before us as a community that is very important is having lost out on a school renovation project for Greylock. We have an opportunity to apply for a smaller-scale project for Brayton, which could be vital to possible school regionalization in the future.
Lastly, is plain accessibility, we need to put the "public servant" aspect back at the forefront. I want to hear from the people I would be serving and be advocating on your behalf.
Beyond that is general transparency and advocacy. We need to improve transparency and we need a council that advocates on issues, both issues from constituents and also matters we see as important as local leaders. One matter that we have before us as a community that is very important is having lost out on a school renovation project for Greylock. We have an opportunity to apply for a smaller-scale project for Brayton, which could be vital to possible school regionalization in the future.
Lastly, is plain accessibility, we need to put the "public servant" aspect back at the forefront. I want to hear from the people I would be serving and be advocating on your behalf.
Have you volunteered, participated in business or community organizations, helped in your neighborhood, etc.?
I was a major donor to both the Eagle Street Initiative and the Ashland Street Initiative. I have also volunteered at the Berkshire Food Project, which is such a wonderful asset to our city.
If elected, what issue in particular, if any, would you push the council to address?
The public safety building issue, which has been constantly put on the back burner for way too long.
What experience or perspective would you bring to the council?
We've had some embarrassing news coverage surrounding internal council politics in recent times, such as about who was going to be council president. We've had councilors blocking each other on social media. Sadly, cliques exist. My perspective is that councilors are there to serve. If I strongly disagree with you on one topic, I need to be able to work with you on the next one despite that.
The hedge fund industry was often a high-stress environment. Dealing with a fund principal or head trader on a bad market day was not always a fun experience, but I took a lot of pride in having relationships work well, even in stressful situations. I hope to bring the idea that it is OK to disagree, it is great to compromise where feasible, and that it is all about operating in good faith in the position.
The hedge fund industry was often a high-stress environment. Dealing with a fund principal or head trader on a bad market day was not always a fun experience, but I took a lot of pride in having relationships work well, even in stressful situations. I hope to bring the idea that it is OK to disagree, it is great to compromise where feasible, and that it is all about operating in good faith in the position.
How would you reach out to constituents? Do you use Facebook or other methods?
Facebook is certainly a good tool for reaching out that I would use. Perhaps more importantly though would be making sure I am accessible to constituents who want to reach out to me. I would be making sure to be responsive in a timely fashion to any emails, Facebook messages, or calls.
What City Council committee would you most be interested in serving on?
I would say either Community Development or Public Services. Beyond that, I certainly would be interested in the liaison positions for either the North Adams School Committee or Mass MoCA Commission.
The city's infrastructure continues to be a major challenge, particularly the obsolete public safety building. How do you think the incoming administration should deal with this?
The police union has made a recent public plea that the current administration makes known their intentions when it comes to an available property downtown that could be leased, which the police union describes as "move-in ready." If this is still unresolved when the new administration comes in they should quickly evaluate this opportunity and communicate to both the public and police union their intentions.
Either way, at best, this will still leave us with finding a home for the fire department. So we will need a broad plan drawn up, where it is communicated to everyone. This is a challenging situation. But we have to be prepared to make hard choices to do everything we can to get this done. Kicking the can is how we ended up having to get a loan to put a roof on a bad building that otherwise is not worth saving. We need leaders willing to make hard choices and we need to pursue any grant or state aid that can be obtained. We need to keep in mind we have humans working in a building not fit to be a workplace for people.
Either way, at best, this will still leave us with finding a home for the fire department. So we will need a broad plan drawn up, where it is communicated to everyone. This is a challenging situation. But we have to be prepared to make hard choices to do everything we can to get this done. Kicking the can is how we ended up having to get a loan to put a roof on a bad building that otherwise is not worth saving. We need leaders willing to make hard choices and we need to pursue any grant or state aid that can be obtained. We need to keep in mind we have humans working in a building not fit to be a workplace for people.
Do you see your role on the council as being more of an activist on issues or rather being responsive to administration or constituent proposals?
All of the above. I think we have seen with recent councils very little of an activist role overall, with some occasional exceptions. In my mind being an activist for issues is at least equally important. I don't think we are elected just to be city councilors but as public servant leaders. I grew up in a larger city and activism from city councilors was a normal thing. A city councilor in that city was instrumental in helping my family once. Things like that matter.
Do you think city government is transparent enough in its processes? Could it be better?
The current administration is not transparent enough. I have been told by more than one current councilor that some queries they make to the administration simply go unanswered. Certainly, queries from the public are not always answered either. Beyond this, the city has at times been cagey about public record requests, where records have only been obtained via an appeal to the state. It also appears that the administration has recently been demanding fees for some simple public records requests, even though state public records law strongly encourages no fees. The good news is we have a chance for a fresh start with a new administration, I hope voters will ask those running for mayor how they intend to handle transparency into the future. Transparency is the foundation of obtaining fair governance.
What is the city's biggest challenge?
Money would seem to be the constant challenge for the city. Costs go up, state aid often goes down. Our population has been aging and shrinking. Our infrastructure is more often failing because money has been such a long-term obstacle. We need to be forming coalitions with other rural communities to fight for better state funding, asking our area state reps to fight harder for us as well. We need to explore regionalization agreements so more costs can be shared. We need to be willing to make some concessions to smaller communities around us in such regionalization agreements so they will be more open to working with us. We need to do all we can to change things from short-term band-aids to moving towards longer-term solutions.
What is the city's biggest opportunity?
The city has seen both outside investment and homegrown investment in recent years. Some of which have brought very positive press coverage. We need to continue to build on this wherever we can. The more people who learn about North Adams the more opportunities we have to attract young families, which is essential to long-term growth.
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Biography
My name is Heidi Shartrand Newell. As a '90s kid who grew up in North Adams, I know the joy that this city has brought to my family. My father's family has lived in this city for many decades and I am proud to be raising my own family here! I have a professional background in adaptive education and photography, while my eduction includes behavioral psychology and sociology. I am currently a work-at-home parent with a feisty toddler. We enjoy all things North Adams, from the farmers' markets to the amazing coffee at various cafes (OK, that one is mostly me and not the toddler) to the gorgeous views at every turn. I am honored to be campaigning in such an awesome place and I cannot wait to see where this journey takes us.
Why are you running for City Council?
I want to bring my voice into the chambers to uplift the voices outside of the chambers who don't get listened to. I am not a voice for the voiceless, but an amplifier for the unheard.
Have you volunteered, participated in business or community organizations, helped in your neighborhood, etc.?
Yes, prior to the pandemic, I was the lead coordinator for the Community Free Lunch hosted at First Baptist Church. Currently, I do my best to support other pandemic parents through support, trading and donating items, and COVID-safe playgroups.
If elected, what issue in particular, if any, would you push the council to address?
Accessibility, 100 percent. In all areas, we can be better to our neighbors by making our city more accessible, and making our local government more accessible. Relying on Facebook chat groups to get information is not a great look and we need to do better about reaching actual people directly with Zoom, livestreams, closed captioning, etc of meetings.
What experience or perspective would you bring to the council?
I spent almost a decade working in adaptive and accessible education ("special ed"). I have seen the beautiful things that happen when people are allowed to be their best, truest selves. I am not an affluent member of the community and I feel that we need more voices from this demographic to be heard when we discuss the future of the city. And with all the hullabaloo about being "from here," I am proud to say that yes I was born at our tiny little NARH but I was able to expand my worldview by living in the American South for five years. I bring a perspective that sees every voice and every body as someone of value.
How would you reach out to constituents? Do you use Facebook or other methods?
So far, I have utilized Facebook with the most engagement, and Instagram with the next best engagement. I have done my best to engage with community members in person, or through conversations in the ever-popular Facebook groups.
What City Council committee would you most be interested in serving on?
Definitely Community Development, but Parks & Rec is a close second.
The city's infrastructure continues to be a major challenge, particularly the obsolete public safety building. How do you think the incoming administration should deal with this?
Well, I have a lot of thoughts on how much focus we have placed on the police department building and not on the many other issues, but I think that we did not get to this place in 2-4 years. This has been willful neglect or mishandling of needed funds to allow our buildings, roads, sidewalks, fire hydrants, etc., to become in such disrepair. I think the incoming administration needs to hunker down, look at the money coming in from federal relief packages, sniff out grants, and really put in the hard work to fix and MAINTAIN our infrastructure.
Do you see your role on the council as being more of an activist on issues or rather being responsive to administration or constituent proposals?
I think I will have to swing between both camps, if I am honest. My heart is an activist, my head is a realist. I want to help North Adams, but sometimes we don't always know how to help ourselves, and in those cases playing an activist role may be the correct route to take.
Do you think city government is transparent enough in its processes? Could it be better?
I think accessibility, not transparency, is the issue. Meetings are currently only in-person again. Why? Zoom made all meetings more accessible to almost every person. I can't even participate in council meetings every month because I don't have cable, I might not be physically able to go to City Hall, but I could log on to a Zoom. I am still wrapping my brain around a municipal budget so sometimes I don't even understand what is being discussed, but I think that sure, a level of transparency IS needed to discuss tax money, grant funds, federal money, etc. If those things are available and accessible, then I encourage anyone with concerns to keep reading those minutes and engaging in budget committee meetings.
What is the city's biggest challenge?
Being a community in 2022. We seem to have taken on the general tension, stress, and fervor of the national circus. We must care about each other in real, tangible ways. I don't care what it says on your birth certificate, if you are invested in our community, if you love North Adams, if you spend weekends here, if you vacation here, if you WANT to be here, you are "from" here. When we stop caring about the petty things and start speaking hard truths with love, that's how we get there.
What is the city's biggest opportunity?
The people. Ironically enough, our strength is also being a community. But we have the chance to make our community safer, more welcoming, more accessible, and more equitable to more folks. Diversity and inclusion looks nice on paper, but the nitty gritty is making sidewalks easier to use for disabled people; making playgrounds safer for autistic children or families; having more business with wheelchair or mobility device accessibility; more affordable options for investment in real estate or small business spaces. We have the foundation. We have the people. I really think we just need to reach out and grab it.
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Biography
I am a native and longtime resident of North Adams. I graduated from MCLA in 1998 with a bachelor's degree in business administration. I have an associate's degree in engineering technology from BCC in 1994. I currently work as the parts manager for K-M Toyota. I am serving on the City Council and on the Public Safety Committee, having recently been appointed the chair. I also serve on the Community Development Committee and the Public Arts Commission.
Why are you running for City Council?
I am running for City Council to serve the city that has been my home for all these years. I have a desire to help our citizens and to help keep the City moving forward. I feel that it is my way to give back to the place I call home.
Have you volunteered, participated in business or community organizations, helped in your neighborhood, etc.?
I have participated in many community events over the years. I was a big promoter of the Downtown Bike Around group that advocated for bicycle-friendly streets.
If elected, what issue in particular, if any, would you push the council to address?
We need to keep moving forward on our public safety building, our Public Safety officials need a safe and functional building in which they can do their jobs. We need to push for improvements in our infrastructure without burdening our taxpayers.
What experience or perspective would you bring to the council?
My technical background helps me understand the workings of the infrastructure of our city. My management experience in making government processes more efficient and effective. My ability to look at new ways and methods to get things accomplished. Also my experience of currently serving on the City Council.
How would you reach out to constituents? Do you use Facebook or other methods?
My favorite way to reach out is by meeting in person with my constituents. I like talking to people face to face. I do use Facebook but it is not a primary channel for me. I feel that Facebook lessens the experience for people. You only see printed words, you don't hear their voices and they don't hear yours. Phone conversations are always good if you can't meet in person.
What City Council committee would you most be interested in serving on?
Public Safety, Public Services, and Finance Committee
The city's infrastructure continues to be a major challenge, particularly the obsolete public safety building. How do you think the incoming administration should deal with this?
We need to have a shovel-ready plan for our public safety building. Once we have a firm plan, we need to go after our state and federal leaders to secure the funding that we need.
Do you see your role on the council as being more of an activist on issues or rather being responsive to administration or constituent proposals?
I see myself as more responsive to constituent and administrative proposals. As I go along, if I see an issue that I feel needs to be acted upon, I will take a more activist role.
Do you think city government is transparent enough in its processes? Could it be better?
I believe that city government is pretty transparent, but that doesn't mean that it could be better. I have not seen any major issues so far, with my experience with the council. My phone number and email address are there for anyone who might have a question.
What is the city's biggest challenge?
Updating our infrastructure, our Public Safety building, our water and sewer systems. Being able to find the money to address these issues without placing any additional burden on the taxpayers. Also to be able to fund competitive salaries for our officials to retain people in their positions in the city government. We also need to make sure our educational opportunities are good enough to attract new business and residents to our area.
What is the city's biggest opportunity?
To capitalize on several items that make North Adams attractive to people from other areas. One is our good quality of life, the natural beauty of the area. The lower relative cost of living and doing business in our city. We need to market the attributes of our great little city here in Western Massachusetts.
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Biography
Married 30-plus years, two adult children that graduated from Drury and McCann. Local retail business owner for over 20 years, including Berkshire Emporium for the past 16 years. Instructed graphic communications desktop programs at MCLA for over a decade. Served as the graphic communications coordinator for Berkshire Music School. Landlord and property manager. Operated Bona Marketing & Printing since 1990 to present. McCann class '86. BFA Rochester Institute of Technology '90.
Why are you running for City Council?
We are going to have a new administration. We have many new city department heads and others near retirement. The majority of the City Council will have less than a full term served after this election, including two members put on the past year and at least three new members will be elected. If most of the members have been long serving, I would have taken a break as I did after the first eight years I served. However, with so much changing very quickly, I believe some former experience and knowledge of process, history of what has come in front of us, and overall understanding the council is beneficial.
That doesn't mean my voice should overpower any newer members, but it may offer guidance as I found from those prior to me to speak our minds even if our opinions differ. Nothing wrong with good debate, expect criticism, and don't take it personal when it doesn't go your way.
That doesn't mean my voice should overpower any newer members, but it may offer guidance as I found from those prior to me to speak our minds even if our opinions differ. Nothing wrong with good debate, expect criticism, and don't take it personal when it doesn't go your way.
Have you volunteered, participated in business or community organizations, helped in your neighborhood, etc.?
Over the years I participated in many economic, health and human service groups, and art and culture organizations. Serving from everything from presidents, board members, and volunteers serving food or picking up trash. My proudest would be co-founding the United Neighborhood Organization (UNO), which still stands strong today with many thanks to Shirley Davis, and serving on the board of the [former] North Adams CDC that helped financially support new small businesses back in the 1990s. Some of those business still exist today and grew to an impressive size.
If elected, what issue in particular, if any, would you push the council to address?
I've tried in the past to push tax incentives for those wishing to take on some of the worst residential blight in the city. The state makes it very difficult for cities our size to offer any unique tax incentives, but there are whispers other concepts could come. I would be very supportive for anything available for a first time home owner, a small general contractor or developer to get similar incentives we can give larger developers. Up to now the state has our hands tied. We should be ready to jump on it the moment something becomes available or think out of the box on how to attack the blight besides simply knocking it all down. That said, I would like to see stronger enforcement on the blight we have, which may require additional staff, land-court time, etc.
What experience or perspective would you bring to the council? *
My experience is years of being a target. Expect constant criticism, personal attacks, and they will even go after your family at times. You either decide it's not worth it, or your skin gets a little tougher. Family, friends, neighbors will not be happy with all your decisions. At the end you have to believe you made the right decision, and you may learn years later that wasn't the case.
It's very easy for those on the outside to critique and think when we raise taxes, or increase fees it's the easy way out. Far from it. We have many different demographics all wanting different things from baseball fields, school programs, senior groups, health and drug awareness, better roads, flowers along the roads, etc. The list goes on, and they all cost money. Our job is to review what the mayor brings us and come up with a compromise of what we wish we can do and what we can afford. Just like a tight home budget, everyone isn't going to get what they want, especially if the roof and furnace need to be replaced. Tough decisions have to be made and not easy when we have one of the lowest tax bills in the state (11th from the bottom out of 351 cities and towns) and everyone wants us to have what other communities that charge two and three times more have.
It's very easy for those on the outside to critique and think when we raise taxes, or increase fees it's the easy way out. Far from it. We have many different demographics all wanting different things from baseball fields, school programs, senior groups, health and drug awareness, better roads, flowers along the roads, etc. The list goes on, and they all cost money. Our job is to review what the mayor brings us and come up with a compromise of what we wish we can do and what we can afford. Just like a tight home budget, everyone isn't going to get what they want, especially if the roof and furnace need to be replaced. Tough decisions have to be made and not easy when we have one of the lowest tax bills in the state (11th from the bottom out of 351 cities and towns) and everyone wants us to have what other communities that charge two and three times more have.
How would you reach out to constituents? Do you use Facebook or other methods?
The same as I always have. The downside of being a downtown store owner is everyone knows where I am and in between customers checking out I get residents bringing in their concerns and complaints. Most of the time its phone calls, messaging, or in person. Getting stopped in the market is also a common place which I don't mind as long as my wife isn't waiting for me to bring home dinner. I try to keep my responses on facebook to only factual data, actual ordinances or law when replying to posts I see are questions or incorrect comments. Other than that I mostly keep my personal posts positive online, but happy to discuss and debate all the hard questions anywhere else.
What City Council committee would you most be interested in serving on?
I've served all and will be happy to go where ever the future president decides.
The city's infrastructure continues to be a major challenge, particularly the obsolete public safety building. How do you think the incoming administration should deal with this?
Head on. The City Council has been pushing this more than the past three administrations I served under, but the move needs to come from the administration. It's been long enough and I believe the council would support what is needed, but will the voters if it requires their vote for additional spending? That I don't know.
Do you see your role on the council as being more of an activist on issues or rather being responsive to administration or constituent proposals?
Split, depending on the issues that come in front of us. I don't agree when national issues are brought to us to vote on. We were elected for local government, and other politicians are elected for their jobs. I'm happy to stand out for a cause, donate to a campaign, show my support in other ways, but I don't like using the council meetings for issues outside local governance. If it affects us locally I will weigh in. We are a non-partisan government body and should consider that when representing all the citizens in that chamber.
Do you think city government is transparent enough in its processes? Could it be better?
Always room for improvement. I hope as technology makes it easier we can put more online easier and faster. However office staff in every department is smaller, and we demand more from them, and entering and uploading does take time. There are programs that make this easier, but comes with a cost. Some don't realize councilors are also their own administrative assistants, and while running their committee meetings, also need to take the minutes and get them submitted in a timely manner otherwise someone may call the state complaining we broke laws if we are late. I'm typically good with doing the minutes but it takes me three hours to type a one-hour meeting. Typing skills are a bonus for this job ... lol
What is the city's biggest challenge?
Getting others to understand a city is costly to operate. Giving everyone what they want and staying within budget. There will always be complaints about the lack of something and hearing they pay enough taxes it should all be covered. It simply isn't true. I enjoy researching history and this is nothing new with North Adams going back to the 1800s. When you break down all the pie pieces the city offers and consider the amount you pay for each portion, it's not a lot. We pay more for our cable or phones than we do most of the services the city offers. An average student starting school today will cost the city over $300,000 until they graduate. One neighbood street paved with new pipes can be several million dollars depending on length. Right now we spent $300,000 to replace 50 hydrants. It all comes with a cost. A lifetime of one's residential property taxes barely touch a fraction of any of those figures. We constantly hear "cut the budget," followed by "why don't we have this?" People may understand it, but don't want to believe it. Easier to think if they see a DPW worker eating lunch in the truck or an officer on the phone it's millions of dollars being wasted and if we fix that their taxes should drop. I wish it was that easy.
What is the city's biggest opportunity?
New investment. In the past few years investors are looking at North Adams more than they have in half a century. We have longtime local developers along with new outside investors purchasing vacant properties. We are seeing a surge of new residents both full and second homeowners making upgrades to homes and neighborhoods. I believe the city needs stronger communications with all the investors and developers small to large and get a real sense of what their plan is, how does it work with current residents, and how can the city help improve results for everyone. At the end we want to see more jobs, stronger values in property, and logistically make sure the city can handle any additional demands from traffic, utilities, staffing of our own departments, etc.
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