I love Northampton. Unlike many of our representatives, I don’t think the city needs a massive overhaul, but a common sense reallocation of resources to support the issues and infrastructure that are most important to the people who live here. My career trajectory and experiences make me a uniquely qualified candidate to support this bright future for our city.

• City Hall has a communication problem. From an inaccessible government that’s consistently hostile to public feedback to the undeniable insidiousness of “civility” politics, there has been a breakdown in transparency and access. I worked for seven years in live radio broadcasting, first as a producer for a sustainability and organic farming internet station, then as a reporter, contributor, and writer and host of nightly news radio. I know the facts, the policies, the landscape. I take research seriously. I believe in the value of live communication and accurate information. I have years of experience taking calls from the public. I also know a rightwing talking point when I hear one and will not abide messaging manipulation.

• I hear again and again from fellow Northamptonians that they are eager to build something here. Northampton attracts and creates creators, but we have recently seen neighboring cities pick up the mantle. As an artist and filmmaker, I have led and encouraged countless crews and collaborators to have confidence and courage in their own creativity. I’ve felt that thrill of being a part of something that pushes everyone to go beyond their best and I know how delicate that momentum can be. I pride myself on being able to see and describe what others are envisioning and in my ability to see more in people than they may see in themselves. I am passionate about harnessing the creative energy of a community to improve it organically for everyone.

• The closure and deterioration of Northampton’s historic venues is at the heart of downtown’s downturn. I worked for a decade in nightlife and live music, working light boards and laser light projectors everywhere from repurposed warehouses to legendary nightclubs, from bars, basements and bandstands to the Bonnaroo music festival. I have worked with hundreds of performers, musicians, DJs, and artists. For a dynamic, exciting, and truly Northampton downtown to reemerge, we have to bring the music back. I know what performers need to feel welcome and supported once again. I know what events, venues, and dance floors need to truly thrive—which will enrich our hardworking restaurants, bars, cafes, stores, and other businesses whose revenue relies on foot traffic.

We need to end the costly consultant culture and outsourcing of Northampton’s government. It is classist and corrupting, but more than anything, it reflects our leaders’ lack of belief in their own abilities and, more importantly, in all of ours. The people of Northampton are eager, intelligent, and raring to go; they know exactly what they need and they’re more than happy to talk about it. Above all, they need a government that trusts them and will give them the tools to make a better, brighter city. I know I can do this. I know you can, too. Working together, we can save this city we love.