Vote Medford 2007

Arena: (Q1) Affordable Housing

I'm not sure I agree with the premise that people are leaving or bypassing Medford. Medford is a vibrant community and its demographics are changing all the time. If there are some who truly cannot afford to rent or buy a home here, it is my guess that those same people are finding it difficult to rent or buy a home in all or most of the suburban communities of the same size and proximity to Boston as Medford. I would support an amendment to the use regulations of our zoning ordinances to provide affordable housing for low or moderate-income households to ensure that affordable housing is made available on an equal basis to all eligible households.

Arena: (Q2) Making Medford Safe for Pedestrians & Cyclists

There is no question that the infrastructure at Wellington Circle is in need of a major infusion of capital investment. More than 25 years ago then Governor Edward King came to Medford and expressed support for a redesign of Wellington Circle. Since then, not much has changed except the volume of traffic has increased dramatically. Only major changes in the configuration of the several roads intersecting at Wellington, such as an over or under pass, could we ever hope to safely accommodate the ever increasing volume of vehicular traffic here, with safer walking and biking through the area as natural byproducts. Medford's streets and roadways were constructed many years ago, and major changes are unrealistic. If an affordable engineering proposal could introduce safe walking and biking through our city, it would win my support provided such a plan would not complicate existing heavy traffic zones.

Arena: (Q3) Encouraging Diversity in Medford City Government

Medford is a very diverse community. It would be dishonest to suggest that the road to diverse participation in government can be accomplished without sacrifices, and disappointments, similar to the ones that our ancestors encountered as immigrants to this country. I believe we have a very diverse city government which reflects our city's demographics, however, we can always do better. Medford boasts a rich and proud history of electing individuals of diverse backgrounds.

Arena: (Q4) Candidate Action Plan for Green Line Extension

Yes, I do support the concept of introducing the Green Line to Medford. There are still many unanswered questions regarding this project. Of the proposals discussed, the Boston Ave and College Ave site at Tufts University warrants further study. Most of the property from Harvard Street to the athletic campus is university owned. There is no question that this project will greatly enhance the University. Parking is at an ultra premium and the property abutting this site could certainly support additional off street parking. This would certainly alleviate the anxiety of residents and businesses in West Medford, an area that already hosts a commuter rail stop as well as several bus routes traversing its streets. If elected, I will work with the proper authorities to develop a concept that will be acceptable to our neighborhoods and at the same time bring relief to our already overcrowded streets.

Arena: (Q5) Priorities for Medford Square Revitalization

Parking is and always will be a major concern in Medford Square. We have limited space for the introduction of off street parking facilities, other than the one planned for Governors Avenue. One of the greatest attractions our city has to offer, besides its great history, is the Mystic River. I support the suggestion that a so-called river walk be introduced. I would support mixed use of the properties fronting on Medford Square's main streets. However, without provision for adequate off street parking, the residential use of the upper floors of commercial buildings is unrealistic. I will continue to work with our business community as well as our city and state officials to mitigate these important components of our master plan.

Arena: (Q6) South Medford

Fortunately, the Kennedy-Lincoln School parcel is poised for redevelopment. The proposed municipal parking area on Yale Street should mitigate some of the concerns in this densely populated area of our city. I will continue to work with the residents as well as the businesses of South Medford to address these issues and preserve the quality of life in this proud neighborhood.

Arena: (Q7) Investing in Medford's Historical Resources

On its face, a bond initiative appears to be a painless vehicle for the funding of worthwhile projects, and surely the promotion and protection of Medford's proud history and properties are a worthwhile project. I would work with our state delegation to promote a bond initiative, provided the bottom line does not result it an increased financial burden upon our city's taxpayers.

Arena: (Q8) Arts & Culture for Medford Revitalization

Given the tight fiscal climate, it is unrealistic to suggest that we make further sacrifice to fund the introduction of even the most worthwhile cultural-revitalization. However, we have seen the economic impact a facility like the Chevalier Theater has had in our community and beyond. Since the city's contributions to this facility have been nominal at best, as a city councilor I will work with John Costas and the Chevalier Commission to promote and foster a cultural-friendly atmosphere in Medford and reach out to our banks and corporate entities in our borders to encourage private investment in this jewel on Forest Street.

Arena: (Q9) Budget Transparency

Under our Plan A form of government, the preparation and presentation of the municipal budget, including the substantial school portion, are the exclusive responsibility of the Mayor and the School Committee. The complexities of the budget require a great deal of time by those responsible for it, and much of the information required for planning is not always available to the public until late in the process. Presentation to the council for review and approval is often too late and too little. I would recommend to the administration that budget hearings at all levels and for all departments be prominently advertised to afford opportunity for attendance by council members and interested members of the community. I would also reach out to the School Committee to meet quarterly with the City Council in joint convention to address potential budget short falls.

Arena: (Q10) GIC for Municipal Employees' Health Insurance?

I support any measure or process which can reduce the cost of health insurance. I am not on the city's health insurance plan and not therefore eligible to participate.