Vote Medford 2007

Full Text: (Q14) Medford & Tufts

How would you describe Medford's relationship with Tufts University? Do you think improvements could be made, and where do you see opportunities for partnerships between Medford and Tufts? Please be specific.

Arena: (Q14) Medford & Tufts

I believe the relationship between Tufts University and the City of Medford is as close as it has been in our joint history. There is always room for improvement and this starts with keeping the communication lines open, particularly in the neighborhoods that abut the university. Many of us do not realize that the Tufts Medford campus employs more than 2,193 people at a gross annual salary of $126.7 million dollars, of which 377 are Medford residents with a gross annual salary of $19.8 million dollars. This results in a huge economic impact in our community. I would propose a closer partnership between the leadership of Tufts University and the city's administration, requesting input regarding the Green Line expansion as well as the proposed Medford Square revitalization.

Burke: (Q14) Medford & Tufts

I believe that Medford continues to shy away from being a "university town" and does not utilize all of the resources that Tufts could offer. I had suggested that a representative from Tufts be on the Medford Square Revitalization Committee (Mrs. Bacow perhaps) which was "taken under advisement" by the Mayor. Medford has provided great services to this institution (new boat house site at Rivers Edge) However, I feel that Tufts does not offer the transparency that we have asked for in how it allocates its "resources" to Medford's children that are admitted to this institution. I requested some 6 months ago a listing of the number of students from MHS that applied to Tufts, the number admitted, the number accepted and the scholarship offered by Tufts to those admitted. We have yet to receive this report by the University. Tufts was just listed in the Boston Business Journal (9/21/07) as having the 6th largest college endowment in the state of $1.5 billion.

I suggest a more open communication be explored by Tufts University and the City Council and School system regarding Medford students and provide advice and guidance regarding admittance to this prestigious institution.

Camuso: (Q14) Medford & Tufts

Medford has a good relationship with Tufts University. The university has been very helpful to the city on many matters. Tufts and the schools partner on many projects. They have also contributed to several municipal initiatives. I will always stay vigilant to ensure that Tufts is respectful of it neighbors and that they are responsive to issues that emerge on campus which could adversely affect the community. Tufts has and can continue to be an important contributor to the historical, artistic, and cultural life of our community.

Chamberlain: (Q14) Medford & Tufts

I believe that Medford must have an open and positive relationship with Tufts University. It is a well known and respected institution that calls Medford home for many years. I would promote a plan that would create a proposed unity plan for education that would bring the city of Medford and Tufts University together to plan the new Medford high school project. Bringing together the newest technology with the young people of Medford to create the premier educational facility with no need for extra tax dollars. I don’t believe it would happen fast however it is an idea that is worth pursuing.

Dello Russo: (Q14) Medford & Tufts

Medford and Tufts are both wide and varied entities. Tufts is a large, rich and ever expanding institution with many goals. Medford people benefit from the treasure of academic and cultural opportunities the university has to offer. Our school system has benefited from the assistance of Tuft’s education department and students who are among the brightest in our country. We benefit from the use of athletic facilities. Communication of goals for the neighborhood around Tufts needs improvement. The city and Tufts might want to explore greater collaboration for urban planning and development. We will want to continue to strengthen our public safety collaboration.

Lungo: (Q14) Medford & Tufts

I believe that our relationship with Tufts university is very good, but as with everything, there is always room for improvement. Tufts does so much for the community when it comes to hosting events and sharing their wealth of knowledge with us through the schools.

The area that of course could be improved upon, which would help a great deal, is the financial aspect. We provide Tufts with so many city services and it would be nice if they could donate more money to Medford in the areas where it is needed, such as our schools. It would also be nice if Tufts could be more generous when it comes to providing our residents with the opportunity to attend tufts university. Tufts currently accepts Medford Students, but not the amount we would like. We have such intelligent Teenagers in our city and it would be beneficial to them if more spots were open to attend such a prestigious university.

Maiocco: (Q14) Medford & Tufts

Tufts University is an asset to Medford. It provides a valued source of employment to many of our residents. The city should utilize the engineering school’s expertise, use more of the University athletic facilities and encourage students’ volunteer activities in the community.

Marks: (Q14) Medford & Tufts

I am the consensus candidate. As such, I know that there is much bridge-building ahead in our relationship with Tufts University. The secret to this is to recognize that Tufts must recognize the strength Medford lends it, and Medford must recognize the strength gained from Tufts. We provide city services to Tufts; they, with their fine reputation, provide good public relations for us. However, there has to be some acknowledgement that, at times, expenditure of resources is uneven. As someone who looks out for my constituents, I have to ensure that there is affordable housing in Medford. Do I think Tufts' priorities are the same? No, and I'm not saying that is bad; as a university, Tufts' priorities are naturally different from mine, which focus upon the non-student population, notably the poor or elderly. So, for example, if Tufts is actively seeking housing for professors that could be used for the elderly, you will hear from me. It does not mean that I think they are doing anything wrong, merely that I need to provide for the citizens of Medford in the way that I was elected to do.

Penta: (Q14) Medford & Tufts

Medford's relationship has greatly improved over the past few years. Like any relationship, one has to nurture it for success and contined success.. We are a very gifted City to have such an excellent educational giant in the midst of our community, By exploring all that Tufts is and what it is capable of as an institution needs to be understood before one I would recommend d further. So much of what is feasible remains within the administrative prerogative of the City.