Vote Medford 2007

Marks: (Q11) Analysis and Action Plan for Medford Parks

Even the smallest crime is a blight upon our city. And yet, I must point out that Medford has more than 25 parks, that the City, in my opinion, makes a strong effort to maintain them, and that there is much open space in the city. I am the first to call out for more police presence, but I also feel as though this is a great opportunity for Medford citizens to become more proactive in taking care of their city . That begins in creating a good role model at home by disposing of trash properly, for example. In schools, teachers and other figures of authority should be proactive in making sure that word goes out that there is a zero-tolerance for any type of vandalism. The best way to counter-act vandalism to create close relationships among those who are thought to commit the crimes, and those thought to have an influence in stopping the criminals from causing damage. Whether that is parent/child, clergy/congregation, teacher/student does not matter. The word must go out that there is a link between personal and community responsibility.

Marks: (Q12) Improving Environmental & Recycling Practice

The city needs to lead by example and business and residents will follow suit. It is important not only to create a recycling program but to report back to the community on the tangible benefits, cost-savings, and models for improvement. I would increase awareness and communication on all levels, such as in recycling in our schools and at home, to encourage particpation. We could offer incentives to businesses that take an active role in recycling. For example, we could approach management of area supermarkets about finding environment-friendly alternatives to the use of plastic bags.    

Marks: (Q13) Water Department Issues

In a recent issue of the Medford Transcript, I wrote a column detailing my past achievements and my plans for improving the physical infrastructure and creating a multi-tier system for charging residents for water and sewer. In that article I advised that we repair leaking pipes, get rid of illegal catch basins, and institute a rate that would charge based on water used, i.e., residential rates and commercial rates.

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.

Marks: (Q15) Improving and Protecting Open Space in Medford

The skein of funding and management of three properties is vast. Soliciting local, state, and federal grants to sustain all three is worthy. Bringing in money is what makes everything else possible. When management for each of these areas is working in sync, you can then start thinking about preservation, water security, and maintenance of trails.

I know there are conflicts occurring between public and private interests relating to these areas. I am thinking of one that wished to make use of a large empty building. These conflicts must be resolved before the rest of us can move forward in either developing or otherwise making best use of the space. The City Council could create a council liaison to ensure that out protected areas remain protected.