Jack Connolly, 2009 Alderman-At-Large Questionnaire Responses

1. What political or community activism accomplishments are you most proud of during your last term in office (or the last two years if you have not previously served)?

I am pleased to have been a part of the City of Somerville's presentation group that competed and won the 'All America' City Designation from the National League of Cities earlier this year.

2. What are your top three agenda priorities and how will you take action on these priorities?

A. Preserving Public Safety
B. Improving Public Education
C. Getting the Green Line and Assembly Square built

3. What do you think the City should do with the Powerhouse School?

Keep the school now; Possibly lease if beneficial to the city

4. Do you believe the City's charter should be changed? If so, what changes do you support?

Some minor changes ie. No Mandatory Republican on the License Commission.

5. What are your ideas for addressing Somerville's current budget crisis? Of the budget recommendations Mayor Curtatone currently is considering, please prioritize your top three.

Run the city like you handle your home and/or business; watch the overhead.

6. PDS has taken a position against expanding predatory gambling in Massachusetts as a way to increase state revenue and local aid. Do you agree with the position of PDS? Why or why not.

I am NOT in favor of subsidizing state and local government on gambling casino enterprises. It is NOT in the best interests of the Commonwealth.

7. Why are you the progressive choice?

I have achieved 'proven progress' in my tenure as an elected official.

8. What will you do to ensure that the Green Line does not displace residents? What are your ideas for balancing affordable housing, business development, and creating/ preserving open space along the green line?

I cannot guarantee that some displacement will not occur, but I'm happy to preserve affordable housing efforts in all of our new and redeveloped properties. For an idea see Assembly Square on the Mystic as an example of how to develop business and create open space. The green line open space issue is more problematic. Station by station effort is needed at the neighborhood level.

9. What progressive candidates have you supported in the last five years?

President Obama, Mayor Curtatone, and Governor Deval Patrick among others.

10. What else should we know about your candidacy?

I'm among the best qualified and experienced people to do the job. I will expound further at your meeting.