Dennis Sullivan, 2011 Alderman 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 most proud of my neighborhood office hours which give citizens an opportunity to speak to me face to face in their neighborhoods. In fact, I have conducted over one hundred office hours since being elected in different neighborhoods across the city.

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

a) Continue to fight for a domestic violence policy for the city of Somerville.
b) Continue to ensure tax payers' money is spent wisely.
c) Continue to advocate improved senior services.

3. What are your ideas about ways to work to keep Somerville affordable for families of all income levels?

I have supported raising the percentage of inclusionary housing developers have to build when building new units. Also, I have supported increased linkage money that commercial developers pay to the affordable housing trust fund. I would take a look at adjusting these rates to improve the amount of affordable housing.

4. Do you support ordinances to promote local jobs for local residents and if so please describe how you would go about supporting these kinds of efforts.

YES. I have walked the picket line at the MAX PAX site earlier this year. In the past, I walked the picket line for Shaws workers. I cosponsored the responsible employer ordinance which passed in 2008 when I was Board President. I also successfully introduced resolutions supporting the workers at Shaws. Last week I received the endorsement of the Greater Boston Labor Council as I did in the last three elections. In 2008, I was the recipient of the Greater Boston Labor Council Municipal Leadership award. Last election, I received the endorsement of the SEIU. Last year, I supported the SEIU school custodians when their jobs were at risk.

5. Do you support plans to have a Wal-mart open in Assembly Square? Why or why not?

I have serious concerns of WAL-Mart’s labor practices. I need more information before I give a definitive answer.

6. Why are you the progressive choice in your race?

I am pro-choice, pro same sex marriage, support transgender rights and support organized labor.

7. Which progressive candidates have you supported in the last five years?

I was proud to vote for Rebekah Gerwirtz for President of the Board of Alderman last year. I have supported Governor Patrick, Attorney General Martha Coakley, and Senator Patricia Jehlen.

8. What is your stance on the Green line extension through Somerville?

I support it fully. I have testified at public hearings at the State House and City Hall in support of the Green Line. I have co-sponsored BOA resolutions that have passed also.

9. What else should we know about your candidacy?

I was honored to have your endorsement in the last election for the first time in fourteen years of elected office. I would be honored to have it again.