Why I’m running
As Salem approaches its 400th year, I look at us as the leader for hope, empathy, and innovation that the country needs right now. What we do locally matters and, if it’s done well, it ripples out to other communities. I want to continue to build a Salem that works for everyone who lives here. As the father of two small children, I know that what we do today can protect their future and that is something I am willing to do at any cost. I sweat the small stuff. I always have. As your Ward 2 Councillor (Salem spells it this way, I promise), I will ensure that your needs are met, your problems are heard, and your voice is amplified.
The Not-So-Big Ask
This is not a typical campaign. I believe that small amounts, added together, should be the only way a candidate raises money. No special interests and no single person, or entity, is greater than another. So, while I’m taking donations, I am not accepting anything over $29. This is, as far as I can tell, the average hourly wage in Salem, MA. Want to give more? Tell your friends, family, doesn’t matter who it is, but have someone else give their $29 after you’ve maxed out. And, you can always give less. But one way to think of it is…
You give me an hour, I’ll give you a future.
Donations can also be made by check (to avoid any fees) made out to:
Smith Election Committee
12 Gifford Ct
Salem, MA 01970
Building Salem’s Future, Together
Here are some other larger visions that I have for Salem. I want to note that this is a living document and that I am always open to suggestions and listening to my neighbors who may see this differently. I don’t have all the answers (said no politician ever…), but I’m willing to find them collectively.
At the forefront of all of this is that I am accessible and available. I will always answer the calls and emails of my constituents.
Grow
Growth of our city is key to its longevity. Our proposed budget for next year requires growth to be possible.
At the center of this is quality affordable housing, which means something different to everybody. To me it means:
- Championing supportive housing efforts like Harborlight/ Lifebridge
- Ensuring those who want to develop put our city needs first (sustainability, walkability, and historic preservation)
- Investing in our city’s land trust
Stronger
A city is only as strong as its workers of today and its children of the future. As a delegate to the Northshore Labor Council, I have workers rights at the forefront of my mind, present and future. Therefore we should:
- Ensure the wind terminal goes forward
- Use PLAs and local labor for most new housing and our new high school
- Reclassify city employees as union when possible
- Keep our schools focused on jobs of the future
- Create new business districts near existing housing
Together
Our city is a city of empathy, tolerance, and forward-thinking. I am committed to these ideals and will:
- Stand up for our newest American neighbors by reaffirming our commitment to being a sanctuary city
- Find ways we can use tourism to better serve our city rather than overburdening it
- Plan creatively for the environmental impacts of climate change
- Better connect residents with the city through AI technology
Join me in Shaping Salem’s Future
Get involved today—sign up, subscribe, or learn about my vision to create lasting change in Ward 2 and beyond. Together, we can make a difference.
Reach out to me anytime:
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