11/4/2023
Dear residents of Annisquam, Bayview, Lanesville, and Riverdale,
My name is Mary Pat DeRosa, and I bought my home in Lanesville about 15 years ago. Since then, I enjoy my time at the Cove, exploring Dogtown, the quarries and walking the trails with my dog. I am running for Ward 4 City Councilor because I want to strengthen our city government so that it’s more responsive to residents’ needs.
I am retired IT project manager and have worked for Fortune 100 & 500 companies managing multi-million-dollar projects, contracts and teams. Currently I work as a property manager for senior and low-income housing in Manchester, Mass.
I will use my professional management skills to ensure that budgets, proposals, and projects meet pre-determined community needs and goals set by residents. I will also make every effort to hold monthly in person Ward 4 meetings to discuss all city business with you, gather your feedback on issues, and use that information for my city voting responsibilities. As Ward 4 councilor, I will represent your interests, not mine, at city meetings because that is how I believe the job should be done.
The proposed Affordable Housing solution, also known as the MBTA mandated zoning, is a state program that imposes denser zoning near MBTA stations. It is not “affordable” any more than any other housing in town. It will be market price. This model does not work for our local population as seen by the Gloucester Crossing Halyard apartments where a 1- bedroom rents for $2450 per month. The denser zoning means more parking, more school children, and more water, sewer, police, and fire requirements.
As Ward 4 councilor, I will work with the Mayor and the city council to explore a locally administered housing model that serves our community.
Many Ward 4 residents are rightfully concerned about city spending and taxes. As a project manager with budget experience, I will study budget and contract expenditures and streamline them where practical. Just like residents manage their housing budgets to live within their means, the city must do the same.
The proposed waste water treatment plant is a pending financial tidal wave with a proposed cost of $150 million or more. This cost will be spread out over the entire real estate tax base and not just those residents with sewers. We know we need it. We know it’s federally mandated, but the issue is the additional tax burden on all of us. I see neighbors forced to sell their family homes and leave the island because of the additional costs. I will work with the Mayor and city council to identify possible financial solutions to minimize the financial burden on residents.
If my message resonates with you, I am asking you to please vote for me, Mary Pat DeRosa, for Ward 4 City Councilor on Tuesday, Nov 7th. I want to be your voice.
If you have any questions or would like a ride to the polls, please contact me at ward4derosa@gmail.com or call 508-284-2418.
Mary Pat DeRosa
Good Morning Gloucester 