Ayles: Looks to Maintain Healthy Growth and Community Values

Name: Bryant Ayles

Age: 36

Street: Hale Street

Family: Wife, Ericka; daughter, Bridget, 7; daughter, Nola, 5; son, Thomas, 2

Employment: Deputy Director of the Massachusetts Children’s Trust Fund, an organization that leads statewide efforts to prevent child abuse and neglect by supporting parents and strengthening families across Massachusetts. 

Political and community experience and involvement: Upon graduation from business school, I began my career traveling Massachusetts performing financial and programmatic audits of school districts.  Visiting numerous municipalities provided me a strong understanding of municipal finance and governance structures.  At the organization I currently work, we do a lot of community work, building knowledge and capacity within those communities to deliver quality programming in support of families and children.  I am also involved with advocacy, legislation and policy work at the state level which affects every community, including Beverly. 

Why are you running for City Council?

Beverly has enjoyed sustained progress over the last decade and this year will be one of significant change in our city government.  It is critical that we maintain this healthy growth and our community values as we move forward.  That is why I am running.  It is so important that we elect officials with the skills and experience needed to continue our progress this November.

What is the most significant issue facing Ward 2?

It is difficult to isolate just one issue as the most significant.  I suppose that depends on where in the Ward you live.  Certainly the potential for development on the waterfront on both sides of the bridge will have a significant impact on our neighborhood for decades to come.  In addition, the resurfacing of Rantoul Street will require much attention and will impact a large part of the ward in the coming year.

Facing the city as a whole?

How the Brimbal Avenue rezoning is decided will have an effect throughout the City. There are significant repercussions that will need to be dealt with either way the Council rules. 

How would you address these issues?  

First and foremost I view this position as a voice of the Ward, an advocate for my neighbors and as a steward of the best interests of Ward 2.  The issues facing our ward need to be handled in a transparent way.  My ears will always be open, and I will bring my experience as being a thoughtful decision maker and a consensus builder to the table at the council, and when talking with neighbors about their concerns. My neighbors will have a voice at the table every step of every project!  As for the City issue, should the council rule in favor, we all know that translates to some development in the area and potential for traffic, parking and commuting concerns.  I would offer all of my skills and experiences to the council and planning board to help alleviate the impact on the surrounding areas, and would hope that in turn as issues arise in our Ward, they would do the same.  Should the council vote against the zoning overlay, my efforts would be focused more on looking into financing options for some critical investments such as a new public safety facility and road and sidewalk repairs.

For the first time in 20 years, Mayor Bill Scanlon is not seeking election. Do you support one of the candidates? If so, who? If not, how do you see yourself working with the new mayor as part of the City Council?

In my view all of the mayoral candidates have admirable qualities. I have come to know and appreciate all of them in various ways. Because I value a strong work ethic, Wes has always held my admiration and he has demonstrated a dedication and responsiveness to our Ward these past six years.  Rick’s desire for transparency in government is something I have spent my entire career in various capacities implementing, and lastly, Mike demonstrates a solid commitment to the betterment of families and children through his current role with the YMCA’s - a commitment I share with him each day I go to work.  I am excited to offer my unique skills to the Mayor’s office regardless of who that may be come January. My background in municipal, state, federal and non-profit finance along with my experience in strategic planning and long term business plan implementation are assets that this City needs at their disposal. An independent voice with a history of building productive working relationships is what I would bring in this role.

What is the greatest accomplishment of outgoing Ward 2 Councilor Wes Slate? What is one thing Slate did that you disagreed with or would have done differently?

It is not always the issue that gets covered in the paper or generates the biggest turnout at a council meeting that is necessarily the most important or vital one for a City. I think that is very true with some of Wes’s work that took place over his three terms. Particularly his work, along with others, performing a thorough review of the 400 pages of City ordinances. A necessary and important task that helped ensure the laws and regulations enacted by our city continue to be useful and appropriate. As for what I would do differently, I know moving forward I will place a significant priority on the repair of our roads and sidewalks, I understand this priority took a back seat over the past decade, but I will raise it up again to where it needs to be.  It is an investment that will benefit our citizens, our business and attract visitors and shoppers.  

Please add anything else that you want voters to know.

As a Beverly native with children in the school system I am committed to the betterment of our great City. I also understand the importance of transparency in government and as a property tax payer, I am committed to ensuring we invest our money wisely and in support of a long term vision.  Feel free to call or E-mail me with any questions at ayles4ward2@yahoo.com or 978-232-3533.  I would appreciate your vote this coming election.