Arciero Talks Redistricting Chelmsford, Business Issues

Did you miss yesterday's ? No worries -- we have details on everything you missed.

Redistricting

Comment from Leo: There has been a push in Chelmsford over the past few years to redistrict so that Chelmsford has one state rep (or less state reps) instead of its current four state reps. That didn't happen during the redistricting...how come?

Comment From James Arciero: I was the only member of the Chelmsford delegation to support independent redistricting to take the politics out of the process.

Comment From James Arciero: I was one of seven Democrats in the state to side with the Republicans on independent redistricting commission.

I don't think I endeared myself to legislative leadership. My state house office is still in the basement! But I upheld my pledge to the voters of chelmsford.

Business

Comment From Peggy: What can be done at the state level to attract (and keep) businesses like Kronos in Chelmsford? It's good for our community to bring jobs here.

James Arciero: The Route 110 corridor in Littleton, Westford and Chelmsford has exploded in economic activity over the last four years

James Arciero: This has been a team effort with Boards of Selectmen, Town Managers and the Legislative Delegation.

James Arciero: Specifically, investments in necessary infrastructure to accomodate the growing workforce to attract businesses and keep business here

Unemployment

Comment From Wallace: Unemployment numbers have been Chelmsford's unemployment rate just fell to below 5%. What do you attribute that to and how can we keep the momentum going?

James Arciero: First, we have instituted necessary reforms in transportation and pensions, Wallace.

James Arciero:  The Commonwealth's unemployment rate is at 6.3 percent and continues to buck the national trend.

James Arciero: we lead the nation in biotech and high tech growth, and in particular, the district I represent has become a microcosm of high tech economic activity.

Chelmsford's Needs

Comment From Charlotte: What do you see as some of the top priorities that need to be addressed in Chelmsford?
James Arciero: The Chelmsford delegation continues to fight for increased Chapter 70 aid and local aid.
James Arciero: Chelmsford has been drastically underfunded and the Chapter 70 formula needs to be overhauled.
James Arciero: I will continue to work with the rest of the Chelmsford delegation to increase aid for Chelmsford. The House budget this fiscal year appropriated over half a million in Chapter 70 and local aid.

Affordable Housing

Comment From Steve: What are we going to do about affordable housing in this state? 40B is flawed but we need something to help the people who need it.
James Arciero:  Steve, first and foremost, there was a ballot question in 2000 to eliminate 40B that I supported, but failed.
James Arciero:  I think it needs to be completely overhauled while giving cities and towns more local control, but providing opportunities for individuals like municipal workers to live in the town they grew up in.

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