5 Questions For: Leora Mallach, District 7 City Council Candidate

FRAMINGHAM, MA — In 2021, the only Framingham City Council race on the Sept. 14 primary ballot is the contest for the open District 7 seat. Patch has sent each of the four candidates a questionnaire to help voters get to know them better.

Two of the four District 7 candidates will go on to compete in the November election to replace sitting Councilor Margareth Basilio Shepard, who is stepping down after two terms representing the downtown-area. The four candidates running for the seat are Magda Janus, Eugene Grzywna, Joseph Hansberry and Leora Rose Mallach.

Here's what Mallach says about her 2021 run and her stance on local issues:

Why are you running for City Council in 2021?

I am running for City Council because I believe that civic engagement strengthens our community. I am sensitive to the social and economic diversity of our district and it is my goal to establish lines of communication between our local government, residents and business owners. I think City Councilors are responsible both for raising up district specific issues to the City level, and for communicating City resources to residents. As a newer Framingham resident, I bring a new voice, a forward thinking voice, to our City Council. You can find out more about my campaign here

The City Council has approved and extended a multifamily housing moratorium. Where do you stand on that issue, and what do you think residential development should look like in Framingham?

I think all development in Framingham should be driven by thoughtful engagement with the 2015 Land Use Master Plan. It was updated in 2020 and can be found here.

I think conversations and decisions about residential development must be done holistically, looking city wide, and also considering economic development opportunities and challenges. We must work in collaboration and communication with professionals. We need more affordable housing in Framingham, and in MetroWest. I am concerned that too much of an extension of a multifamily housing moratorium will cause Framingham to develop a reputation as resistant to change and development.

As a City Council member, how would you go about working with the mayor's office?

Since I have started this campaign I have reached out and spoken with City staff in a variety of departments and levels of responsibility. Staff have been willing to connect and I appreciate their time and commitment. As a City Councilor, I intend to work with the Mayor’s office and city staff as needed, in a spirit of common purpose, to represent District 7.

When was the last time you rode a MWRTA bus? Following up on that, how do you think transit should be improved/changed in Framingham?

When I was looking to buy a house, I prioritized living within a one-mile radius to a commuter rail station, as I consider that a walkable distance. For the first couple of years I regularly took the commuter rail to my office in downtown Boston. I have not ridden an MWRTA bus, although I am an advocate of public transportation options. We need investment in the infrastructure development of public transit, and also bike paths and pedestrian walkways.

What's your favorite restaurant in Framingham and why?

Jack’s Abby. It’s close to my house, has great beer, and are big supporters of our local Framingham community. It’s a win for everyone! Throughout the pandemic we have seen them balance their business priorities alongside community health and safety. They have done an excellent job communicating their changing dining options, as well as the reasons behind it.