Cheryl Gordon Seeks Open Framingham District 5 Council Seat

FRAMINGHAM, MA — The Framingham District 5 Council seat is one of two open races in 2021.

Candidates Noval Alexander and Cheryl Gordon are vying for the seat held by Robert Case, who declined to run for the seat again. Case first won the seat in 2019, defeating Alexander by under 100 votes.

We asked both Gordon and Alexander to answer four questions about why they're running in 2021, and what they would do with a Council seat. Here's what Gordon said:

Why did you decide to run for City Council this year?

I love Framingham, and as a lifelong, multi-generational resident, I feel it is my duty to advocate for our residents and give back via local participation. With so few people interested in running for local office, I wanted voters to have options. I am prepared for the role of City Councilor, having watched most City Council meetings since inception as a city as well as attending and participating in Zoning Board and Planning Board meetings for decades and having a knowledgeable and historic perspective. As a mom of two children, one who just graduated from FHS and is attending FSU and one in the 8th grade at Fuller, I care deeply about the quality of education we provide. As a homeowner, I personally feel the pain of water rate and real estate tax increases. As a pragmatist, I aim to ensure that our hard-earned tax dollars are responsibly spent on essential services that directly benefit our residents. As a person with a physical injury that impacts my mobility, I believe the Council needs a voice for true inclusiveness and accessibility. Access to new structures built with taxpayer funds should be truly accessible, without the need for excessive stairs and long ramps off to the side that cause individuals or children with physical challenges to have to access the building in a different way from their peers. To learn more about me, visit my Facebook page.

What's the biggest issue facing District 5 right now and what do you intend to do about it?

While I would like to hear from residents on what their greatest concerns are, an obvious issue facing District 5 right now is the nearly daily traffic jam on Route 9 backed up beyond Lockland, sometimes as far as Walmart. We also need much safer crosswalks and lighting at the Route 9/Prospect Street intersection to make this area safer for pedestrians due to residential properties surrounding this area (in my opinion, it’s one of the least walkable shopping areas). When we support growth and development (I am excited about the new Whole Foods expansion and the addition of other amenities), we need to plan for safe pedestrian access from every direction. If I am elected, I will ask to have this item added to a council agenda and ask the Council Chair to convene a conversation between our city engineer, state DOT, our public safety division, the Mayor, and our local delegation to come up with specific goals and a timeline for improvements.

Can you name one transportation priority for District 5 you have?

I have ideas, but I would rather hear from the taxpayers and residents on what THEY would like to see prioritized since this is supposed to be a representative form of government. Residents & taxpayers, please reach out to me with what YOU consider a transportation priority for District 5.

How will you work with either a new mayor or the incumbent to get things accomplished in 2022 and beyond?

I have considered Candidate Sisitsky a friend since the 80s. Additionally, I have a friendly rapport with Mayor Yvonne Spicer. If elected, I will have a respectful working relationship with the Nov. 2 winner.