Why I'm Running To Be Your Mayor: Brodeur

The following was submitted by Rep. Paul Brodeur. Let your voice be heard by signing up for a free account and posting.

I’m running for Mayor of Melrose because this city and its residents have given me so much more than a place to call home. They have given me a community and opportunities which have made me who I am today.

This campaign shouldn’t be about personalities or sound bites. This campaign really is about us as a community -- who we are, what we care about and where we’re going.

My first memory of Melrose is going to Mrs. McKinley’s kindergarten class at the old Roosevelt School, and boy was I scared. My four older brothers and sisters got me through those first weeks by checking in on me and, on occasion, bringing me back to the classroom when I ran away. I’m glad they did.

Fifty years later, Melrose is still my home and where my wife, Liz, and I are raising our sons, Ethan and Sam. Why? Because Melrose is a place which has helped and supported me and my family time and again.

Whether your family has been here for generations, or you have just moved here, everyone has a stake in our future. Every voice should be heard and we should work together to make Melrose stronger and truly "One Community, Open to All”. We need to address today’s concerns and plan for tomorrow’s opportunities. That is why I am running to be your Mayor.

It matters that we have schools that meet the needs of all learners, whatever those needs may be. Both in and out of the classroom, our young people must get the resources and support they need and deserve.

It matters that we support our small businesses, enhance the “Main Street” experience, and find innovative solutions to promote economic development. The community has embraced events which have brought vibrancy and excitement to our commercial districts and across the city. As Mayor, I will leverage this momentum by branding Melrose as a city of arts and culture. We need more public art, more live music and creative ways of reimagining our downtown.

Open, clear and consistent communication matters. As Mayor, I will provide timely information about the budget and city services in easy-to-find and easy-to-understand formats on the city website, in regular city mailings and through social media.

It matters that Melrose is a place for people of all backgrounds and ages. Our seniors deserve the opportunity to age in place, in the city they love and in the neighborhoods they built.

In order for the city to move forward without leaving anyone behind, Melrose needs a Mayor with the experience to hit the ground running and the vision to achieve a brighter future. As a former President of the Board of Aldermen and current State Representative, I have that vision and experience.

Complementing my work as an elected official, I’m the only candidate who has served as a prosecutor, protected people from financial exploitation and recovered hundreds of thousands of dollars for victims of financial fraud. I’m the only candidate who has worked to enhance elder protective service programs and expand access to home care services and supports. I’m the only candidate who has led complicated negotiations which resulted in vital protections for workers and families. I have built relationships with state and local officials, advocates and business leaders – relationships that will help us build consensus and get things done.

I’ve listened to folks across this city and have provided opportunities for them to share their views with me. Hundreds of residents have responded and I’ve used their input to shape my platform. As Mayor, I will continue these important conversations.

On September 17th, I ask for your vote so that we can make Melrose an even better place together.

You can learn more about my ideas for Melrose at paulbrodeur.com.