Election Profile: Nathan Fennessy

CONCORD, NH — Nathan Fennessy is running for one of two at-large Concord City Council seats. He filled out this candidate profile for voters to read:

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?: No

Education: Dover High School, Georgetown University (BA History & Government), Catholic University - Columbus School of Law (JD)

Occupation: Attorney (12 years)

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office: Concord School Board At-Large member (2015-2018)

Campaign Website: None

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it: Ensure that the Interstate 93 expansion complements the tremendous improvements made to downtown, enhances the City’s connections to the river, and facilitates the future development of Storrs and Commercial. We need to develop community participation and awareness of the State’s plans so that the State understands how its future plans will impact the geography of our City for the next 50-100 years.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?: I think I bring a different perspective to the council as a young parent and former School Board member. I want to make sure that Concord continues to be a desirable place to live, work, and raise a family.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform: We need to work together to identify new opportunities to expand the property tax base (e.g. Exit 17 development, mall redevelopment). We need to continue developing the supply of safe and affordable housing in the City. We need to consider investing additional resources in our police and fire departments to enhance community safety.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?: The greatest achievement I had on the School Board was the passage and implementation of full-day kindergarten. It took a number of years to accomplish, but through the persistent work of many community members, we were able to show how important this programming was to the future success of our children.

The best advice ever shared with me was ... If you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem. (My Dad)

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?: As a civil litigation attorney, my job is to help my clients solve problems. This requires an ability to listen, a desire to learn new things, creativity, and a willingness to negotiate and compromise. I think these skills would be very useful for a city councilor.

If you're a candidate running for Concord City Council or Board of Education and have not filled out your candidate profile, click here.