Judith Kurtz, Concord City Council At Large Candidate

Judith Kurtz

Age (as of Election Day)

45

Position sought (including district number if applicable)

City Council At-Large

Party Affiliation

I'm a registered Dem, but I am grateful that city politics are nonpartisan as we need consensus-building conversations to make progress.

Family

Anton Kurtz, Husband, Orthopaedic Surgeon, two children ages 14 and 12

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

B.A. Bryn Mawr College, M.Ed. St. Michael's College

Occupation

Educator 17 years

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

N/A

Campaign website

votejudith.com

Why are you seeking elective office?

I see a need for increased collaboration across city committees and community partners to face our current challenges head on. It is important to have a range of voices at the table, and I bring a fresh voice to our city’s leadership. I am focused on collaboration and engagement. I am ready to represent you.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Housing and homelessness. I will support the new zoning that will make it easier for Concord to add desperately needed housing stock while simultaneously diversifying the tax base.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I am a consensus-builder interested in bringing all the stakeholders together for solution-focused conversations. I have deeply held values, one of which is to help individuals find common ground to work towards shared goals. Those who know me or even have just met me know that I am open, honest and hardworking. I want to serve the community.

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

N/A

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Economic development, transparency, civic engagement, addressing homelessness, promoting equity and moving towards our green energy goals.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have been facilitating conversations since 2004, and am skilled at bringing people together. I know how to draw on research and experts to inform decision-making. My recent work with Concord Greenspace demonstrates my commitment to data-driven conversations focused on solutions and to the power of community organizing. I get things done.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Listen more than you talk.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I'm here to listen and serve. Please reach out to me. I'd love to meet you!