Climate: I care deeply about our environment. I support moving Watertown to 100% renewable energy, help to create a solar incentive program, as well as requiring new buildings to be sustainable, and continuing to invest in green space and ensuring the new development does not infringe on open space and take away our trees. I am in support of the Watertown Climate Resolution. Watertown has been a leader in climate change initiatives and was one of the first communities to require Solar on certain sized developments, I plan on continuing this by being a strong supporter of environment programs.
I am also In support of a Tree Protection Ordinance. This would mean that for each significant tree that comes down a new tree must go up either at the same location, or somewhere else in Watertown. Every tree that is planted throughout town adds to the quality of life and benefits all of our residents.
Schools: As a graduate of the Watertown Public School system, and a sister of a Watertown Public School Teacher, I have a deep knowledge and appreciation for our schools. It is important to continue to invest in our students to ensure they have the knowledge, tools and resources they need to succeed.
Traffic- With the increase in development in Watertown, traffic has also increased. We need to expand access to public transportation for all residents and commuters in town. As someone who uses and relies on the MBTA, I know how frustrating it can be to have to take the local bus routes just to get anywhere in a timely manner. I will be a strong advocate for increased funding on the state and federal level to increase public transportation services throughout town. I am a strong supporter of the implementation of a shuttle bus on Pleasant Street. Beginning in Fall 2021, this shuttle will go all the way to Harvard Square. Any Watertown resident can use this shuttle for $1, and it is free for residents living in complexes which are part of the Watertown Transportation Management Agency.
Smart Growth- I am a supporter of only allowing growth which fits within the vision of the community and compliments the culture and character of the surrounding neighborhood. Ensuring what goes into Sterrit Lumber complies with the neighborhood is important to me. My Nana and Grandpa O’Reilly have a home on Rutland Street. Listening to the concerns of the residents, overdevelopment is not wanted or needed at this site. I also want to work with Newton to coordinate the lights on Bridge Street to mitigate traffic.
Infrastructure- I support the Council’s move to increase spending from $2.5 million to $4 million annually for street and road renovations including the long road program, specifically for Highland Avenue. As someone who frequently drives on Highland Ave, this street desperately needs paving. I also support the Wayfinding initiative which directs drivers to available public lots. I favor the expansion of blue bikes down Main Street towards District D. As well as pursuing acquisition of open land and open space for passive and active recreation. And, although the town is already in compliance with Chapter 40B it is critical Watertown continue to explore ways to increase affordable housing. Another important cause for me is getting the bottom road of Ridgelawn Cemetery renovated.
Affordable Housing– Watertown recently established the Municipal Affordable Housing Trust Fund. This is an excellent way for the community to partner with non profits, apply for federal and state aid, and raise money to acquire and maintain affordable housing throughout the town. With the increased development, it is essential we mitigate the damage with the skyrocketing price of homes by adding affordable units. The affordable units need to actually be affordable and not just another $2000 a month apartment. I support linkage fees and requiring new development to pay into this trust.
I met with Michael Lara who is the head of the Watertown Housing Authority. He gave me a tour of the E. Joyce Munger apartments at 100 Warren Street. I saw the need for maintenance at the site and how we need more housing for our seniors. We also discussed a need for an assisted living facility, as well as a need for more low and moderate income homes in town. We must work together to keep Watertown affordable for all who want to live here.
Financial Matters– I support the building for the future initiative, I am thrilled Watertown is building a new high school and two new elementary without raising taxes. I want to ensure we keep our pension liability fully funded and I will also continue to support the current schedule to fully fund our OPEB obligations.
Public Safety: With the growing development throughout town it is important we address the increased need in public safety. We need to increase staffing levels to ensure every fire truck is fully equipped. We are also currently in the midst of an opioid epidemic. It is important that we continue to invest in public safety to ensure that no lives are lost due to decreases in fire or patrol officers. I agree with the Town Council budget priority of not deferring critical capital maintenance or acquisition for our Public Safety Departments.
Supporting our Seniors– I will work to advocate to continue the wide variety of services for our seniors. Aging Watertown- Increase shuttle bus services and increasing transportation options for seniors. I would like to implement an Age Friendly Action Plan for Watertown so that the town is accessible and provides a high standard of living for people of all ages.
Inclusion: Watertown should hire a consultant to evaluate how best to pursue inclusion and diversity in Watertown’s workforce. I pledge to be as accessible and open to all ideas.
Initiatives on my agenda: As a dog owner, I would love to see more trash barrels around Watertown.
As a frequent user of the Charles River, I would like to continue working with the State to advocate for clean, and usable paths for runners, walkers and bikers.
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Emily Izzo for District D 