Platform

Seniors and Veterans

​Why This Matters to Me
Growing up in Springfield, I saw how hard it was for many seniors in our neighborhoods to get the care they needed. Many of them built this city, yet too often they struggle to stay in their homes or get basic services. Veterans who sacrificed for our country also return home facing mental health challenges and housing instability. We owe them more than words, we owe them action.
The Problem
Too many seniors are losing access to in-home care and essential services. Veterans returning from service often struggle to access mental health care, housing, and employment opportunities.
My Plan
As your State Representative, I will:
• Fight for funding for Personal Care Attendants so seniors can age safely in their homes
• Expand mental health and transitional services for veterans
• Increase funding for senior recreation and health programs
• Protect transportation access so seniors can reach medical appointments and community activities
Our seniors and veterans deserve dignity and respect.

Housing and Affordability

Why This Matters to Me
I know what housing insecurity looks like. There were times growing up when I didn’t know where I would sleep. I’ve slept in apartment hallways and even cars just to stay warm. No family should have to go through that.
The Problem
Springfield families are being squeezed by rising rents, high property taxes, and expensive utilities. Many young families cannot afford to buy their first home.
My Plan
I will fight to:
• Expand first-time homebuyer programs for Springfield residents
• Increase affordable housing development that prioritizes local families
• Hold absentee landlords accountable for neglected properties
• Push for utility accountability and energy rebates during extreme winters
Springfield must remain a city where working families can afford to live.

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Small Businesses and Jobs

Why This Matters to Me
Before becoming a teacher, I worked in workforce development and helped connect hundreds of workers to jobs across the region. I’ve seen firsthand how small businesses and skilled trades create opportunity for families.
The Problem
Too much economic development is focused on downtown while neighborhood business districts struggle to survive.
My Plan
I will:
• Create neighborhood business hubs in areas like Mason Square and Forest Park
• Reduce fees and red tape for small business startups
• Expand workforce training programs connecting residents to trades
• Work with local businesses to create more jobs for Springfield residents
Our neighborhoods should benefit from economic growth too.

Violence Prevention and Quality of Life

Why This Matters to Me
As a young person growing up in Springfield, I saw how easy it was for young people to get pulled into violence and crime. Mentors and coaches helped change the direction of my life. That’s why I’ve spent years mentoring youth in our community.
The Problem
Too many young people lack opportunities, safe spaces, and mentorship. At the same time, many neighborhoods struggle with broken infrastructure and neglected public spaces.
My Plan
I will:
• Expand youth jobs and after-school programs
• Invest in mentorship and violence prevention initiatives
• Improve parks, sidewalks, and neighborhood infrastructure
• Ensure our communities are clean, safe, and well-maintained
Opportunity is one of the best violence prevention strategies.

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Education and Young People

Why This Matters to Me
School was not easy for me growing up. I had challenges at home that made focusing in school difficult. Today, as a teacher and father of two daughters, I understand how important it is that every child has the support they need to succeed.
The Problem
Many school buildings need repairs and modernization. Students facing trauma often lack the support services they need.
My Plan
I will:
• Fight for improvements to school buildings including air conditioning and repairs
• Increase funding for wrap-around services addressing trauma and mental health
• Expand vocational and technical education opportunities
• Strengthen connections between schools and local employers
Every child deserves a pathway to success.

Environmental Justice and Public Health

Why This Matters to Me
Springfield residents deserve clean air and safe neighborhoods. Too many families in our community suffer from asthma and other health problems related to pollution.
The Problem
Springfield has some of the worst air quality in Massachusetts due to pollution, heavy truck traffic, and industrial emissions.
My Plan
I will:
• Hold polluters accountable
• Reduce diesel truck traffic in residential neighborhoods
• Increase tree planting and green space
• Work to reduce noise and environmental pollution
Environmental justice is a public health issue.

A Commitment to Mason Square

Why This Matters to Me
Mason Square has always been a center of culture, history, and community pride in Springfield. But for too long, the neighborhood has been overlooked when it comes to investment and attention.
My Plan
As your State Representative, I will:
• Reopen a district office in Mason Square, just as former State Representative Benjamin Swan once did, so residents have direct access to their representative.
• Fight to protect access on Wilbraham Avenue that our community depends on.
• Work with private partners to develop a Mason Square Sports Complex, creating youth opportunities, jobs, and economic activity connected to the legacy of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
Mason Square deserves real investment and leadership that is present.