Copyright berkshireeagle
To the editor: Alisa Costa has shown herself to be a city councilor of distinction. When she says “When I'm in the room, you're in the room,” it is not an empty slogan. She means it. For the last two years, she has held almost 20 constituent meetings for all city residents. She arranges for them to take place in a local organization or business and gives the host time to talk about their organization or business. At each meeting, a city department head is present to describe the work of their department and answer questions. Alisa listens — really listens. These meetings are incredible opportunities for learning both about city organizations and businesses and about city government; they offer the opportunity to ask questions and to engage in conversation with other residents. After I attended the first one, I made it a point to get to as many as possible. The sad thing is how few residents take up this opportunity. Despite often low attendance and her own busy schedule, Alisa has persisted in creating these opportunities and being there to listen. Alisa listens. Alisa follows through. If you ask her a question she cannot answer, several days later you will hear back from her. I once provided her with some information I had gathered. Several weeks later she emailed with a report on what she had done with the information and who she had talked with about it. Alisa follows through. Alisa is informed. She has many years of experience with public policy of all sorts, and she is especially knowledgeable about housing policy — an expertise the city needs at this particular moment in time. She also is a practiced researcher who knows how to identify and locate information pertinent to the whatever issue is on the table. She believes in evidenced-based decision making. Alisa represents everyone. She analyzes policy proposals from many perspectives to ensure that whatever position she takes will align with what is best across the board for Pittsfield residents, not just for a few. That is why when she says, “When I'm in the room, you're in the room,” you can believe her. The city of Pittsfield needs Alisa Costa in the room. You need Alisa Costa in the room. Vote for Alisa Costa for city councilor at large on Nov. 4. Rebecca Thompson, Pittsfield
