Copyright MassLive
Controversy has been swirling around the Ward 1 race since School Committee member Joesiah Gonzalez announced he would challenge his former co-worker Maria Perez for the City Council seat she had held for two terms. In July, the New North Citizens’ Council board announced in a press release that Perez, a 40-year housing program manager, had been fired for violating its political engagement policies. Perez has denied any inappropriate actions and is suing. Shortly after, Gonzalez was exposed by a fellow board member for orchestrating the creation of a press release that inferred the firing was over embezzlement accusations. The agency later rescinded the press release. Ahead of Tuesday, Nov. 4, The Republican reached out to all candidates for the opposed City Council and School Committee seats to answer a short questionnaire. The Republican is publishing the candidates’ answers to the questions in print. Find more candidates and responses at masslive.com/topic/election. Name: Maria Perez Age: 73 Address: Prospect Street Profession: Former Chief of Housing Position running for: City Council Ward 1 I am a graduate of American International College and Springfield College, where I majored in human service with a concentration in social and community organizing. I have spent over 45 years supporting the Latino community. In the two terms that I have served as a city councilor I have secured over $100 million for the development projects in Ward 1. Many initiatives are still underway and a third term would allow me to see them through. What is the biggest problem in the city and how would you address it? Violent crime has significant impact on families. My priorities include collaborating with faith leaders and nonprofit organizations on youth prevention initiatives and seeking grants to support violent interrupter programs. By working alongside residents and stakeholders, we will strive to enhance neighborhood safety and foster a more secure future for Ward 1 and the city. The housing crisis continues to take a toll on residents and those who want to move to the city. How should Springfield attack the problem? Our housing crunch demands action. I’ll convert vacant buildings into mixed-income homes using HOME funds, streamline approvals, and work with nonprofits and tenants to keep rents affordable. As former chief of housing for a Springfield nonprofit, I’ve delivered more than 200 units and expanded homeless programs. With community input, we’ll create welcoming homes and stable neighborhoods without burdening taxpayers. What types of development would you like to attract to the city and how would you do it? I will work to attract new business including dining, shopping and mixed-income housing downtown through public-private partnerships. Collaborating with business partners and local and state officials, we’ll center vibrancy on the new courthouse. At the former Eastfield Mall-Springfield Crossing, our joint efforts have already worked to bring Target, Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, and other retail, creating 800 jobs. Engaging residents ensures community input and buy in that will lead to growth without tax hikes.
