Copyright MassLive
HOLYOKE — Nine advanced, but only six will remain after Tuesday’s election, and Tessa Murphy-Romboletti wants to continue her service to the community as city councilor at large. The current council president, Murphy-Romboletti is a lifelong resident and community booster for Holyoke, especially for small businesses. Ahead of Tuesday, The Republican reached out to all candidates for the opposed City Council seats to answer a short questionnaire. Find more candidates and responses in the past week’s print editions or online at masslive.com/topic/election. Tessa Murphy-Romboletti Age: 36 Address: 38 St. Kolbe Drive Profession: Nonprofit director Position sought: City Council, at large, incumbent Introductory statement: I’m a lifelong Holyoker who has spent my career supporting local small businesses and giving back to our community. I recently purchased a condo in Ward 1 and show up for Holyoke all year long (not just during election season) because residents deserve leaders who are present, engaged, and focused on solutions. As City Council president, I’m working to bring civility back to our council chambers while making government more transparent, efficient and accountable. I believe in listening to all sides, collaborating with residents, and ensuring every voice is heard in local decision-making. I’m committed to keeping Holyoke moving forward, supporting our neighborhoods and small businesses, and building a city government that works for the people who call this community home. Question 1: What is the biggest problem in the city and how would you address it? In my opinion, Holyoke’s biggest challenge is ensuring City Hall operates efficiently and serves residents effectively. We’ve made progress on transparency and modernization, but there’s more to do. As Council President, I’ve prioritized accountability and follow-through. I’ll continue pushing to modernize systems, strengthen financial oversight, and ensure residents receive the professional, respectful service they deserve from a city government that works for them. Question 2: The City Council always struggles to keep taxes low, while providing needed services and making advancements. How specifically will you balance the three? We can’t keep saving a penny only to lose a dollar later. That’s not fiscal responsibility; it’s wasteful. Holyoke struggles to retain qualified employees, which directly affects your services. We need to invest wisely, modernize operations, pursue grants, and support smart development that grows our tax base. As council president, I’ll keep promoting financial oversight and collaboration to ensure every dollar strengthens how our city serves residents. Question 3: The housing crisis continues to take a toll on residents and those who want to move to the city. How should the city attack the problem? Holyoke needs a balanced housing strategy that supports affordability and new investment. We should partner with nonprofits and developers to reuse vacant properties, streamline permitting, and expand housing options across income levels. Strengthening code enforcement and helping first-time homebuyers will stabilize neighborhoods and ensure residents have access to safe, affordable homes. Question 4: What types of development would you like to attract to the city and how would you do it? For nine years, I’ve worked closely with small businesses and seen how their growth fuels Holyoke’s progress. I want to attract small business, creative, and green industry development that reflects our community’s values. By improving communication, cutting red tape, and marketing Holyoke as ready to do business, we can create local jobs and opportunities while keeping our city affordable and vibrant.
