Andrea Kelley

Questions and Answers

Question 1: Discuss an experience where you made a decision that you now regret.

I regret not speaking up sooner and more often about the need for affordable housing in Newton, at a variety of sites, densities and types.

Question 2: Do you support the proposal to eliminate greenhouse gas emissions in Newton by 2050? Why or why not?

Yes 100%. Climate change is arguably the most important issue facing us globally and locally. We should do everything we can to help repair and prevent the environmental damage for future generations. I agree with the findings and recommendations in the Citizens Climate Action Plan and hope Newton adopts them as our guide.

Question 3: What is your opinion of the current development proposals such as the Northland and Riverside projects?

We have been advised by the city's legal department not to form nor state opinions while the process is still underway. Both the Riverside and Northland sites are ripe for improvement. With resident and City Council input, we can help shape that.

Question 4: There are a number of expenses that the City needs to grapple with: union contracts still being negotiated, tight school budgets, NewCAL (a new Senior Center), the acquisition of Webster Woods, possible rehabilitation of the Armory, etc. What are your priorities and why?

The union contracts are the #1 priority to resolve. Those should be signed as soon as possible. The purchase of Webster Woods will likely take a longer time period, and is an important open space acquisition. I'm glad the NewCAL or Senior Center project is taking a back step to re-evaluate both the program and the siting. A Joint Advisory Planning Group for the castle Armory in West Newton will begin soon and take 6 months to make a recommendation about the best use for that building and site.