2021 Preliminary Election: Candidate for Mayor
Campaign Website: https://sangiolo.org
Biographical statement: Amy Mah Sangiolo is an attorney, and former City Councilor (served for 20 years) and is a consumer specialist at the Attorney General’s office. Amy is a life-long Democrat, serves as Vice-Chair of the Newton Democratic City Committee and is founder of the Asian American Democrats of Massachusetts.
Questions and Answers
Question 1: How would you balance the commercial need for stronger village centers with the concerns voiced by some residents for increased density, and how would you accomplish that?
There are many ways to support our village centers. As mayor, I would establish strong relationships by increasing outreach and communication. The city should improve our marketing to make our village centers destinations for our residents and visitors from surrounding towns. We should ensure that restaurants have what they need for outdoor dining for as many months of the year as possible, including road closures, outdoor seating, and shelters. We should offer incentives for local retailers to relocate to Newton, filling our empty storefronts. I support development that enhances but does not overwhelm our villages and their established char
Question 2: What is your vision for the Newton Police Department and how would/does your budget support your vision?
The NPD will consist of diverse, caring officers and staff who are well-trained in crisis intervention, de-escalation/use of force, and bias-free community policing. A department that’s recognized for their work and accountable for their actions. Equipped with resources and current technology and will collaborate with other departments and agencies to identify and assist vulnerable residents at-risk. One that regularly communicates and informs the public about crimes targeting neighborhoods and protected classes and explains how these crimes are being addressed. Our officers start from a strong position with these goals but there is much work
Question 3: What policies would you put in place to reduce residential and city solid waste and carbon emissions?
Incentivize people to throw away less trash. Adopt curbside composting and add more drop-off sites. Implement a consistent recycling education plan, assist residents to recycle/sell unwanted items. Partner with private housing complexes, businesses, and institutions to increase recycling.
Incentivize electric/hybrid vehicle purchasing and install affordable charging stations; require all new large-scale developments to be LEED Certified and electrified; create financial incentives for solar or heating upgrades for residents and businesses. Revisit and review our solid waste and recycling systems, and our energy use and generation sources.