Economic Vitality
Building a vibrant local economy where small businesses thrive, commercial spaces come alive, and economic growth benefits all.
Growing a Stronger Local Economy
Support for existing businesses, smarter development, and thriving commercial corridors
Ward 5 should be a launchpad for local businesses, working people, and creative ventures — but that does not happen by accident. If we want to keep our commercial districts vibrant and make Somerville a place where businesses grow and stay, we need policies that match the moment.
I have started businesses myself. I know how hard it can be to navigate red tape, high rents, and slow-moving city processes. As your Councilor, I will fight to revitalize our vacant storefronts, rebalance the tax burden, and make our commercial corridors work better for the people who power them.
A Real Plan for Economic Vitality in Ward 5
1. Revitalize Vacant Storefronts
Empty storefronts mean missed opportunity. I will roll out a Commercial Vacancy Action Plan to bring them back to life. That means launching a public dashboard of vacant properties, offering short-term pop-up leases for local vendors, and funding basic upgrades like signage and accessibility through matching grants.
2. Fix the Tax Balance
Right now, homeowners carry more than 70 percent of Somerville’s tax burden. That is upside down. I will fight for smarter zoning near transit to attract more commercial development, targeted incentives for businesses that provide essential services or good jobs, and reforms that protect small businesses in our tax structure.
3. Create a One-Stop Resource Center
Business owners should not have to hunt across ten websites for basic information. I will push to create a centralized resource center where small businesses can get help with permits, licenses, financing, and city services — from real people, not just automated forms.
4. Make Our Commercial Corridors Great
Economic development should reflect the unique identity of each neighborhood. I will invest in branding, signage, and public art to celebrate places like Magoun, Ball, and Porter. I will also promote seasonal open-streets events, expand “Shop Local” campaigns, and keep foot traffic flowing where it matters most.
5. Connect Businesses to Modern Tools and Capital
From digital marketing to e-commerce to AI, I will make sure Ward 5 businesses have access to the tools that keep them competitive. That includes free training, resource guides, and partnerships with banks, credit unions, and community lenders to unlock capital for local growth.
Ward 5 can be the heartbeat of a more vibrant, equitable Somerville economy — one that keeps our local businesses thriving and our neighborhoods full of life.
