October 1, 2024
During my short tenure as Acting Mayor of Methuen, I've been reminded how quickly life can change. In just the past 10 days, we've experienced the heartbreaking loss of Mayor Neil Perry, and we're now facing a mayoral transition that is unprecedented in Methuen's history. These events have led to the required scheduling of a special election to elect a successor who will complete Mayor Perry's term. While the City Council is still finalizing the special election date, we know that the election is approaching quickly and will occur before the year's end.
As we paid tribute to Mayor Perry over the past week, I was able to reflect on his remarkable legacy. What made him so special was his humanity. He poured his heart into serving Methuen and gave everything he had for the people of our city.
I think we can all agree that we need more public servants like him.
Despite this difficult time in our city's history, the work of moving Methuen forward must continue. I never contemplated making this announcement without my friend and mentor by my side, but due to the rapidly approaching special election, today I announce my candidacy for Mayor of Methuen to serve the remainder of Mayor Perry's unexpired term.
Mayor Perry often said: "Start it, finish it." With your support, I pledge to finish what he started.
I am dedicated to the ongoing stability of the city in which I was born, raised, and educated. Beginning in 2020, I have served as one of your Councilors-at-Large, and my goal has always been to work hard and in the best interests of Methuen - to leave our city better than I found it. If my campaign is successful, I cannot and will not try to be Mayor Perry, but I will emulate his example and promise that every decision I make will be in the best interests of the people of Methuen.
This election will focus on building upon Mayor Perry's legacy and ensuring that Methuen's government remains focused on professionalism, not politics. I pledge to strive to unite our city, to run a positive, hopeful campaign, and to be the leader Methuen deserves as we look to the future.
Over the coming months, I hope to earn the trust and confidence of every voter, and I ask for your support in the upcoming special mayoral election so that we can keep moving Methuen forward.