CHICOPEE — With the Nov. 4 general election less than a month away, Reminder Publishing sent questionnaires to City Council and School Committee candidates on the ballot.
This year’s at-large City Council race features seven candidates vying for four spots.
Incumbents Frank Laflamme and Jerry Roy will look to secure a seat on the City Council against challengers Jessica Avery, Clark Wojtowicz, Brian Mendes, John Paquette Jr. and Joel McAuliffe.
Reminder Publishing asked each candidate the same three questions so readers can get a taste of who they are and what they hope to accomplish if elected. The candidates are listed in alphabetical order.
This week features the incumbents’ responses.
More coverage on the upcoming Chicopee and Holyoke elections will appear in future editions.
Reminder Publishing: What are some of your top priorities/issues you’d like to address in the first few months?
Laflamme: A priority of mine is Public Safety, and I will continue to advocate for improving pedestrian safety and excessive speed concerns throughout the city, and to expand the clean city initiative program.
I want to continue to support our police and fire, redevelopment of the Uniroyal property and other economic developments throughout the city to help offset the tax rate, further revitalize our downtown with targeted investments, support our schools as we move to build a new Barry Elementary, and do all this while continuing to look out for the best interests of our taxpayers.
Roy: My main concern is slowing traffic down on busier streets in the city and advocating for police presence in problem areas.
RP: What are one or two things you think voters should know about you?
Laflamme: I have been a resident for 67 years, homeowner, taxpayer for over 45 years and former business owner all in Chicopee. I hold four Massachusetts state licenses. I take pride in volunteering in community service for various organizations and churches.
As a City Councilor At-Large for 16 years, President for the last four, I have a blend of real-world government experience that has delivered results for my constituents. I scrutinize every Mayor’s order and subcommittee agenda item looking at the facts and impact of the order, so that my vote will be in the best interest of the residents.
Roy: I retired from the Chicopee Fire Department after 27 years. Membership in the Moose, Tigers, Elks, Knights of Columbus and Eagles has been rewarding in planning a variety of functions to help these clubs. I was also a past president of Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen.
RP: What is your overall message to voters ahead of the election?
Laflamme: As a City Councilor At-Large, and President, I work hard every day to assist my fellow councilors with neighborhood concerns and to make sure your voices are heard. I am an accessible representative for my constituents in answering all phone calls, emails, and meeting with residents.
I have a unique perspective on how to work and be effective for the residents and I would like to continue to be your voice in city government.
Roy: I promise to bring to each task my guarantee to serve all with dignity and an assurance to work hard for you, the citizen. Community minded and Chicopee proud.
