What I said at the Councillor-At-Large Debate

I think we can all agree that the City of Fitchburg is today facing some of the greatest challenges in its history. In times like these, our best asset lies in our ability to work together to face these challenges. What is happening instead is that we are acting on a local level just like the Republicans and Democrats on the national level – voting for and against critically important matters strictly on the basis of who proposes them – not on their merits.

If we as a city are going to move forward on such critical matters as the supplemental budget for more police officers and more hours for the library, turning on our streetlights, using grant funds for downtown improvements, or allowing voters to decide whether to approve a debt exclusion to fix our streets, we need to stop shooting ourselves in the foot and start working together for YOU the voters. The nature of the Councillor at Large position is different from Ward Councillor. Councillors at Large represent the city as a whole. It’s essential that you elect candidates who can put the city ahead of politics.

I pledge to you tonight that if I am granted the honor and privilege of representing you as Councilor at large that I will never vote on an issue for any reason other than whether it will serve the best interests of this great city.

You’ve heard from several at-large candidates tonight that represent real change for Fitchburg. This city needs new faces – new blood and new ideas to represent you, the voter. This is my first time running for office, but I worked for this city for over 27 years. I know how to get things done and how to work with people on both sides of the aisle. I’m David Streb, and I’d appreciate one of your votes. Let’s work together to improve our great city. Thank you.