The Peabody Candidates Forum held on September 16, 2025, showcased the city's councilor-at-large candidates, drawing significant public interest. The event, moderated to ensure timely responses, featured candidates including Jared Hochman, Jacqueline Corriveau, John Turco, Tristan Brown, Joe Amico, Tom Rasignal, and George Gullis.
During the forum, candidates were asked about their priorities for the first six months if elected. George Gullis emphasized the need for improvements in city infrastructure, specifically roads and sidewalks, citing traffic congestion as a major concern. He noted that his commute often takes over half an hour, highlighting the urgency for better traffic management.
Jared Hochman echoed the sentiment regarding infrastructure but also introduced specific proposals aimed at providing financial relief to vulnerable groups. He advocated for real estate tax relief for disabled American veterans, suggesting that their tax abatement should correspond to their disability percentage. Hochman also expressed a desire to support senior citizens by capping their property taxes to prevent them from being forced out of their homes due to rising costs.
The forum allowed candidates to articulate their visions for Peabody, focusing on pressing issues such as infrastructure and financial support for residents. As the election approaches, these discussions will likely shape voter perceptions and priorities in the community.