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Ward 1 councilor urges town halls, housing protections and climate resilience
Summary
Ellen, identified in the meeting as the Ward 1 councilor and a family‑engagement coordinator, proposed quarterly town halls, a community advisory board with diverse representation, mixed‑income housing strategies and waterfront resiliency measures including flood barriers.
Ellen, introduced by the chair as the Ward 1 councilor, presented a multi‑part set of priorities centered on community engagement, housing stability, and climate resilience.
"So my goal is to strengthen the connection between all of our wards, even though I am Ward 1, representing residents in local government by promoting open communication and inclusive decision making," Ellen said, proposing quarterly town halls and a Community Advisory Board that would include renters, homeowners, business owners, seniors, young people and teachers. She also described pilot ideas to renovate historic properties into mixed‑income housing and to consider inclusion protections to reduce displacement.
On climate and resilience, Ellen suggested targeted policies for low‑lying waterfront areas, including flood barriers and community‑led environmental education. She also pressed for transportation improvements — safer crosswalks, bike lanes on Admiral Kalfas Road and more EV charging stations — and suggested childcare at evening meetings to increase participation from parents. Staff acknowledged the ideas and said they would be noted for follow‑up.
