The Haverhill Preliminary Mayoral Election is Tuesday September 12, 2023
Wood vs Barrett
Wood accused Barrett of being behind the leaking of a document that accused Wood of racist behavior and harassment. The charges go back 20 years and were declared unfounded by the Chief of Police at the time.
Infrastructure, Environment, and Building Codes
There is concern over the costs of the Clean Water Project, which will clean up stormwater and wastewater dumped into the Merrimack River. Several candidates expressed a desire to clean up the river and make it an attraction for visitors.
It is interesting to note that Haverhill does not have a Climate Action Plan to meet Net Zero targets. Candidate Melinda Barrett, however, hinted that something might be in the works if she were elected. In answer to a question about the importance of investing in natural resources and outdoor spaces, she stated, “We can look at our building codes. The state has improved their stretch codes and their building codes over the years”.
What is a “stretch code”? A stretch code is a building code that allows communities to ensure that new construction and major renovations will be built to net zero standards and helps ensure that buildings are not locked into high emissions for years into the future. The Massachusetts Department of Energy created and manages these building codes. These codes determine how much energy is consumed in newly constructed or majorly renovated buildings.
The people of Haverhill need to be aware of committees that might be formed to create a Climate Action Plan for Haverhill. Usually, such a committee would hold meetings or issue surveys to get input from the public. High participation from the public will ensure all perspectives on climate change will be heard.
Read our coverage of Net Zero Climate Action Plans here
Goals Prominent, not Systems
An example of a goal is: “We need to increase the diversity of the school faculty and administration” or “I will make diversity a priority for the school system.” A system would be specific actions on how to achieve that goal.
Guy Cooper and Scott Wood offered a few specifics on how they would work to increase diversity in the school system. George Eleftheriou had specifics on how he would approach economic development and affordable housing. Melinda Barret offered some specifics on affordable housing and inclusionary zoning.
Generally, though, most candidates stated goals while specifics on achieving them were lacking.
By Citizens for Truth Contributor
Sources:
https://www.mass.gov/info-details/what-is-a-zero-net-energy-building
Massachusetts First 
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