Robert Greeney: District 3
What would you say are the biggest challenges Amherst faces?
Making our governance practices fully inclusive and participatory.
What relevant experiences and qualities would you bring to the Town Council that would help it work through these challenges constructively and effectively?
Extensive experience working in a wide variety of groups where there is conflict and disagreement.
Have you ever served on an elected board or committee in Amherst and if so, what were 3 of your most challenging votes?
Town Meeting - the elementary schools vote three years ago.
What steps would you take to engage low-income residents, renters, residents of color, and other underrepresented voices?
These voices as well as many others are voiced, but not included in a meaningful manner.
“One Town, One Plan” has been in development and in public discussion for over a decade. The plan is designed to meet the town’s most pressing infrastructure needs in a financially responsible way, and prioritizes the following four projects equally: the Jones Public Library Renovation & Expansion, the Elementary School Building Project, the Department of Public Works Building, and the South Amherst Fire Station. Do you support this plan? Why or why not?
I fully support the concept and the intention, but the plan must be formed with the full inclusion of divergent voices.
As a member of the Town Council, how would you engage and communicate with your constituents, including those who have not previously been active in town politics?
The most important issue is to create forums that have impact on decision making. People stop going or do not participate because the think it will have no impact.