Candidate Profile: Dennis Sullivan

For Somerville Patch's 2013 election guide, we asked all candidates running for office in Somerville the same three questions, and we posted their answers without editing them. Here are the responses from Dennis Sullivan:

Question: What are the two most important issues facing Somerville right now, and what would you do on the Board of Aldermen to address those issues?

Public Transportation: When the Assembly Square orange line stop opens shortly, it will be the first new station in the state in 25 years! I’ll continue to work to make sure the orange line stays on track and to expand the green line through Route 16.

Economic Development: We must make sure that Assembly Square and the Innerbelt area are economic engines for the city. As Chair of License and Permits, my goals are maintaining the quality of life in the city while improving the economic climate. We must work with businesses to make sure they are good for that particular neighborhood. I was the chief sponsor of the outdoor seating ordinance that allows restaurants to compete with Cambridge and Boston. Somerville recently passed a food truck ordinance, and I’m working with food trucks and food restaurants to make sure they can co-exist together.

Question: Tell us about your background.

I was honored to be elected as an Alderman at Large by the people of Somerville in 2004. I immediately implemented by neighborhood mobile office hours to give residents a chance to voice their concerns. I’ve since held office hours outside, inside at the library and grocery stores, and have brought along translators for residents who speak a second language.

As a School Committee Member and former Chairman, I championed full-time nurses, low class sizes and the building of three new schools. Somerville continues to be the only school system in the state that offers free full day pre-kindergarten and free kindergarten. The Healey School, the Kennedy School and the Capuano Early Childhood Center were all built with 90% reimbursement from the state, saving taxpayers millions of dollars.

My full time job is a Sergeant with the Department of Correction. For six years, I was a Combat Medic in the Massachusetts National Guard located at the Highland Avenue Armory, and I’m proud to be a member of American Legion Post #19. I graduated from Saint Clement High School and Curry College.

Being an Alderman for me is all about serving the people of Somerville. During the holidays, I can often be found bringing cheer to children and seniors alike as Santa Clause at the city’s annual holiday tree lighting!

I live in the Ten Hills neighborhood with my wife, Melissa, and our dog, Nilla.

Question: Why should Somerville residents vote for you?

I believe that municipal government works better when we listen. That’s why I’ve held more than 125 neighborhood office hours. It's my way of connecting with you, in your neighborhood, on your time. That is how we make real progress - by working together.

In addition to fighting for public transportation and economic development, I’ve been an outspoken voice on the board for better recycling for residents and businesses and will continue to fight to expand the bike path all the way to Boston to increase pedestrian access. When East Somerville residents lost their school to a devastating fire, I helped to re-build the East Somerville Community School. Clean streets and safe neighborhoods are more important than ever, and one fire is one too many. I’ll strive to make sure our city services remain a priority.

I spend my nights at the planning board, zoning board of appeals, and license commission, fighting for our quality of life. I truly believe that I am the most accessible Alderman in the city of Somerville. I ask for one of your four votes for Alderman at Large on November 5th. Thank you!