Somerville Alderman Candidate: Michael Nionakis

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?

The two most important issues facing Somerville right now:

(A) The lack of funding for the Green Line extension, I believe that responsibility falls squarely on the shoulders of Somerville's legislative delegation. The two state senators and the three representatives should be called before the Board of Alderman and explain the lack of funding and how they plan to resolve the funding shortfall. 

(B) The lack of affordable housing. Once the Green Line extension arrives in Somerville, I feel the property values and rent throughout the city will dramatically increase. We have to try to enact ordinances that would protect Somerville residents. One avenue I would consider would be to raise the current 12.5 percent affordable housing cap on new development to at least 15 percent.

Tell us about your background

I was born, raised and educated in Somerville (SHS class of 1982). I am currently employed by the Middlesex Sheriff's Office as an Assistant Deputy Superintendent at the Cambridge Jail. I have been working there since 1996. I am married to my wife Susan (McDonald), I have a daughter, Michela, who is 20 and attending Bay State College and a son, Michael, who is 4 and attending The Capuano School. I live on Mansfield Street right outside of Union Square, but I was raised on Lowell Street (Magoun Square). My parents still own the home.

Why should Somerville residents vote for you?

I love this city. I will fight for what I believe is right. I would like to see my children raise their families here as my grandparents and parents did, and my wife's grandparent and parents did. We are in a sense the keepers of the trust. We have to pass Somerville on to generations to come in better shape than when we inherited it. We have to responsibly develop our precious commodity, LAND, and keep our open green spaces, while trying to expand our business tax base.