Marlborough mayoral candidates: What's your vision for the future of downtown?
MARLBOROUGH — With the Marlborough Mayoral Preliminary Election set for next Tuesday, Oct. 10, the Daily News has asked the four mayoral candidates on the ballot — J. Christian Dumais, Michael Baker, Patrick Hogan and Samantha Perlman — to answer a series of questions.
The four candidates are seeking to succeed Mayor Arthur Vigeant, who announced earlier this year that he would not seek a seventh two-year term.
The top two vote-getters on Tuesday will advance to the Marlborough City Election on Nov. 7.
This is the second in a series of five stories where candidates respond to questions asked by the Daily News.
There is some concern in the community that the downtown area is not modernized and has fallen behind nearby communities. As mayor, what would you do to help change that?
Michael Baker
"I would like to bring in modern businesses to help what we already have. These are micro-creameries, tattoo parlors, speak easy, aesthetician and bagel shops to name a few. Really get the people excited to come to Main Street."
Sam Perlman
"A robust and active downtown is the beating heart of our city. As councilor, I led advocacy for public art downtown to make the area an attractive destination for residents and tourists alike, driving foot traffic and developing a distinct district identity. We will build upon the existing pop-up shops and support the growth of community-focused hubs, like the farmers market.
"As mayor, I will partner with the Chamber and MEDC (Marlborough Economic Development Corp.) to attract new businesses into vacant storefronts and build relationships with downtown landlords for a shared vision. I will bolster the MEDC toolbox program to provide increased funding to start, expand and improve small businesses. Whether fully living out downtown’s designation as a state cultural district through increased funding and prioritizing historic preservation or building off the Museum in the Streets and new library renovation, downtown will become a center for past, present and future vibrancy.
"Developing a downtown revitalization plan that builds in direct community engagement will be vital to understanding what people wish to see in the district, so our actions reflect resident input. I will prioritize refurbishing and revitalizing the Walker Building to live out its former glory as a community hub. Together, we will spearhead pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, offering more local festivals, a one-way Main Street, increased outdoor dining and musical entertainment so downtown reflects Marlborough’s future."
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Patrick Hogan
"I am focused on revitalizing Main Street and the downtown district. I have been reaching out to local business leaders, property owners and the Marlborough Economic Development Corp. A cohesive vision is a priority for success. I recently met with directors of the Hudson Business Association, where we explored their successful revitalization of Hudson Main Street. Key to Hudson’s remarkable transformation was their innovative approach that brings together business and property owners, alongside the Historical Commission, to collaboratively enhance their downtown area. I believe we can mimic what Hudson has done by forging a partnership between City Hall, our Historical Commission, MEDC and Marlborough Regional Chamber of Commerce.
"I am committed to hit the ground running on day one, initiating the process of re-instituting a strong and inclusive Marlborough Downtown Village Association — a community of business owners, residents, employees and property owners working together for the common good of Marlborough’s Main Street District. Together, with the guidance of the MEDC and MRCC, we will continue to transform our downtown into a thriving hub of boutiques, shops, restaurants and bars — a district that fills us all with pride and excitement. The vision for a revitalized downtown Marlborough is not just a dream; it's a carefully crafted plan backed by successful models and the unwavering spirit of progress. Join me in making this vision a reality and creating a downtown that stands as a beacon of pride for our entire community."
'Mixed message': Marlborough city councilor questions downtown development efforts
J. Christian Dumais
"While I believe we have a healthy and beautiful Main Street, there is no doubt it can be better. I am the only candidate in this race who is a small business owner — and a downtown small business owner to boot. You aren’t going to get another candidate who knows better what small businesses — which is what makes up Main Street — need to begin and remain successful. My Main Street plan was released many months ago and consists of five critical elements:
1. Create a “Main Street Working Group”
2. Work with property owners / attract anchor stores
3. Consider making Main Street a one-way / more pedestrian-friendly
4. Redevelop the Walker Building
5. Review and update zoning ordinances
"The most immediate element above is the “Main Street Working Group.” We cannot attract the proper anchor stores for Main Street without the cooperation of property owners. Getting everyone together at the same table is the first step to identifying what the shared goals are for property owners, tenants/small businesses and the city. Relationships are the best tool the mayor has at his disposal — and I have built many deep relationships in the business community as a longtime member of the Marlborough Regional Chamber of Commerce.
"The Marlborough Economic Development Corp., who I also have a strong relationship with, has existing programs (such as their “Toolbox”) that can be used to target and grow Main Street."
This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Marlborough mayoral candidates state their plans for Main Street
