To the editor:
As a resident of Ward 2, I am closely watching the Ward 2 City Council race and Stephanie Niketic has my vote. As a former city councilor, I appreciate what it takes to do the job, so Stephanie Niketic has my endorsement.
Ward 2, like all wards in Newburyport, has challenges unique to itself, as well as matters of importance which are citywide. Whether it's the quality of our water, emergency response systems, infrastructure, schools, city services or other key issues, I want to trust the judgment of my elected representative as much as possible. Stephanie Niketic has been working hard every day to educate herself on the myriad municipal issues for which city councilors must take a position. She's actively engaged, speaking with residents to hear directly from them what they're focused on as well. The next Ward 2 councilor will be responsible for making critical budget votes with our limited financial resources. She will have the opportunity to propose and vote for ordinances which impact quality of life for all of us. She will be responsible for responding to all Ward 2 resident inquiries and concerns by performing due diligence and considering residents perspectives.
When I served on the Newburyport City Council, I keenly remember that it could get heated at times. But members treated one another with civility and interacted with residents respectfully. A vote for Stephanie Niketic will strengthen that type of decorum. I trust Stephanie to do the job with integrity and professionalism. She is fact-driven and results-driven. She'll work hard to be as informed as possible and won't hesitate to ask the tough questions.
I ask my fellow Ward 2 residents to learn more about what distinguishes Stephanie Niketic. We residents who aren't in a position to run for a seat on the City Council, are trusting our elected representatives to serve in our stead and to vote in our interest. I trust Stephanie Niketic to represent me.
KATHLEEN O'CONNOR IVES
Newburyport
© 2023 Committee to Elect Stephanie Niketic