Deborah Riley

Email

ElectDeborahRiley@gmail.com

Website and/or Social Media Links

www.ElectDeborahRiley.com

Why do you believe you are the best candidate to represent Quincy residents at this time? 

I am an independent candidate and have been self employed for over 18 years. I have a background in technology and financial management. My opinions will be formed from information and data, not by special interests or pressure to approve a favored initiative. I am not afraid to speak up and advocate for the people of Quincy and Ward 6.

What three issues are you most concerned about, and if elected, how will you address them?

TAXES! TAXES! TAXES!

no, seriously, we cannot keep taking on debt, giving tax breaks and sweet long term deals while the burden to pay for all is on the everyday tax payers. $1.6 Billion dollars in bond debt, $3.5 missing from the pension system that has not been returned, a federally indicted long time department head stealing from our seniors. The same seniors who are struggling to stay in their homes with rising taxes and have no 55+ housing options to move into. Excessive spending on parks, statues, entertainment and recreation. We need the auditor to AUDIT as is spelled out in the city charter, Article III especially the purchasing department, treasury department, community preservation fund and the payments made from Quarry Hills. We need to maximize revenue from other sources and be fiscally responsible to our taxpayers.

If elected, what steps will you take to ensure responsiveness and clear communication between you and the Quincy community?

I will start with timely and relevant emails communications, social media posts and regular office hours. Not all problems can be solved quickly but I will listen and look for solutions that are within my control. Relying on snail mail for important and timely communication is archaic and receiving them a couple times a year is irresponsible.

What do you plan to do about Quincy’s $1.6 billion debt? 

I certainly won't vote to add to it. One of my favorite quotes is from billionaire Warren Buffet: "You don't find out who's swimming naked until the tide goes out". Despite the pandemic and inflation, we have been in an economically favorable climate for well over a decade. The tide will go out folks and I hope everyone has an emergency fund, has managed their debts wisely and can scale back on spending when necessary. This applies to people and municipalities/institutions.

What do you think is the most important role of being a City Councillor? 

To be the voice and advocate for the citizens of Quincy. To question and challenge the measures that are brought before the council and to debate them fiercely before making an informed decision to YEA or NEA. I have seen very little of that in recent years. I am hopeful that as an elected official I will have more cooperation and responsive communications from city officials.

What will you do to increase civic participation and voter turnout in Quincy? 

I think we will see a bump up in turnout with so many great candidates running for office. When it's the same-old-same-old, people stay home. When they don't like the choices, they choose not to participate. I think we can turn that around a bit this time. Politics is local, this is our chance to make a difference in local matters that affect everyday residents.

Will you advocate for the City Council to allow the opportunity for public comment at every City Council meeting?

Yes