James Devine

Email

devine4quincy@gmail.com

Website and/or Social Media Links

Facebook, Devine for Ward 4

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

I believe I am the best candidate because I am a regular Ward 4 neighbor. I have raised my two children through four Quincy public schools, three in ward 4. I understand how our community works and I think I will be the best voice to adjudicate for Ward 4. I enjoy connecting with people, this is a large part of being a Councillor. You need to be able to reach the people and represent them to other levels of Government. My education in High School and University will give me the ability to have decisive and conscious actions on City Council matters. Lastly, as the current Ward 4 Councillor since February of 2023, I have forged great working relationships ships with all the departments that are implemetal to getting things done for our Neighborhood.

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

First and fore most, Accountability of our Ward 4 Councillor is my biggest concern, I want a Councillor that is responsible and responsive to the residents of Ward 4. I will tackle this by being totally transparent to the constituents of Ward 4. Making myself available to everyone that needs assistance. I will continue to work closely with the city to make sure we are heard in Ward 4. This is the job that I have signed up for and plan to be the best. Currently I offer any times for meetings, I have replace scheduled bi-monthly meetings for appointments at almost anytime. Neighbors have all different schedules, I am available from 6am to 9pm daily including Sunday’s. I find that when I meet at a neighbor’s house, it is easier for them, 90% of the time the problem is on there street.

Second, Traffic is a big concern that people expressed while door knocking. I have tackled this by working closely with our traffic director Grennon, supporting him and working with DCR and MassDot. Since Furnace Brook Parkway and Route 93 runs through Ward 4. I aggressively helped with the new lights at Riccutie Drive, working with the Mayor, Senator Keenan, Representative Ayers, and the Traffic Department. I also work very closely with the Police Department to address hot spots for speeding.

Third over development, was also expressed. We need to develop consciously. The way I will tackle this is by being vigilant to the proposed projects that are not suited for Ward 4 constituents. Having meetings early and connecting all the neighbors with said projects. A lot of time can be saved by having a meeting between a builder and neighbors, to see where common ground can be found. Once again being transparent can help accelerate and have a better end result by having open dialogue and informing all parties of their intentions. I have stopped several projects in a few small neighborhoods and reduced the size of several to better suit the neighborhoods.

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

I started a e-news letter last year that I am building on every day, I encourage anyone that wants “up to date information” to reach out and be added to the list. Also the City website has a page under all the Councillors that has current information. I use mailers and also hand deliver information letters often. When I hand deliver them it is an opportunity to meet more neighbors.

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

We can look into allocating more funds to pay the debt down. One third of this debt is $475 million in bonds to essentially fully funded our pension obligation at an interest rate of 2.62%. Lastly, we can examine current spending and look into it, working to maintain current debt levels.

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

Listing to and meeting the neighbors needs. Not just traffic and taxes. But Flooding issues, road maintenance, parking issues, construction issues, noise issues, neighbor issues, etc. The most important thing is “boots on the ground”, my favorite part is helping individuals with concerns they need answers to.

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

Well, Quincy Vote’s does a great job, our City Election Department does an amazing job. They go to so many events to help register voters. The problem is, it starts at home, parents should be teaching civic responsibility. I encourage everyone one I meet to vote, at this level you have the most direct impact.

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

Yes