Issues

“Concord is a wonderful community with a lot to offer families and small businesses. We need to continue to grow our local economy, invest in our neighborhoods and open spaces, and plan for the future. As a City Councilor, I work to put residents first and keep our city strong, for this generation and the next.” – City Councilor Zandra Rice Hawkins

Support the Local Economy and Expand Our Revenue Base

The City Council plays a critical role in creating an environment that attracts and retains quality businesses that contribute to our local economy, provide jobs, and expand our revenue base. As a young professional working in the heart of downtown for the last 15 years and a community leader concerned about vibrant, small businesses and responsible economic growth all across Concord, I support economic development in the city that invests in our future and creates more opportunities for all of us.

Strong Support for Public Services and First Responders

Our city is only as strong as the public services that keep it running. Our families and small businesses deserve our best, including having enough first responders and equipment to keep our families and community safe. In particular, we need to ensure police and fire have the support they need to confront the opioid epidemic and other challenges that our first responders deal with on a daily basis.

Support Affordable Housing

The lack of affordable housing is an existential threat to the ability for Concord working families to afford to live in our community, and for those already in homes to be able to stay here, especially our elderly. The City Council is responsible for ConcordNext zoning updates which can provide residents with more housing options while preserving the character of our city. Public transportation options and complete streets initiatives are interconnected issues here, which allow families to seek housing in different areas of Concord and still be able to easily access jobs, groceries, schools, and health care.

Protect Concord Parks & Natural Open Spaces

Protecting our open spaces is important, especially in Ward 10 which is blessed with great community trails and the NH Forest Society’s Merrimack River Outdoor Education & Conservation Area. As a mother, I am eager to make sure our local parks and other area attractions stay updated and accessible to all. I support efforts to make our pools and play areas accessible friendly areas for children and families with different abilities, so that we can all enjoy what Concord has to offer.

Improve Infrastructure and Quality of Life

We need to invest in infrastructure, our roads, and complete street (walkable, rideable) neighborhoods. Our residents and small businesses need to be able to rely on sturdy roads to work and play, and we increase Concord’s appeal when we think forward about creating alternative ways to move around Concord for families and workers.

Create a Strong and Welcoming Concord

As a City Councilor and as a community member, I want every Concord resident to feel the sense of belonging and community our own family enjoys. We must continue our work toward diversity, equity, and inclusion justice and belonging. We also must send a strong message that hate has no home in Concord. Our community cannot thrive if our neighbors are threatened and our small businesses targeted. In these moments, elected officials must come together swiftly to condemn hate activity and provide support to our community members and small businesses. We must use our city departments and resources to create strong plans that ensure the public safety and dignity of all Concord residents.