Transparency: Restoring Trust and Open Government in North Adams

Transparency, to me, means more than just a buzzword; it's a fundamental commitment to open communication and accountability. Here's how I will put it into action:

• Full Commitment to an Independent City Audit: We will immediately initiate a comprehensive, independent audit of our city's finances. This will provide a clear, unbiased picture of our current financial standing, identifying inefficiencies, potential misallocations, and areas for improvement. Every taxpayer deserves to know how their money is being spent.

• Request a Financial Management Review from the Massachusetts Department of Revenue: Beyond a standard audit, I will formally invite the Massachusetts Department of Revenue to conduct a thorough Financial Management Review. This will offer an expert, external perspective on our fiscal practices, guiding us toward best practices and long-term financial health.

• Semi-Monthly Updates: My Commitment to You: You, the citizens of North Adams, deserve to be informed. I will provide regular, semi-monthly updates directly to you about the exact undertakings of my administration. This will include progress on our infrastructure plan, financial decisions, community initiatives, and any significant developments, ensuring you are always in the loop.

• Ensuring Public Records are Readily Available for Public Review: Access to information is a cornerstone of good governance. My administration will ensure that all public records are not only accessible but readily available for public review through user-friendly systems and clear processes. No more roadblocks or delays; your right to information will be respected and facilitated.

It's time to pull back the curtain and usher in an era of open, honest, and accountable government in North Adams. With transparency as our guiding principle, we can rebuild trust, make informed decisions together, and finally set our city on a course for sustainable growth and prosperity.