Lately and Looking Ahead, by Jake

Since joining the Common Council, I have been spending my time doing what I believe good public service requires: listening, learning, and showing up. Even though it’s only been a couple months, I am beginning to see new sides of our city, learn what my neighbors care about, and shape my priorities for the upcoming year. I was grateful to spend a holiday season with family and friends, including celebrating my daughter’s first Christmas. So far her favorite toy is the tissue paper from a gift bag. I hope you all were also able to find peace and rejuvenation over the New Year.

On the policy side, I’ve continued important work on the EMS Commission, where questions of public safety, staffing priorities, funding, and patient care meet in very real and human ways. Fitchburg is fortunate to be served by one of the finest EMS services in the nation and they continue to push toward cutting edge, evidence-based care that puts the community first. That work has deepened my appreciation for the quiet complexity behind services many of us only notice on our hardest days.

I’ve also had the chance to spend time in the community, including attending the Fitchburg “Get Festive with Agora” event, a reminder of how much of our city’s strength comes from the simple act of neighbors gathering together. These moments matter. They are the pulse of a city. I enjoyed some hot cider (with fireball whiskey), holiday tunes, and decorating a cookie with my daughter (she mostly just enjoyed the frosting).

And now, my campaign is officially in full swing!

I am genuinely excited to be out in the community, talking with residents, listening to concerns, sharing ideas, and learning what people want Fitchburg to become. Campaigns should not be mere performances. They should be conversations with people who share a love for their community.

Looking ahead, I remain focused on affordable housing, thoughtful growth, community-centered public safety, environmental stewardship, and honest, transparent governance. I am grateful for the trust placed in me so far, and I am eager to continue earning it.

If you see me out in the neighborhood, please stop me. I love listening to what folks care about! I look forward to a spirited campaign in the coming months. Don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or would like to chat.