Jake:

Our campaign has real momentum coming off the back of our big victory in last month’s preliminary election, and we’re keeping the issues affecting Somervillians at the forefront of what we’re doing every day. On the doors, in conversation with neighbors, and through my work on the City Council, it’s clear homelessness is an issue that touches every area of in Somerville. It's an extremely difficult problem with no easy solutions, but it’s something we need to do much better at addressing.

Our homelessness crisis is a regional crisis. Last week’s Boston Globe Camberville Newsletter talked about this, exploring the changing landscape of crime, support services, and the unhoused population in Cambridge. This regional issue demands a regional response.

We have to coordinate services across our own city and with other communities. It starts with working alongside our neighbors in Cambridge and Boston, but it doesn’t stop there. We need to tackle this crisis head on. From expanding our social services and outreach, to better supporting our shelters and increasing shelter beds, to coordinating policies between police departments, we need to think bigger in addressing this issue. 

It’s a daunting prospect, but I’m energized seeing the care, concern, and thoughtfulness people from all walks of life are bringing to the table as we determine how best to address this issue. We can’t be making excuses or shrugging our shoulders. We have to act with care, compassion, and determination. 

Our public spaces should be clean and safe for all. We have to make sure the short-, medium-, and long-term solutions to homelessness are in place. And we must do this by coordinating our efforts across the region.

I know how to work with people and have a long record of doing so. During my time on the Somerville City Council, I've collaborated with every single colleague on at least one legislative item. As chair of the Finance Committee, I created a process for identifying the Council’s top shared budget priorities and expressing these to the mayor. I’ve worked with members of School Committee during budget season to make sure the School budget meets the needs of the school district.

I’ve been honored to receive the support from a number of my City Council colleagues in the past weeks. They recognize my collaborative approach and know that I’ll be a mayor who is able to achieve policy wins by getting buy-in and support from outside my administration. And that’s critical.

To meet this moment and address the housing and homelessness crisis, we’re going to need to build a broad, strong coalition of leaders from not only our city, but also our region and at the state level. I’m not waiting for Election Day or the inauguration to begin this work. I’m already in contact with leaders from neighboring communities about this and I'm looking to start working on this immediately.

I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to speak to me about this. Those conversations are continuing through November 4 and beyond as we look to respond meaningfully to the issue of homelessness.

Be in touch,

-Jake

Let's keep the momentum going!

This campaign has always been about more than just winning an election. It’s about building a Somerville where every neighbor’s voice is heard, respected, and reflected in the decisions our city makes.

That starts with listening. Every time we knock on a door, we’re having real conversations about what matters most — from safe streets and affordable housing to strong schools and responsive city services. These conversations are helping shape both Jake’s platform and the kind of mayor he’ll be: accountable, accessible, and connected to the people he serves.

You can be part of this work by joining us for an upcoming canvass. No experience needed — we’ll give you everything you need to feel confident and comfortable.

RSVP for a Saturday or Sunday shift now!

On Saturday night, Jake will be back behind the bar for another round of Campaign Cocktail Club. We’ve got a brand new beverage menu of cocktails, mocktails, wine, and beer ready to go. These gatherings are family-friendly, a fun way to catch up with neighbors, and a chance to financially support the campaign while enjoying a night out.

RSVP for Campaign Cocktail Club here!