I’m proud to enthusiastically support Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra’s reelection campaign. With eight years on City Council before her election as mayor — including a unanimous election as council president in 2019 — Sciarra is by far the most experienced and qualified candidate. Her many accomplishments prove she is not only qualified but also highly effective.
Since taking office in 2022, Mayor Sciarra has increased Northampton Public Schools funding by 32%. Her annual increases of at least 5% represent the largest sustained boost to the school budget in the past 50 years. These investments show her deep commitment to the city’s children, educators, and the long-term strength of our schools.
She has also championed downtown revitalization, supporting community events like Summer on Strong and Taste of Northampton, and helping the Iron Horse reopen with federal pandemic relief (ARPA) funds — strengthening both our economy and cultural life. Her advancement of Picture Main Street reflects her understanding that a thriving downtown is essential to Northampton’s future.
Sciarra has supported 282 new affordable housing units, expanded tax exemptions and abatements for income-eligible seniors and veterans, and used ARPA funds to address food insecurity, health care access, and housing and shelter services.
Mayor Sciarra has delivered real progress for Northampton, and reelecting her will help build a stronger, more resilient city for us all. I urge my fellow residents to vote for her in the Sept. 16 preliminary election, and ultimately reelect her in November.
Sarah Smith
Northampton