When my young family bought a home in Easthampton decades ago, I was more worried about diapers and naptimes than how I would live alone as a senior. But life moves fast and unpredictably, and I now find myself living alone, my 55th birthday on the near horizon, with the cost of real estate, utilities and basic essentials at terrifyingly high levels.
Thankfully, Salem Derby has worked tirelessly for the past 20 years as city councilor to make this landscape realistic and manageable as I move into my next life phase. Salem has supported proposals for the downtown strategic plan to allow for more housing options for both seniors and young people, and has put in countless hours of work on zoning to make this a reality. Salem is committed to redeveloping vacant properties not only for housing but also parking and community use — all things that will make my life easier as I age.
Upon becoming Interim mayor last summer, mayor Derby had the opportunity to continue this work and, if elected in November, can keep it as a priority for our city. Salem Derby has the experience, educational background and commitment that assure me Easthampton will be a safe and supportive community to live in for years to come. Please join me in ranking Salem Derby first on your ballot for mayor!
Rachel Achmad
Easthampton