EASTHAMPTON — A 28-year-old resident who moved to the city a decade ago wants to be a city councilor.

Thomas Peake pulled nomination papers Thursday to run for the Precinct 3 position being vacated by longtime councilor Joy E. Winnie, who is leaving her seat after 21 years to make a run for mayor.

Peake grew up in Williamsburg and moved Easthampton about 10 years ago after finishing high school.

“I couldn’t think of living anywhere else,” Peake said of the city.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from University of Massachusetts Amherst and now works as a research analyst for the UMass system.

Peake said his knowledge in economic development could be beneficial to the City Council. One of his concerns is the continuing growth of Easthampton may price out longtime residents, he said.

In his studies, Peake said he has seen how some cities that experience rapid growth also become more expensive to live in. He said a question for Easthampton in the future is how to control affordability.

Caitlin Ashworth can be reached at cashworth@gazettenet.com.

]]>