Vote Medford 2005

Frederick Dello Russo Jr.

Candidate for Medford City Council

candidate email: info@dellorusso.net

View the complete City Council questionnaire.

Dello Russo: Q1 - Medford Square Revitalization

Medford Square is moving in the right direction and I hope to be part of the developing master plan. Prospering locally owned small businesses, a renewed traffic flow and parking plan, an elimination of the ring road, a better incorporation of one our greatest treasures: the Mystic River are what I envision. Medford Square should once again be a destination point for people and not an inconvenient stop. A positive process that will continue to build on the strengths of Medford and draw from the talented people who live and work here is what we need to be successful.

Dello Russo: Q2 - Social, Cultural and Historical Assets

How many cities can boast of lakes and a historic river, a prestigious university, a Richardson church, a Colonial manor and a Victorian estate. We share in a vast public transit system, benefit from active conservation groups and promote the performing arts at Springstep and Chevalier Theater. All of these and many more help make Medford a culturally rich and attractive home. Fortunately, Medford is full of citizens who take their social responsibility seriously and actively promote and enhance many of our treasures. Our recent jubilee parade showcased the pride we share in Medford. As a city councilor I will be active in the promotion and support of these assets and encourage partnerships with small businesses so that each share in and support revitalization efforts.

Dello Russo: Q3 - Encouraging Small Businesses

Many of Medford's small businesses are expanding and enhancing the city. It is the duty of City officials to encourage and support small business. As a small business owner in Medford, I know the need for collaboration between business owners and elected officials. Small business owners need to invest in our city to see a positive return. They need to make efforts to ease areas of congestion and keep their places of business attractive. The City has to continue with the good supports it already offers by way of regular street sweeping in business areas, finding creative ways of easing traffic and parking problems which do not harm business or local residents. The City has to find a way of helping an over burdened DPW give incentives to local businesses such as preferred snow removal and sidewalk care.

Dello Russo: Q4 - On Low- and Moderate-income Families

If one takes a look through our neighborhoods, it is easy to conclude that Medford is a place where many working class families make their home. The period of the 1940's and 50's saw a great influx of moderate-income families populate our neighborhoods, contribute to our community and thrive as families up to this day. Social, political, cultural and economic diversity are as much a distinguishing trait of Medford as is the Royal House and the Riverbend Victory Garden. As a councilor I will work to see that future development always include opportunities for low and moderate priced housing and incentives for first-time homeowners. A strong public school system is priceless.

Dello Russo: Q5 - Environmental Issues

Medford has an array of environmental treasures such as the Mystic Lakes and Mystic River, Wrights Pond, wooded areas along South Boarder Road, and the parks along the river at Wellington. The City should continue to work with State agencies such as the Department of Environmental Protection to ensure that systems of regular maintenance are in place. I support ongoing efforts to monitor and abate contamination in the Mystic River.

Dello Russo: Q6 - Open Spaces, Sidewalks, and Trees

I recently returned from a business trip to Chicago. I was impressed by the attention and care that city pays to its public areas. Medford has made great strides. Almost all of the parks have been renovated; a war memorial, which everyone can be proud of, has been erected and dedicated; resurfacing of Salem St. is underway; we have four new schools; sponsorships from local businesses to maintain green areas are in place. Much has been done but more is needed. As a city councilor I would support a program of zero deferred maintenance for our public places. In the budget process I hope to bring my business and academic experience to creatively find ways to allocate funds for this purpose.

Dello Russo: Q7 - Street Safety

The city responds very well to matters of public safety. We are fortunate to have dedicated people working in our police and fire departments as well as in public works. When dangerous traffic patterns or road conditions are identified, the problem is resolved. Pedestrian crossings are clearly marked in School zones, areas with many seniors and recreation areas. Regular police presence in some busy areas would help the flow of motor, bicycle and pedestrian traffic. As a city councilor I would support and work towards sufficient staffing for public safety and public works departments.

Dello Russo: Q8 - Green Line

I do not support extending the Green Line to Medford at this time. Sufficient information has not been made available to the public to make an informed decision. While some suggestions for the extension have more merit than do others, such as perhaps limiting the extension to the Tufts area, I have listened to the concerns of many residents, especially people from the West Medford neighborhood. West Medford is served by: an existing commuter rail, an express bus route during workdays and existing bus routes every day. People are anxious about the possibility of losing property by eminent domain, additional congestion, non-resident parking, additional burdens on an understaffed police department, and the location of the terminal point and turn-around. I cannot support an un-detailed proposal that has raised such concern in West Medford.

Dello Russo: Q9 - Rising Energy Costs

Rising energy costs are going to strain the budget. It is happening to every one as the days grow shorter and colder. Many businesses, mine included, already feel the burden of increased fuel costs. A common sense approach is needed. Efforts should be made to conserve whenever possible. Interdepartmental cooperation will also be essential.