Issues
Economy
Our state and country are struggling through one of the deepest recessions in decades. Creating good paying, stable jobs in our state is a top priority for Jerry. Targeted tax credits for new-growth jobs in industries such as green technology, life sciences and biotech will provide the incentive for companies to bring these high level jobs to our state. Massachusetts has one of the highest energy costs in the nation, so Jerry will look at renewable energy programs like wind and solar power to not only provide jobs, but help reduce our nation’s dependence on foreign oil. Jerry also believes promoting tourism will create jobs and bring much-needed revenue to our state. It is estimated some 128,000 jobs are directly related to tourism, and dollars spent here from out of state visitors will create jobs for our citizens and provide much-needed revenue to the Commonwealth.
Education
K-12
With his daughter Sophia in the first grade, Jerry understands one of the most essential functions of our state and local government is providing quality public education. He is grateful for the quality public education he received growing up in Beverly, and will support efforts to improve quality in the system for today’s youth.
Jerry understands that local aid cuts have put a burden on our City, as it tries to provide top-notch education with dwindling financial resources. Beverly receives less local aid today than it did in 2001, yet costs continue to rise. Jerry will fight to restore local aid and Chapter 70 education funds. Jerry will also work with our city leaders to ensure the high school and new vocational school receive the reimbursements promised by the state.
Higher Education
Massachusetts is home to many prestigious colleges and universities, attracting students from around the world. Yet, tuition costs are out of reach for most local families. With a stepson, Chris, who is a junior at Salem State University, Jerry understands how expensive college can be, and Jerry himself worked in construction for several years to save money to enroll at Emerson College, and eventually go to Law School. Jerry supports our public colleges and universities in their efforts to provide high quality education affordable to all.
Veterans
Our nation owes its freedom to those who serve in our armed forces. As a 16 year veteran of the Army Reserve, Jerry considers it an honor to serve his country and will fight to ensure veterans receive the benefits they rightly deserve. He understands the challenges our service members and veterans face as they return home after serving our country. Jerry’s Reserve duties included deployment to Bosnia, as well as providing free legal assistance to soldiers and their families at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Jerry also volunteers for the Massachusetts Bar Association’s veterans Dial-A-Lawyer program. He finds it troubling that almost one-third of the adult homeless population are veterans, and will work with veteran’s groups to take care of those who served our country.
Transportation
Jerry believes a modern transportation system is critical to ensuring the economic growth of our state. He is a strong supporter of the new commuter garage to be located near the Beverly Depot, which will not only provide residents with a much needed place to park, but also help the environment by promoting public transportation. He also supports the proposed connector road that would provide easier access to the North Shore Music Theater site, which will ease the traffic burden on that neighborhood and provide development opportunities to create jobs and increase revenue to our City.