Election Day Candidate Spotlight:

2.3 min readBy Published On: October 29th, 2015Categories: News0 Comments on Election Day Candidate Spotlight:

Michael Flaherty 

There’s an election coming up on Tuesday, November 3rd.  One of the people you will be voting for will be City Council at-Large.  There are five candidates running for four spots: Michael Flaherty, Stephen Murphy, Ayanna Pressley, Michelle Wu and Annissa Assaibi George.  

As part of an Election Day Series, here’s a little Q&A with Michael Flaherty:

South Boston is in parking crisis mode.  What are your ideas on how to create parking spots?
We need to increase the parking requirements for all new development. Currently, the BRA is discussing how to rezone South Boston, and I will be a strong advocate for ensuring all zoning requirements include sufficient on-site parking for new projects. I am also in favor of being creative around our municipal parking lots and Boston Public School parking lots that would serve local businesses during the day and early evenings and our residents overnight. 

Do you take the MBTA?  When was the last time?
As an At-Large City Councilor, I am constantly criss-crossing the city to meet with constituents and attend various meetings and events. For this reason, it usually makes more sense for me to drive. However, when going to events that are convenient to the MBTA, I will take advantage of the train as much possible to avoid traffic, meter maids, and the challenges of finding parking. 

Are you for spot savers?
Yes! Southie has been using spot savers for as long as I can remember. I defend spot savers because I understand the pride of ownership when someone works hard to clear their parking space. I think they should be respected for up to 48 hours, or possibly longer, depending on the amount of snowfall. 

Name something that people would be surprised to learn about you?
I make homemade red wine from oak barrels.

What is your standard Sully’s order?
2 hot dogs with M&O and a side of fries

Why should people vote for you?
I am a lifelong resident of Southie and I am raising my family in Southie. I am an experienced At-Large City Councilor who knows Boston and works hard for all of its neighborhoods. If re-elected, I will continue to fight for better schools, safer and cleaner streets, and more affordable housing opportunities. In addition, I will renew my call for treatment on-demand to address the current heroin epidemic and to provide hope and recovery for those struggling with addiction.

If you would like to learn more about Michael, visit: http://www.michaelflaherty.com  There will be an Election Day Rally Thursday, October 29th from 6pm-8pm at Touchie’s Shamrock Pub at the corner of H and East Eighth.