Patricia Devine Pursues At-Large Council Seat in Holyoke
Patricia Devine is campaigning for an at-large council seat in Holyoke, as the city prepares for elections on Tuesday. With a history of public service in Holyoke, Devine aims to leverage her extensive experience to contribute to the city’s governance.
Patricia Devine’s Background
Devine, 74, resides at 58 Magnolia Ave. She is a retired professional and began her political career as the Ward 6 city councilor from 1990 to 2000. She was elected at-large again in 2006, serving six years. Currently, she is chair of the finance committee and active on both public safety and development committees.
Professional Experience
- Former assistant business manager for the Office and Professional Employees Union Local 6 in Boston.
- Retired from the Massachusetts State Lottery after a notable career.
- First woman to join the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade Committee in 1987 and served as president in 1999.
- Served as the grand marshal of the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade in 2016.
Key Issues and Solutions
Devine has articulated several pressing issues facing Holyoke, along with her proposed solutions:
Addressing Hunger
With SNAP benefits ending on November 1, Devine identifies hunger as a significant challenge. She plans to engage in food drives, particularly at City Hall and community venues, to assist those in need.
Balancing Taxes and Services
Devine prioritizes keeping taxes low while maintaining necessary services. She acknowledges that property values have increased, which can misrepresent tax levels. To balance these needs, she advocates for prudent spending and retaining skilled employees.
Housing Challenges
The ongoing housing crisis requires immediate attention. Devine notes the city’s current housing developments but emphasizes the importance of making rental options affordable for both residents and newcomers.
Attracting Development
Devine envisions attracting developments that generate jobs and increase tax revenue. Her focus is on initiatives that benefit the community economically while enhancing Holyoke’s overall landscape.
As the elections approach, Patricia Devine’s commitment to addressing the critical issues of hunger, taxation, housing, and economic development underscores her candidacy for the at-large councilor position in Holyoke.
