I write today in support of my best friend Joel McAuliffe who is seeking re-election to his Ward 1 City Council seat in our hometown of Chicopee. Two years ago, I wrote that there was no one better suited for the job of city councilor than Joel. In those nearly two years since, he has proven me correct.

Councilor McAuliffe has worked to move the ball on municipal broadband, improve quality of life in Ward 1, and put Chicopee on the map as a great place to live, work, and raise a family. In fact, in the coming months, Chicopee Crossroads Fiber will be coming to Ward 1, much due to pressure from the community and from Joel.

I have spent the last 10 years or so watching the City Council and its actions, and I have a great deal of respect for all those who have served on this very important board. But I feel that there is a great deal of complacency, as if we are living through the “We’ve always done it this way” mantra. As a lifelong resident, Chicopee educator, and someone who genuinely believes in the endless potential of this city, I believe Joel McAuliffe is best poised to push the envelope and help to position Chicopee as a hometown we can continue to be proud of.

On Tuesday, November 5, I respectfully ask all Ward 1 voters to re-elect Joel D. McAuliffe.

Joshua Clark
Chicopee