This profile is part of a “Meet the Candidate” series. All candidates were given the opportunity to answer the same questions. Their responses are published verbatim, without any editing.
Why did you decide to run for office?
I had been considering a run for City Council for some time, and met with my wife, several trusted community members, and individuals with political experience to gauge support for such a decision. As schools represent one of the few legally mandated services provided by cities, and account for approximately 60% of the municipal budget, I felt a strong sense of responsibility to carefully weigh this potential role.
I remained undecided for awhile. However, during this year’s budget hearings, it became clear to me that the City Council would greatly benefit from having members with direct, recent experience in the public schools – individuals who deeply understand the schools’ operations, priorities, and governance. It is important to recognize that while the City Council approves the overall School District budget, the School Committee has sole authority over educational matters and how that budget is allocated. That said, both bodies would benefit from improved communication and collaboration, which is something I am committed to advancing.
If elected, what would be your top 3 priorities?
1. Communication/repairing the relationship with the School District
2. Ward 3 infrastructure improvements, particularly the Merrimac/Kent St. intersection, and other Livable Streets initiatives
3. Waterfront West
How has prior experience (either professional or personal) prepared you for this role?
I’ve been on the School Committee for 8 years, served as the Vice Chair for one year, and as Chair of the Finance subcommittee for 3 years.
What can city government do to make local housing more affordable?
Build more affordable housing, like the proposed Kmart development. Reducing property taxes for seniors on fixed or lower incomes is a worthwhile goal, but any such program must be carefully structured, taking both active and passive income and assets into account. At the same time, it’s important to recognize that many residents live on constrained budgets. A tiered, income-based property tax relief program could provide more equitable support across the community.
That said, we have limited ability to influence rising home values. We can’t advocate for a free market system and then reject its outcomes when property values increase as a result. Striking the right balance between market forces and community affordability is key.
Do you think residents are getting their money’s worth in city services from taxes?
I do, though I realize that the services may not happen as quickly as people would like.
How would you balance historic preservation with more practical concerns like safety and accessibility?
I assume this relates to the ongoing discussion about downtown sidewalks. In my view, brick is a superior material, both for its aesthetic appeal and its historical significance. The issue isn’t with the material itself, but with how it’s maintained. When damage occurs, repairing a few displaced bricks is generally simpler and more cost-effective than replacing an entire concrete slab that has been lifted by a tree root. Proper maintenance planning and funding is key to preserving both functionality and character.
How do you think Newburyport schools stack up against others in Essex County?
We have an excellent school district, and neighboring districts often look to us as a model. When making comparisons, however, we typically focus on other districts within the Cape Ann League rather than Essex County as a whole. Essex County is quite large and includes cities with vastly different demographics, funding challenges, and resources. For example, many Essex County districts receive federal funding that Newburyport does not qualify for, making direct comparisons less meaningful. It’s important to compare ourselves with communities that face similar circumstances and constraints.
What else should voters know about you?
As I mentioned in my initial campaign announcement, schools are at the heart of any community, and their health and success impact every other aspect of community life. I am known for being direct and unafraid to engage with challenging issues head-on. At the same time, I value humor and perspective, often believing that a well-timed dose of sarcasm can bring levity and clarity to even the most serious discussions.
Brian Callahan is a candidate for Newburyport City Council, Ward 3. Election and early voting information can be found here.
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