Michele Miller: District 1
What would you say are the biggest challenges Amherst faces?
We have many, but the biggest challenges are housing, a limited tax base, municipal infrastructure needs, low civic participation, community polarization, and resident mistrust of government bodies (Council, Town Staff, APD).
Our world has significantly changed in the last 18 months, leaving us with new challenges that are not yet fully realized. It is critical for our Town Council to stay attuned to the emerging post-pandemic reality, and to act responsively and resiliently.
Approaching the Town’s challenges requires a great deal of thoughtfulness, but not to the point that we get bogged down. Working together for the greater good of our community, and understanding that what we do today, is the legacy of tomorrow, will help us to achieve our goals.
What relevant experiences and qualities would you bring to the Town Council that would help it work through these challenges constructively and effectively?
To meet the challenges we face, it is essential to focus on repairing past harms and building back trust within the community. We all reside under the same Amherst roof, but our lived experiences are different. When we embrace our differences, whatever they may be, we gain access to much more productivity and harmony as a community.
My experience this year advocating for reparations in the Amherst community has taught me valuable lessons about how to move a complex initiative forward. It is no secret that progress within government takes time and persistence, and laser focus. We have to be mindful of our capacity as a community, and work hard to understand the priorities of all residents.
In a town of “progressives” we have unique languages to express our activism. In my work on reparations, I have learned the value of understanding these languages, to bring me closer to people, and to better recognize where there are shared goals. I have also learned that calling people in (as opposed to calling people out for mistakes, or because they have different viewpoints) is an effective, non-violent approach to working through differences, and making progress.
As a Councilor, I will continue to use my strong instincts and interpersonal skills, and my ability to develop trust with the people I’m working with, to build bridges across the community.
Have you ever served on an elected board or committee in Amherst and if so, what were 3 of your most challenging votes?
I have not served on an elected board or committee, however I have recently been appointed to the African Heritage Reparations Assembly.
What steps would you take to engage low-income residents, renters, residents of color, and other underrepresented voices?
Creating a truly just and equitable Amherst is a top priority for me.
I will work to support Amherst’s Community Participation Team to engage residents and increase participation by underrepresented residents in Town government. I will promote community engagement through personal outreach, district gatherings, and social media. I’ll uplift “Engage Amherst” -- the Town of Amherst’s Online Public Engagement Platform -- and work on other creative, sustainable ways of informing and engaging residents about Town government matters and happenings.
“One Town, One Plan” has been in development and in public discussion for over a decade. The plan is designed to meet the town’s most pressing infrastructure needs in a financially responsible way, and prioritizes the following four projects equally: the Jones Public Library Renovation & Expansion, the Elementary School Building Project, the Department of Public Works Building, and the South Amherst Fire Station. Do you support this plan? Why or why not?
My campaign slogan is “Progress With Purpose” because I believe it is essential to be intentional about the ways in which we seek progress in our community. Our world has drastically changed since the creation of "One Town, One Plan," and our lens, which governs our decisions, needs to be reflective of the current society in which we live.
That said, I believe the capital projects identified by the Town are essential, and accepting state funds to support these projects is critical. Conditions on state funding and grants is unavoidable and should not be seen as a determinant, rather a greater incentive to work together to meet our shared goals.
As a member of the Town Council, how would you engage and communicate with your constituents, including those who have not previously been active in town politics?
District One has a very strong voice and I will work fervidly to amplify it!
During this campaign season, I will focus on getting to know my neighbors through a variety of events and one-on-one meetings. I will work hard to increase voter turn out, for this election, and to lay the foundation for future elections.
As a Councilor, I will make myself accessible to my constituents in a variety of ways. I will hold monthly district meetings, with a focus on accessibility for all. I will participate in the work of our neighborhood association (DONA), and partner with our faith organizations and businesses to understand their needs.
I will listen to constituents equally and lean into challenges (which I see as opportunities) with an open heart and mind. I will strive to appreciate and uplift the work that so many of the residents and business owners in District One are doing to make North Amherst a wonderful place to live.