The information contained in this article is not intended as legal advice and may no longer be accurate due to changes in the law. Consult NHMA's legal services or your municipal attorney.
What are your duties and responsibilities as a City Councilor in Concord?
My primary duties and responsibilities revolve around communication, consensus building, and decision-making. I represent the voice of my specific ward at the Council table and, in turn, convey the perspectives from various committees back to the Council. Community consensus building often focuses on larger-scale projects impacting Concord. Finally, the decision-making aspect involves critical responsibilities such as setting policy, adopting the annual budget, and providing oversight of our Executive Leader, the City Manager.
What is your biggest challenge in performing your duties?
It’s fitting that Merriam-Webster selected “Polarization” as the 2024 Word of the Year. Polarity is increasingly evident, even when the Council table should function as a non-partisan board. My greatest challenge is navigating this environment while ensuring that my vote reflects the voice of our community—not for myself or any political party. Maintaining the integrity of that conviction is what matters. Our residents deserve this in their representatives.
How has NHMA helped you to do your role?
NHMA has been an invaluable resource in navigating the complexities of serving as an elected official in a municipal entity. While I don’t need to memorize every state law, it’s crucial to understand that New Hampshire is a Home Rule state with certain limitations on local decision-making. NHMA provides the guidance and support needed to make informed decisions within those boundaries.
Give us an example of a problem you solved or a dilemma you faced and overcame in the line of duty?
One of the greatest challenges for an elected official is providing effective constituent support, especially during difficult times like the COVID-19 pandemic. I take pride in knowing my ward well, and this familiarity was strengthened years earlier when several community members completed Citizen Emergency Response Training (CERT) through the Concord Fire Department. During the pandemic, I maintained constant communication with my CERT leaders, which allowed me to stay connected with and assist the most vulnerable members of my ward. This collaboration was vital in ensuring our community remained informed and supported.
What is the public perception about your role and how does it differ from the reality of your position?
The public often perceives a City Councilor as someone with broad, unilateral decision-making authority. In reality, the role requires a collaborative approach, balancing diverse perspectives while working within the legal and financial constraints of municipal government. Much of my work involves consensus-building, policy making, and ensuring that the voices of my constituents are heard—far more complex than simply casting a vote at meetings.
Tell us a story about an unusual experience you have had while doing your role.
Until you’ve experienced a string of colorful Yankee swears ringing through your phone directly into your ear, you haven’t fully tasted the joys of public service. One memorable instance involved a gentleman furiously shouting, “The (expletive) Mayor hung up on me!” I calmly responded, “And so will I, sir, if you don’t stop swearing in my ear.” His concern was that over the Christmas break, the assessing department hadn’t yet posted his property tax payment, and he didn’t want his neighbors to think he was a deadbeat. After assuring him I would investigate, we confirmed his payment had been received, and it was promptly updated. All ended well, with a little extra holiday cheer.
Has your public position changed you personally?
Yes! I once viewed the world through a more self-centered lens, believing I knew best for our community. However, I’ve had the privilege of learning from some exceptional community leaders who broadened my perspective. Former Concord Mayor Bill Veroneau taught me to make decisions based on the information at hand, while former State Representative Jim Kinhan emphasized the value of listening and considering opposition. Former Mayor Jim Bouley encouraged me to trust myself and embrace the role I was elected for. And, my greatest mentor, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, taught me that women belong at the decision-making table.
Has your perception changed the way you look at the role of government?
Absolutely. Serving as a City Councilor has deepened my understanding of how government operates at the local level and the significant impact it has on people’s daily lives. I’ve come to appreciate that local government is where meaningful change truly begins—where policies and decisions directly influence the well-being of our communities. It has taught me that government is not some distant entity but rather a collaborative effort involving residents, elected officials, and dedicated city staff. It’s a balancing act between long-term vision and immediate needs, and I’ve grown to respect the intricate process of navigating those dynamics while always striving to serve the public interest.
What lessons about human nature have you learned in your municipal role?
I’ve learned that people care deeply about their community, but their perspectives are often shaped by personal experiences and emotions. It’s natural for individuals to view issues through the lens of how it directly affects them or their family. As a City Councilor, I’ve come to understand the importance of listening—not just to respond, but to truly hear concerns and find common ground. I’ve also discovered that kindness and patience go a long way in building
trust, especially when addressing difficult or contentious matters. Ultimately, most people want to be heard and respected, even when they disagree.
What advice would you give someone who would like to follow in your footsteps into this role?
I took a winding path to get here but I would advise them to start by getting to know their community deeply—its values, its concerns, and its potential. Serving as a City Councilor isn’t just about making decisions; it’s about being a true representative of the people. Build relationships, listen actively, and be ready to engage in tough conversations. Public service requires patience, persistence, and the ability to compromise while staying true to your values. Most importantly, remember that it’s about serving others, not yourself. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow in ways you never anticipated.
Do you dislike any aspects of your job? Which ones? Why?
I dislike when people speak only to complain, especially when their criticism is laced with anger and offers no constructive solutions or alternative perspectives. As a City Councilor, my role is to collaborate, find solutions, and work toward the betterment of the community. When people focus only on the problem without contributing to the solution, it undermines the spirit of cooperation and progress that drives me in this work. Constructive dialogue and a willingness to engage in problem-solving are essential to making meaningful change.
Given the opportunity, what changes would you make to the position?
If I could make changes, I would encourage more empathy in the way we approach decisions and interactions. Too often, ego and personal opinions cloud the ability to see beyond one’s own situation. As public servants, we need to remember that we are part of something larger, and the needs of the many often outweigh the voice of a single individual. I would foster an environment where listening goes both ways—where we can hear different perspectives, find
common ground, and always keep the greater good at the forefront of our work.
Anything else you would like to discuss about your role?
I encourage others to run, serve, and volunteer within their communities. As Abraham Lincoln said in the Gettysburg Address, “Of the people, by the people, for the people,” and this starts at the local level. At the municipal board, we are the voice of the people who’ve guided us through their committee service and input at public hearings. There is no greater reward than knowing you can help shape your community for the better. It’s not all challenges—we live in New Hampshire, a place where we are here to thrive.