Kathleen Paquette
Running forWard 5 Alderman
in 2023
Running as Non-Partisan Election
I was raised in Manchester by an elementary school teacher and a high school guidance counselor. I am married to a first responder and an emergency room nurse. I have 4 amazing adult children, and I am a proud grandmother of two perfect baby grandsons. My family is absolutely everything to me. I can often be found curled up reading a book, enjoying live music, or visiting local craft breweries, but my passion is travel. Several years ago, I retired from my career in healthcare to pursue my passion. I am currently a business owner in the travel industry. I am a pug lover, and I have two pugs named Neville and Luna which are both rescues.
I am not a politician, but rather a concerned citizen just like you, who firmly believes in the power of community and the importance of having a strong voice in local government. I am excited to be stepping up to represent Ward 5 and be your voice in our community. While my political experience might not be extensive, I bring with me a wealth of passion and dedication to making positive change happen. One aspect of my relative experience that holds particular significance is my work on grassroots efforts to restore rights to adult adoptees in New Hampshire followed by many other states. Being a part of these initiatives has helped me understand the importance of fighting for fairness and justice, and how a small but determined group of individuals can create a significant impact. In addition, I have been actively involved in grassroots efforts in Washington, D.C., representing the chronic pain community. Through advocacy, education, and collaboration with medical professionals, we have been able to raise awareness and improve the lives of those living with chronic pain.
Current jobI am a local small business owner in the field of tourism.
I worked in healthcare for 25 years with a specialty in geriatrics. I have also worked in both the Manchester School District and the Visiting Nurses
Current residence70 Grand Avenue, Manchester. Ward 5
Time lived in NHI grew up in Manchester. I have been here 46 years.
I grew up here in Manchester and attended the local public schools. I started my journey at Hallsville, then moved on to Southside, and finally Memorial.
After high school, I decided to continue my education right here in our great state of New Hampshire. I attended college and pursued a degree in Physical Therapy. I was determined to specialize in working with our beloved elderly population, so I dedicated myself to further studies and became a Geriatric Specialist.
This educational path opened the doors to an incredible 25-year-long career in healthcare. I've had the privilege of working in various settings that cater to the unique needs of our community. From long-term care facilities to skilled nursing centers and the Manchester Visiting Nurses Association. I've had the opportunity to serve the elderly and disabled populations right here in our own backyard.
I've also had the chance to make a difference in the lives of our young ones. I've worked with organizations like Easter Seals and the Manchester School District, providing physical therapy to the pediatric population. It's been incredibly rewarding to contribute to the well-being and development of our children.
WebsiteKathleen Paquette NH
Why are you running for this office?
I am running for this office because I love this city. I have been here through good times and not-so-good times. I feel as though Manchester is not at her best right now. We desperately need change to grow into a safer city with neighborhoods and schools that we can be proud of. Ward 5 needs someone who listens, responds to and represents its citizens and I feel confident I can be a positive, productive voice for my community and city.
What qualifies you as the best candidate for this office?
I have no special interests to represent, no unions to support, no political career aspirations. The only reason I am running for office is to support and represent my community. I care about my community, and believe that our children and our senior citizens are treasures and they should be treated as such. I believe that transparency, efficiency, equality, collaboration, and accountability are important in humans, businesses, and governments.
What are your thoughts on and plans for addressing homelessness?
Homelessness is a complex issue that can’t be solved by simply throwing money at it. This has been not only ineffective, but also a frustrating strain on taxpayers. It is essential to tackle the root causes, such as mental health struggles, addiction, and housing. Our city has many outreach services making meaningful efforts, but we must work towards streamlining these services to be more efficient, and effective, and to avoid redundancy and costly duplication of services. I firmly believe that collaboration is essential in addressing homelessness. Manchester cannot solve this problem alone. We must urge other communities to step up and offer services to their own residents. Only then can we avoid increasing the homeless population in Manchester, and further straining our resources. We must also remain aware that homelessness affects so much more than just the homeless. It affects the entire city, businesses, communities, homeowners, and tourism. I will work tirelessly and compassionately to try to find effective solutions to the homeless crisis, but I will also support crime prevention efforts, taxpayers, businesses, and property rights.
What are your thoughts on and plans regarding crime and public safety?
I feel that crime and public safety are one of Manchester’s biggest issues. Many people report they no longer feel safe going to the downtown areas, using parks and trails, or even going to the mall. I remember when violent crime in Manchester was actual news, now violent crime is nothing out of the ordinary. Property crimes are a significant concern, and people report they don’t feel that petty crime is being taken seriously. Manchester residents deserve to feel safe. Much needs to be done on a state level to make changes to the judicial system so that violent criminals, and repeat offenders are not back out on our streets. On a local level, we need to work to enforce our current laws. I will support our police, fire and first responders so they have the tools we need to keep our city safe.
What are your thoughts on and/or plans for addressing concerns about property tax rates?
I think that Manchester homeowners are currently carrying enough burden. We are all feeling the pain of this economy and many middle-class families, and senior citizens are at their breaking point. Homeowners don’t deserve, and cannot afford increasing taxes. They deserve a government that spends intelligently, thoughtfully and respectfully.
What are your thoughts on the city's snow removal and trash pickup services?
I believe these services as well as other infrastructure in the city are currently struggling. I am also aware that much is due to staffing shortages.
What are your thoughts on the city's small business climate?
As a small business owner, I understand the struggles of running a business. I am aware of the increased strain and challenges over the past few years. I believe that thriving businesses lead to thriving cities and I will do all I can to support my fellow business owners.
What are your thoughts on and plans on improving parks and recreation in the city?
What are your thoughts on the current state of the city's civic pride and ideas on how to improve it?
I don’t want our city to continue to be known as “Manchganistan.” I want us to join together to do better. We all deserve a clean, vibrant, safe city that we are proud to call home.
What are your thoughts on any neighborhood specific issues in your ward as well as any plans on addressing those issues?
In speaking to many members of my community I have learned that the biggest concern expressed is that of public safety and property safety. I have addressed those above.
What is your view on the main role of an Alderman?
This is what I think the role of an alderman should be: I believe that becoming an Alderman is a commitment to service and a passion for making one’s community the best it can be. An Alderman should be an advocate and a collaborator. They should actively strive to enhance the quality of life for their communities. It is important that they ensure that the voices of community members are heard and valued.
