Nicole Klein-Knight
Running forWard 4 Alderman
in 2020
Running as
Second-term state representative.
A communications specialist for a Fortune 500 company.
Bachelor's of Fine art sculpture.
Best way to contact candidateNicole.klein.knight@gmail.com
603-380-8074
Why are you running?
I am running to help address the growing problems for the every day Manchester resident. I care about providing mental health resources to our community, strengthening our public schools, assist in housing affordability, address the growing need for disability and workers rights, and work on criminal justice reforms.
What uniquely qualifies you to be an Alderman?
My political and professional work experience makes me qualified to hit the ground running. In my time at the statehouse, I have been able to pass multiple pieces of law even in this most divisive and tumultuous time.
What do you see as the main function of an Alderman?
To address the concerns of your communities, being available to contact for questions and collaboration. Being representative for all people, not just a select few.
What do you see as the key solution to reducing homelessness in the city?
Providing housing is the first step in addressing houselessness. Community care and accessibility to healthcare needs is a must. Treating everyone in need with the respect and dignity that they deserve.
Do you feel that Manchester needs more affordable housing as defined by US HUD and NHHFA (costing no more than 30% of occupants' monthly income)? If so, how would you achieve this? If not, why not?
Yes, Manchester does need more affordable housing! We need to provide tax incentives to landlords and build a certain percentage of affordable housing based off our population needs. Looking at our zoning laws and how they may need to be updated to fit the cities current need.
What are your thoughts on public safety in the city?
Public safety is important, we live in a time where tempers are flaring and people are quite sensitive to our current state of world events. I believe we need more community outreach programs and counselors. Most public safety calls are mental health crisis calls. This needs to be addressed by mental health professionals.
Please provide one or more examples of a person, organization, or business that exemplifies the spirit of Manchester
My ward and the people living here exemplify the spirit of Manchester. When the pandemic hit, members of my ward came together to make sure other members were safe, sheltered, eating, my people made over 3,000 masks to donate to the Elliot, CMC, Manchester Mental Health, churches, and other small businesses. I’m extremely proud of my people and want them to know they give me the energy needed to pursue this public service position.
How would you describe the city's current infrastructure and business climate?
What are the strengths and weaknesses of the Manchester School District? What is the top need for improvement or change?
We need to make sure each child is getting the education they deserve. I plan to work closely with the school board and collaborate on what is needed whether that means updated facilities, more teachers, new tools. Quality public education is one of my top priorities.
Do you support the budgetary autonomy of the Manchester School District's governing body? (currently known as the Board of School Committee, but proposed to be renamed as the Manchester School Board). If so, why (or why not?)
Yes, because I want the board to be separate from the Alderman. These are separate departments. The school board is elected to make those specific education decisions for their community. They work directly with the public schools and educators to identify the needs of the schools and how we can fix these problems. The autonomous decision-making of the school board is designed to have experts working many hours on the specific needs of our children in our city.
What is the greatest strength of your ward and what needs improvement? For at-large candidates, what is the greatest strength of the city as a whole and what is in need of improvement?
Our strength is the diversity we have in Ward 4.