Tony Sapienza

Running forWard 5 Alderman
in 2023
Running as Non-Partisan Election
I have served as the Alderman of Ward 5 since May of 2015.
Current jobI represent union workers across Maine and NH.
I spent most of my career as a union member working for Eversource.
I am a graduate of the Manchester school system and UNH. I spent most of my career as a union member working for Eversource and now represent union workers across Maine and NH. I have served as the Alderman of Ward 5 since May of 2015.
Best way to contact candidate603-624-6943
asapienza@manchesternh.gov
Why are you running?
I am running to represent my neighborhood and all of Ward 5.
What uniquely qualifies you to be an Alderman?
I have lived in this Ward my whole life and my experience on the Board of Alderman has taught me how to understand the city’s budgeting and funding processes enabling me to make sure Ward 5 gets its fair share of funding.
What do you see as the main function of an Alderman?
Serving individual constituents when they need city services.
What do you see as the key solution to reducing homelessness in the city?
All hands on deck, working together and a statewide focus on mental health services.
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?
We absolutely need that. We also need relief for middle-income people. We need to use State and Federal funds to partner with the private sector. I will not use funds from property taxes for this purpose.
What are your thoughts on public safety in the city?
Public safety is job one, we are fortunate to have the police and fire services that we do.
Please provide one or more examples of a person, organization, or business that exemplifies the spirit of Manchester.
This city is full of concerned citizens volunteering in many different capacities to improve our city. It is easy to criticize but working hard to improve things is what makes Manchester a great place.
How would you describe the city's current infrastructure and business climate?
Look around things are good and getting even better.
What are the strengths and weaknesses of the Manchester School District? What is the top need for improvement or change?
Most students do fine. We must focus and provide support services so all kids can thrive. I will leave the details to the School Board.
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. The way it is set up now all the elected officials have a built-in excuse. The alderman blame the school board and the school board can blame the alderman. There needs to be a clear understanding of accountability.
What is the greatest strength of your ward and what needs improvement?
We have great neighborhoods filled with nice people. These neighborhoods need to be protected from public nuisances of all kinds especially absentee businessmen who want to exploit neighborhoods for profit.
Anything else you'd like to add?
I love this city but don’t spread the word it attracts more people.