Owen on Ward 3 Life: Open Space Open Space and green space are a major part of Northampton's appeal. I will explore and support pilot programs for better access to public space around the ward. Transportation We have great bike paths, a good bus system, and a need to be more pedestrian-friendly. Let's examine a community bicycle program, look into smarter transit, and repair and upgrade our sidewalks. Housing Northampton is a desirable place to live. I believe affordability and greater housing options are portant for keeping Northampton diverse. I want everyone to have a home. Civic Engagement Northampton's outreach and engagement with citizens needs to be improved and public venues should be more accessible. We must use new media, bring more voices into the process, and be more open when the city conducts its business. "I know that he will encour- age open and honest debates about all issues, will listen and weigh the concerns and interests of the people with an open mind, and will show shrewd judgment in his decision-making." Jesse M. Adams City Councilor At Large Owen on Our Economy: Arts Arts and entertainment bring tourism to Northampton. I want to encourage artists, art production, and increase public art. Local Agriculture Buying food locally builds a sustain- able community. I will work on ways to cultivate new farms. Small-Business The new economy is full of small- business owners. I will commit to help them thrive. Knowledge Corridor Brain-based businesses and a close affiliation with our col- leges can help create good jobs and clustered growth. I want to engage in public/ private partner- ship for economic growth. The City's Budget I support greater openness in the city budget. I strive for equitable taxation and adequate tation in the process. I support efforts that leverage state, federal, or private grants. "I have been impressed by Owen's commitment and tenacity in work- ing for the best interests of the ward .... he understands that Ward 3 is home to many of Northamp- ton's artists, and he is committed to both a social and economic climate that sustains and nourishes the arts." Madeline Weaver Blanchette Valley Street The longtime Democrat. Owen on Our Future: Environment We use an overlapping, convenient trash collection system. I believe public composting could be more convenient, I want to expand recycling, enforce our trash poli- cies, and work on commercial trash reduction. Energy We should look at more ways to reduce our negative impact on the environment. I support efforts to retrofit public buildings and private property using public loans. Education Northampton's commitment to edu- cation is part of its appeal. I support neighborhood schools, safe routes to them, and humane school start times. I want our schools to teach Internet and technological literacy. People We can take palpable steps to be a co mmunity that puts people first. We should make good-faith ef forts to register young voters and to explore a new election process. Even as a municipality, we can limit ments of corporate personhood and fight attacks on our civil liberties. "Owen quickly stepped into a leadership role on the ad hoc committee that formed to help raise money for the victims. Owen did an amazing job in helping represent his ward, or- ganize events ... and help ensure that there would be profession- al stewardship for the funds raised and that they would be distributed equitably." Michael Kusek (Arson victim's fund organizer) The most candidate. www.owenforward3.com