Candidate Profile: Kevin A. Jourdain
Kevin A. Jourdain is one of nine candidates running for six at-large city councilor positions in Holyoke. With a career spanning nearly 30 years on the City Council, he brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to public service. Jourdain has served as the president of the council for six years and is known for his dedication to the community where he grew up and raised his family.
As an attorney and finance professional, Jourdain holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and economics, a master’s degree in business administration, and a juris doctor degree. His background equips him with the knowledge necessary to tackle complex municipal issues and advocate for responsible governance.
Jourdain emphasizes the need for fiscal responsibility and transparency in city operations. He criticizes the current leadership for mismanagement and calls for a qualified treasurer who reflects the will of the voters. He also supports the commonwealth opening its books and completing reconciliations, which he sees as essential steps toward restoring financial stability in Holyoke.
Addressing Key Issues
Question 1: What is the biggest problem in the city, and how would you address it?
Jourdain identifies fiscal mismanagement by the mayor and the unqualified treasurer as the primary issue facing Holyoke. He argues that the public voted for a qualified treasurer almost a year ago, yet the mayor and his allies continue to block this decision. Jourdain is pushing for a real treasurer who can bring accountability and transparency to the city's finances. He also advocates for the state to complete its financial reconciliations, which he believes are critical for moving forward.
Question 2: How do you balance keeping taxes low while providing needed services and making advancements?
Jourdain highlights the excessive spending and inefficiency under the current administration, which has led to a 19% tax increase over the last four years—more than the city saw in the previous 10 years. He stresses the need to cut unnecessary expenses and hold the mayor and his supporters accountable. Additionally, he calls for increased state aid to prevent overtaxing residents, especially since Boston holds billions in reserves while Holyoke struggles to meet its needs.
Question 3: How should the city address the housing crisis?
Jourdain suggests that Holyoke must work more effectively with developers to build new housing on vacant lots and underutilized properties. He also urges the commonwealth to invest in infrastructure funding for cities like Holyoke, which lack the tax base to attract development. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining an affordable tax rate to allow residents to reinvest in their homes and improve the quality of life in the city.
Question 4: What types of development would you like to attract to the city, and how would you do it?
Jourdain criticizes the mayor’s approach to development, particularly the plan to tear down Elmwood Forest for a sports complex. He believes the project should be relocated to the old Kmart Plaza or downtown, where it would be more beneficial. He supports attracting manufacturing and quality jobs to the city and credits the hiring of a new economic development director with a comprehensive strategy as key to future success.
Jourdain’s campaign focuses on accountability, fiscal responsibility, and long-term planning to ensure Holyoke remains a thriving and affordable place to live. His experience and vision make him a strong contender in the upcoming election.
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