Mayor Jim Donchess Introduced the speaker. Joyce Craig is a Manchester, NH native who is currently running for governor of New Hampshire. Her speech to the Nashua Rotary Club covered a host of topics, including:
Running to strengthen our local communities
Previously was the chief executive of the city of Manchester. Helped with organizing and planning of the $400 million dollar budget for the city.
Grew up in Manchester. Focused on creating jobs and providing for hard working families in New Hampshire. Manchester now has one of the hottest job markets in the state.
Addressed climate change and clean energy by developing solar arrays.
Has a main focus on improving public education by ensuring public tax dollars go to public schools.
Focus on affordable housing. Projected that the state will need 60,000 housing units by 2030.
Focus on homeless initiatives. Opened a shelter in Manchester and an engagement center for non-profits to help with homelessness. Has led to less homeless encampments and fewer overdose deaths.
Partnered with Manchester PD to reduce violent crime by 40%. Gun violence reduction plan. Made Manchester safer.
Believes it is critical for the next governor of New Hampshire to understand what is happening at the local level.
Questions from the club pertained to unemployment opportunities, public education, Manchester Airport and the Logan Express bus, homeless/housing services, and returning New Hampshire to the first in the nation primary,