Marlborough Patch Candidate Profile: Michael Baker For Ward 5 City Councilor

MARLBOROUGH, MA — The municipal election is heating up in Marlborough and there are plenty of races with candidates eager to serve in elected office.

Marlborough Patch asked candidates to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as Election Day draws near.

Michael Baker is running for the Marlborough Ward 5 City Councilor position.

Campaign website

www.mikebaker.net

Age

I am 52 years old

Family

I am married to my wife, Janice. I also have two children: Jacob, who is 23 and Sophia, who is 16.

Position sought

I am running for City Councilor of Ward 5.

Party affiliation

I am an independent voter.

Educational background

I graduated from Marlborough High School in 1990.

Are you originally from Marlborough?

I was raised right here in Ward 5 on Howland Street.

What is your occupation?

I am a Lead maintenance technician for Reliant Medical and also a part-time host at Picco here in Marlborough.

Have you previously or currently been elected to an office?

I have never been elected, but I did run for mayor two years ago.

Why are you running for the Ward 5 City Councilor position?

I have lived in Ward 5 for most of my life. It is a very important part of who I am. I care about this city and want to serve my community.

Please complete this statement: The single most pressing issue facing my constituents is ___, and this is what I intend to do about it.

Growth. The city is growing at a rapid pace. I think it is too much too soon. There are so many apartments already under construction. We need to stop any new apartments or condos until we can assess what is going to hit us. Do we have enough police, firemen, city workers or school space to support the incoming residents? Those are all valid questions I have heard from constituents.

What sets you apart from other candidates seeking this position?

Just bringing in a different point of view. I think the people need to be heard from and represented and not told what is best for them.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

Certainly, the roads need to be addressed. We need to continue to revitalize downtown by bringing in fresh businesses. Staffing levels for our great fire and police departments, and our DPW workers. We need to take care of our seniors. The residents at 240 Main Street need extra parking and there is a state lot that could be utilized for that. We need more housing for the people that help make this city amazing. With all the new residents, will we need more schools? We need to do these things while keeping property taxes down.

How does your experience prepare you for success in this position?

I have lived here most of my life. I have spoken and will continue to speak to the people. I know this city and will do my best to represent the people of Marlborough.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself?

I am one of you. I am a blue-collar guy who loves his family and works hard to support them. I am not a politician; I am only seeking to represent you and will look for your input. I will represent all of Ward 5, if I am lucky enough to win, whether you vote for me or not. I want to hear from you and will be accountable. I care about you as a person; you will never be a number to me. I will do whatever I can to help this community that I love so much. Thank you for your consideration!

Related: 'I Will Work For You': Marlborough Candidate Kicks Off Ward 2 City Council Campaign