The 'Urban Mechanic' Is Inaugurated In Somerville

SOMERVILLE, MA — Jake Wilson was inaugurated as Someville’s 37th mayor this past weekend, and will now officially take on the task of doing what he believes is in the best interest of the city.

Wilson announced his candidacy in 2024 one year ago intending to bring “accessible, collaborative, and decisive leadership” to the position. Born in Minnesota, Wilson spent the majority of his childhood in rural Iowa. He first came to the Boston area in 1999 when he moved to Brighton. In 2004, he moved to the Winter Hill area with his wife, Catherine where he has resided ever since. The two-term city councilor goes directly from his role there to that of mayor.

“I didn’t plan on a career change. I loved my role as city councilor, but I saw a greater need,” Wilson told Patch.

Wilson said his inspiration to become a local politician started through his regular experiences as a Somerville resident. He realized what he felt could be improved for the community through his own experiences.

“It started on sidewalks and porches, not in politics. As I stood in school pickup lines, coached, and participated in local events, I saw how small fixes and clear communication could change my neighbors' daily lives,” Wilson told Patch. “That’s the spirit behind my ‘urban mechanic’ approach: pay attention, fix what’s broken, keep improving the system.”

Wilson’s urban mechanic philosophy influences his immediate goals in his new position. He aims to instantly change the mayor's office’s basic services by improving things such as communication and transparency.

“We need to raise the floor on response times, communications, and coordination so residents see improvements in weeks, not years,” Wilson said. “We need to publish the goals and show the work. That means predictable timelines that can be tracked, short, easy-to-understand briefs on big projects, and routine scorecards for 311, permitting, and capital work.”

Another priority Wilson and his administration plan on addressing early on is that of housing. He named allowing a more diverse group of housing types and strengthening tenant protections.
Wilson described Somerville residents as smart and engaged in the ongoing politics of the city, and that he has been humbled and energized by the support he has received thus far.

“People want measurable progress on housing, safety, schools, and the everyday basics, and they’re showing up to help. Our transition committee and the input we have received are clear examples of how engaged Somerville residents are,” Wilson told Patch. “They care about their neighbors and community and want to help. The message I hear most is, ‘Tell us the plan, keep us informed, and stick to it.’ That’s exactly how I intend to govern.”

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