Press Release

Leslie Burg to Run for Ward 3 Alderman-at-Large

June 29, 2005 IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Newton, MA -- Leslie A. Burg of West Newton announced on June 29, that she is a candidate for Alderman-at-Large from Ward 3. A resident of Newton since 1970, Dr. Burg is Emerita Professor at Northeastern University, where she was on the faculty for 33 years. She was Director of Training for United South End Settlements for over six years and has long been involved in Boston’s urban community.

This is Leslie Burg’s first campaign for elective office. She has been an active volunteer in campaigns for other candidates, including Mel King and Tom Atkins, and most recently, Tim Schofield in Boston, and Jesse Gordon in Cambridge.

“The city of Newton is in good shape, compared to many other cities in the Commonwealth, but we have concerns here that need to be addressed. Issues of transportation, the environment, and development require attention and should be addressed together,” stated Dr. Burg. “One of my priorities is to make living in Newton more affordable, to foster the diversity that creates a vibrant community. I believe it is important to promote development that makes living in Newton accessible to young families of various income levels. In addition, we should ensure that our older citizens are able to remain in their homes or in the city when they so desire.”

Mel King, former State Representative and current Director of the South End Technology Center at Tent City, stated, “Leslie will be a superb alderman. I have watched her make people think. She brings critique and analysis to decisions that inevitably lead to wise and therefore effective solutions.”

Martina Jackson, Chair of the Newton Democratic City Committee, said, “Newton is fortunate in having Leslie Burg, a long-time Newton resident and community activist, join the Ward 3 at-large aldermanic race. Leslie will join Ted Hess-Mahan in bringing thoughtful, principled representation to Newton’s Board of Aldermen. Her experience in community planning and negotiation will be invaluable as Newton continues to wrestle with housing needs, public transportation, and economic development.”

Information about Leslie Burg and her campaign may be found at www.leslieburg.org.

Contact

Leslie Burg
617-969-0361
leslie@leslieburg.org

Tim Snyder, Campaign Chair
617-964-3629
timsnyder25@comcast.net