My name is Sam Jackson.
I am running for a City Council at-large seat in the upcoming election on Nov. 4. I am also the current chair of the City of Keene's Bicycle/Pedestrian Pathways Advisory Committee.
About four years ago, I discovered how much fun it is to travel by bicycle. I enjoy the wind on my face, my speed is determined by my own power, and I feel confident that my treats are earned. I feel healthier. My body adapts to weather patterns better than it ever did before.
It slows me down, which is good. I notice things I never would have seen before, like that goose in window or the skeletons enjoying an October firepit. They're little things, but they're parts of my community. They make me smile, even when things are difficult.
My wife and I are lucky: Keene meets the majority of our needs. So we happily sold the car.
But one method of travel cannot satisfy every need. A bicycle alone cannot safely carry me to my family in Sullivan or Richmond. When we suffer insomnia or overwork, I still have to get on the bicycle to get to my job as a baker.
I wish to take the city bus, but my schedule conflicts. I would use the service on the weekend, but Keene transit sleeps. Ditching the car becomes difficult or seemingly impossible without transit, even with perfect bicycle infrastructure. Supporting different modes of transit offers opportunity and choice.
Imagine napping on the way home from work, or reading a book, catching up with family, or getting your daily exercise. We'd ultimately save time, energy and fuel.
But we can't do this if homes remain unaffordable. A certain density is required to provide and maintain this level of transit services, which is how inviting more young individuals and families into Keene can reduce costs for everyone. We can take care of our greenspaces to strengthen city character and our climate while fostering stronger community.
These issues are interlocked and connected. They push and pull on each other, bolstering or consuming from each other in complex ways. But they also cannot be disconnected from each other. And we must work to address them together.
I am excited to work on these issues with all of you. Please vote for me for city councilor at large on Nov. 4.