Portsmouth’s municipal election is Tuesday, Nov. 2. Below, City Council candidate Greg Mahanna responds to PortsmouthNH.com’s candidate questionnaire.
Age: 56
Occupation: Corporate Pilot, Rental Property owner, General Contractor
Civic experience: No prior civic experience
Years living in Portsmouth: 23
1) Do you think the city should impose any new measures or mandates related to the COVID-19 pandemic at this time?
I think at this time, Portsmouth has done a good job. I don’t believe any new measures are warranted at this time. This changes quickly of course.
2) Do you think the Prescott Park Master Plan should be updated in any way? Specifically, do you think the stage should be temporary or permanent? Covered or uncovered?
I think the Prescott Park Master Plan, completed in early 2017 is a good one. There are significant parts, still unfinished. I favor a seasonal temporary stage that is covered.
3) How do you feel about the current pace of development in Portsmouth?
I don’t necessarily have an issue with the pace of development. I would like to see the City being diligent on buildings strictly adhering to approved plans. I would also like to see the workforce housing component of the Conditional Use Permits used more often.
4) What, if anything, do you think should be done to increase access to affordable housing?
The City should first, carefully inventory the City owned property as a path to affordable housing. Portsmouth Housing Authority, or possibly a new organization should be tasked with engaging with the private sector to look at methods that have already been used elsewhere to begin to address this problem.
5) What changes, if any, should be made to the city’s bike lanes?
I prefer the bike lanes at the curb as they are now.
6) Regarding the McIntyre building, what do you feel is the best path forward to avoid litigation and get the project done?
I believe that Portsmouth is entitled to considerably more revenue from the site.
7) What additional measures do you think the city should take to slow climate change and prepare for its impacts?
I could see looking at City property efficiency and emissions. I would also like to look at solar installations on city owned property that cannot be otherwise used. Many towns are placing solar at landfills and water treatment plant properties.
8) Do you support the idea of seasonal road closures and/or barriers to accommodate outdoor dining at restaurants — even after the pandemic has (hopefully) subsided?
I am a supporter of the outdoor dining as it has been used so far. Forcing some of the traffic to the perimeter of town makes Portsmouth more walkable and raises retail income.
9) What do you think the council can do to cultivate an environment of respect and collaboration and minimize hostility in local government?
I don’t believe that personal agendas should be in play on either side. We need to work together for the good of Portsmouth.
10) Aside from the issues already raised in this questionnaire, please outline ONE other priority you would address as a city councilor over the next two years.
See question #9.
BONUS: What are you going to be for Halloween?
(left blank)
To see other candidates’ responses, click here.