Portsmouth Deserves Better Representation

Twelve years ago, I became deeply engaged in following how our city government operates. Over that time, I’ve attended meetings, listened to residents, and tried to stay informed about the issues that shape Portsmouth’s future. And in all those years, I’ve never seen our city less represented than it is right now.

It often feels like today’s City Council is more focused on popularity and personal interests than on representing the people who live and work here. Too often, when certain members don’t get the outcome they want, they simply try again — from a different angle, at a different time, or in a different way.

A perfect example is the ongoing discussion about turning State Street into a two-way road. Two years ago, the Council hired a consultant to study the idea. That study cost roughly $40,000 and didn’t achieve the stated goals. Yet just a few weeks ago, the Council voted once again to spend another $50,000 on the same study — even using the same consultant.

That’s nearly $90,000 spent on the same concept in just two years — without any real demand from the public. I’ve never once heard residents ask for such a study, and I still don’t understand the reasoning behind it. What I do know is that this kind of spending is irresponsible and doesn’t reflect the priorities of the people of Portsmouth.

Our citizens deserve better. You deserve better.

That’s why I’m once again putting my hat in the ring. If elected, I’ll work to bring accountability, transparency, and true representation back to City Hall. I care deeply about this community and the people who call Portsmouth home — and I believe that together, we can do better.

— Rick Becksted