Vote Rick Becksted
It's been nearly ten years now that I have been involved with the City of Portsmouth government and its local politics. Served my first term as best I could, representing the residents as a city councilor. I tried to bring a different perspective to the table that was missing from previous City Councils. Tried to help produce a respectable budget without creating a sizable tax burden on the residents. Protect both the history and essential character of neighborhoods without jeopardizing the quality of life. Keep our historic town vibrant without overdeveloping and keeping its small town feel we all know and love.
During my second term as mayor was a task no other mayor had ever experienced. The Pandemic seem to drive and control almost every aspect of everyday life. I never let it change what I believed my job was - Represent the residents, deliver a responsible budget, protect the essential character of the city and its neighborhoods without affecting their quality of life, keep us moving in a positive direction and keep us safe.
Looking back on those years with thousands of hours and hundreds of meetings attended, as a concerned resident or as an elective official, I wouldn’t change one thing. I believe the same thing today as I did so many years ago. Portsmouth has and will continue to change, but those changes should not alter its essential character and the quality of life for so many. The significant spending over the last two years without any oversight will lead to higher property taxes & higher rents, making it unaffordable for our residents.
The number one job of a city councilor is the budget. The budget controls everything and everyone. Anyone that disagrees with that has no business running for office. Once again on November 7, I respectfully ask for your vote.
Rick Becksted
