“The paramount focus of the city council must be ensuring the safety and welfare of every resident. This necessitates substantial improvements in our city’s infrastructure, including enhanced sidewalks, well marked-crosswalks, properly maintained roads.”
WORCESTER – The 2023 Worcester municipal election day is drawing near, and the Worcester Guardian reached out to candidates in contested races. Asking each a set of questions, the Guardian will publish these responses up until voting day (Nov. 7).
Feanna Jattan-Singh is running for District 3 city councilor.
Jattan-Singh was born in Fayetteville, NC, in 1982, to parents who immigrated from Trinidad and Tobago, both of whom served in the US Army. Her upbringing involved active participation in the family business: J’s Minimart. After graduating from Red Springs High School, class of 2000, she attended Johnson & Wales University where she earned an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration in 2002 and a Bachelor’s Degree in International Business in 2003, while also venturing into online entrepreneurship.
She married and relocated to Waltham, MA, in 2004, when she worked for NAEP as an administrator at the Boston Public Schools. At this time, a friend encouraged her to move to Worcester, which she did, settling in the city in 2010. She has four children.
In 2017, Jattan-Singh got her real estate license and joined the Realtors Association of Central Mass., of which she was a member until 2021, joining the North Shore Realtors Association in September of this year. She still actively contributes to the Worcester community through her involvement with the Kiwanis Club and Liberty Church.
The following are Jattan-Singhl’s responses to the Guardian’s questionnaire:
What are or should be the city councilors top priorities?
The paramount focus of the city council must be ensuring the safety and welfare of every resident. This necessitates substantial improvements in our city’s infrastructure, including enhanced sidewalks, well marked-crosswalks, properly maintained roads. Additionally, urgent attention should be directed towards providing housing to the homeless population.
We must strive for universal accessibility, accommodating individuals using wheelchairs, bikes, and various modes of transportation. Furthermore, vital mental health services should be readily available at public spaces like the library and the police stations.
What is the most negative impression (whether real or imagined) of Worcester and how do you think this can be remedied?
Worcester’s reputation suffers due to perceived leadership gaps, and the prevalence of unpaved, unclean roads. Numerous homeowners are discouraged from settling here due to deplorable road conditions. A straightforward solution presents itself; the city must take responsibility for paving all roads, not just public ones.
Additionally, eliminating charges for trash bags and bulky items disposal would alleviate financial burdens on residents. Furthermore, it is crucial for the city to invest in sidewalks along routes where children have to walk to schools, and bus stops, ensuring their safety and promoting a more inviting urban environment.
Do you think the city is responding appropriately to immigration to Worcester?
As a gateway city, we have the potential to offer a warm welcome to refugees, yet we are currently falling short of meeting their essential needs. Many finding themselves residing in hotels for prolonged periods, unable to work due to their immigration status. It is imperative that we establish comprehensive programs to help them in transitioning smoothly, providing streamlined access to ESL classes and educational opportunities at QCC. By equipping them with the skills, we empower refugees to learn, work, and contribute meaningfully to our community.
Now that we are several seasons in, what are your thoughts on the city’s investment in Polar Park?
I envision collaborative partnership among businesses, schools, nonprofits, and apprenticeships, fostering inclusivity and opportunities for all stakeholders. Utilizing Polar Park as a venue for monthly job fairs and community events, akin to cultural events held behind city hall this summer, offers promising prospects. While the park represents a valuable asset, it is essential that Worcester ensures free, fair access to its amenities, especially for tax payers who contributed to its construction.
We must prioritize essential infrastructure such as sidewalks for the safety of our children without compromising on other civic engagements. The presence of the ballpark, while advantageous also brings challenges such as gentrification, escalating property values, and rising rents that displace local residents.
To address these concerns, it is crucial that the ballpark commission is representative of our diverse community, enabling the organization of inclusive and engaging events. Currently lacking a central community hub, our city could greatly benefit from such initiatives, enhancing the overall well being of our residents.
What is the best place for breakfast or lunch in the city?
I have a few spots in Worcester for Breakfast. One of them is Annie’s Clark Brunch, where I recently gathered with friends to celebrate my good friend Michael Madden’s birthday a few days ago. When it comes to lunch, I enjoy visiting the Worcester Public Market. The market offers a diverse array of cuisines from around the world. I particularly love the Jamaican dishes from OneLove Cafe, as well as the Indian, and the Nepali food, they remind me of my cultural
roots.
What was the last concert you attended?
The Joy of Music Program this summer, when my daughter showcased her talent as a cellist in the Sinfonietta ensemble. Throughout the year, this program hosts public concerts, including the Spring Gala held at the prestigious Mechanics hall.
Contact Charlene Arsenault at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org
