Six Priorities for a Stronger Ashburnham
Ashley's platform is built on a decade of community organizing, listening to residents, and working alongside local businesses. These six priorities reflect what she's heard — and what she's committed to delivering.
Public Engagement
Putting residents at the centre of every decision.
"Public engagement should never be an afterthought. It should be at the centre of how council makes better decisions for each ward."
Ashley's Commitments
Regular ward-level community meetings with real two-way dialogue
Proactive outreach to residents before major decisions are made
Clear, plain-language communication about council proceedings
Working toward the highest voter turnout in Ashburnham on record
Municipal Accessibility
Making local government easier to understand and participate in.
"Too many people find municipal processes confusing or inaccessible. I want to help make local government easier to understand, easier to participate in, and more connected to the people it serves."
Ashley's Commitments
Simplify how residents access city services and information
Improve transparency around planning and development decisions
Advocate for accessible meeting formats and times
Build bridges between residents and the processes that affect them
Affordability
Keeping Ashburnham livable for everyone.
"Affordability has to be part of every conversation about the future of our city. People should be able to live, work, build a business, raise a family, and age in the community they love."
Ashley's Commitments
Ensure affordability is considered in every budget and policy decision
Advocate for more attainable housing options across the ward
Support programs that help residents age in place
Push back on decisions that price people out of their own community
Sustainable Development
Planning responsibly for the future.
"We need smart, sustainable development that protects the environment while enhancing the social infrastructure."
Ashley's Commitments
Support development that fits the scale and character of Ashburnham
Prioritize green space, walkability, and active transportation
Ensure new development includes community benefit
Hold developers accountable to commitments made to residents
Local Business & Economy
A thriving local economy strengthens the whole community.
"After a decade working with local businesses and events, I understand what they need to thrive and how a strong local economy strengthens the whole community."
Ashley's Commitments
Advocate for policies that reduce barriers for small businesses
Support local events and initiatives that drive community economic activity
Connect businesses with city resources and programs
Champion a vibrant, diverse local economy in Ashburnham
Accountability
A representative who asks tough questions.
"Residents deserve a representative who is accountable, approachable, and willing to ask tough questions when the status quo is not serving the community."
Ashley's Commitments
Regular updates to constituents on council activity and decisions
Open-door approach — always accessible to residents
Willingness to challenge decisions that don't serve the ward
Transparent about positions, votes, and reasoning
"I'm running because I believe in this ward, I believe in the people who call it home, and I believe we can build a more informed, connected, and resilient community together."