City Councillor Jane Gonsalves Will Not Seek Re-election

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Jane-GonsalvesWard Five City Councillor Jane Gonsalves will not seek re-election after holding the position for close to 20 years. Councillor Gonsalves said it was a difficult decision but the right one for her and for her Ward.

“I love New Bedford, I love Ward Five and I love the job, but commuting to Boston for my full-time job, coupled with the ever increasing demands of being a City Councillor, simply makes it difficult to be highly efficient in both places at the same time,” said Gonsalves.

Gonsalves believes her outstanding service to her constituents is why she is the longest serving Ward Councillor in the City’s history. She said she believes that the Ward Five residents are some of the most politically active in the City and they pay close attention to local issues.

“Ward Five residents care about their community and their neighborhoods; they are very engaged in the government process and I could not have asked for a greater honor than serving them for so many years,” Gonsalves said.

Gonsalves was first elected in 1993 and has been challenged in every election since. She is one of very few females to ever serve as City Council President, and the only woman to serve as President twice. Ward Five voters have always returned her to the seat in spite of some well-known and well-financed opponents.

Gonsalves has been a powerful voice on the City Council over the years, especially when it comes to protecting the rights of women and fighting for historic preservation. Gonsalves is also very proud of her work as Finance Committee Chair, always taking a balanced fiscal approach to provide the best services to residents while holding the line on taxes.

“As a City Councillor, digging down deep into the budget and finances is work not always rewarded; but it is work that must be done week in and week out.”

I am very proud that I took on the tough work and not just the work that got great headlines,” she stated.

Gonsalves looks forward to spending more time with her family and friends but will always remain active in the political and government process.

“I feel very fortunate and I am thankful for this experience; to have been involved with so many important issues; to meet so many great people; to have so many loyal supporters; and to have made lifelong friends.”

About Michael Silvia

Served 20 years in the United States Air Force. Owner of New Bedford Guide.

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3 comments

  1. Congrats to Jane on a job well done! Your constituents will undoubtedly miss you. I wish Jane well in all her future endeavors. God Bless and Congratulations on being an outstanding public servant.

  2. Jane rocks! She has gone above and beyond for me and many that I know. Her honesty is rare and refreshing.

    Someone is going to have some big shoes to fill.

  3. So sad to see Jane go, always gained comfort in knowing that she was in the City Council doing her thing. She has had a significant impact on this city, a true leader. Aside from the city government level, she has served as a positive role model for myself, serving as a mentor way back in 1996. Wishing you the best Jane and I trust that your voice will still be heard 🙂

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