Sandy Rogers

Political platform statement

I have been a proud resident of Manchester-by-the-Sea for 35 years—first as a long-term renter and then as a homeowner.  Initially drawn to Manchester by its beauty and character, the way the community comes together is what makes this special place a home.  This has inspired both me and my family to give back to the town in multiple ways.

Today, I am currently co-chair of the Manchester Sustainability Committee, working to reinforce good habits that preserve our natural resources and keep us healthy.  I have also served on the board of the Friends of Manchester Trees, and as a volunteer for the Manchester Essex Conservation Trust, and the Manchester 375th Celebration Committee.  Professionally, I am a consultant and industry research analyst, most recently covering smart building technologies and sustainable real estate operations.

I am deeply passionate about the environment and greatly enjoy outdoor activities including hiking our wonderful trails and photographing nature.  We are all so fortunate to live on Cape Ann and in a town that is walkable and safe.  I want to make sure Manchester evolves in ways that embrace and protect these unique assets.

Why I am looking to serve you as a member of the Planning Board:

Manchester-by-the-Sea is at a particularly significant juncture in its history, simultaneously confronted with a host of critical concerns.  We face an increasing number and growing intensity of climate-related threats, a need to ensure housing and services are accessible for all ages, and a keen desire to create and maintain a vibrant downtown and business-friendly atmosphere.

To address these and other challenges, it is essential that those on the Planning Board work closely with other government entities.  It must also work in ways that are more inclusive and transparent to our town’s citizens.  I would like to see that the Planning Board perform greater community outreach and awareness-building to bring in more voices and ideas while crafting zoning and weighing development decisions.  

Additionally, more diligence is often needed in gathering data and exploring options when drafting bylaws and making permitting decisions.  Details matter.  I have paid close attention to Planning Board activities for many years, and this is a key area where I can provide my skills.

It is important that we create a balance of protecting homeowner and landowner rights while at the same time considering both the current and future impact that changes may have on our neighbors and the town at large.  It is also time to look at revamping our town’s master plan, especially considering demographic trends and economic realities.  

There are opportunities for growth and refurbishments, yet these also must be carefully architected to blend seamlessly into the fabric of our precious town.

I look forward to creating a great future for Manchester, together.