From The Desk of Executive Councilor John A. Stephen
District 4
Dear Constituents,
May was a productive month engaging with District 4 communities to advance highway safety, state contract oversight, and support for youth and grieving families.
On May 2, the Governor’s Highway Safety Task Force met to draft over 100 recommendations to reduce road fatalities. Proposals target high-speed driving, license revocation for dangerous acts, and crash data-driven enforcement, plus better training and education. The Task Force is currently preparing its report for the Governor. Share feedback at [email protected].
Council work focused on accountability. We rejected a Department of Corrections contract tied to a company owned by someone with a civil judgment for alleged sexual offenses and opposed a $2.1 million TASER contract delivered without approval. These issues, reported by New Hampshire Public Radio and Valley News, led to the Commissioner’s resignation on May 19.
Visiting Friends of Aine, Christine Phillips shared their mission to support grieving children with peer counseling, inspired by their daughter’s loss. Leaders backed their contract to continue to expand statewide with their services in our schools and communities. Contact Friends of Aine for support.
On May 15, the 33rd annual Fallen Officers Ceremony in Concord honored law enforcement heroes. The NH Law Enforcement Officers’ Memorial Association hosts this event each year and I have attended many. Support them at NHLEOMA.
Touring Manchester’s Boys and Girls Club with CEO Diane Fitzpatrick showcased 160 youth programs fostering belonging. Leaders endorsed their work. Reach out at Boys & Girls Club of Manchester.
HCA Healthcare’s event on May 20 outlined Catholic Medical Center’s acquisition, detailing upgrades and community investment. Talks with Attorney General Formella addressed oversight. I am planning a June meeting with HCA CEO John Skeffington to further discuss how our community will benefit through this acquisition.
Meeting Victory Women of Vision founder Mary Georges and her community highlighted aid for immigrant domestic violence victims through youth programs. Learn more at Victory Women of Vision.
Helped facilitate a meeting on May 25 with Department of Administrative Services Commissioner Charlie Arlinghaus and Association of Builders and Contractors Executive Director Josh Reap, including state contractors, to discuss streamlining Public Works bids for cost-effective projects.
Engaging Riverwoods residents in Exeter, a wonderful retirement community, sparked discussion on the Governor and Council’s role, reinforcing transparent governance.
Connecting with Manchester Police Athletic League’s Jayna Stevens and Officer David Lisboa highlighted free youth programs like boxing and a diversion program to reduce recidivism. Contact MPAL.
An op-ed on the Public Deposit Investment Pool (PDIP) outlined reforms to invest taxpayer funds in local banks, supporting Keene startups, Littleton renovations, and Manchester businesses. A new law awaits Governor Ayotte’s signature. Read it at NH Journal.
These efforts reflect a commitment to safety, oversight, and community support for Granite Staters. Read more about May’s work here.
Live Free or Die,
