|
In his inaugural address for a second term, Mayor James J.
Fiorentini called for widespread and sweeping changes in
Haverhill’s zoning laws to achieve what he called the rebirth of
Haverhill. Fiorentini called for changes downtown to allow for
what he called the “Urban Renaissance Zone” in Haverhill’s
downtown. Fiorentini said it was time to “remove the red tape of
unnecessary regulatory barriers and role out the red carpet for
new business and new hope for downtown.”
In a positive address, Fiorentini outlined the accomplishments
of the past two years, but acknowledged the serious problems that
still face the city because of the Hale debt. “The greatest
challenges lay ahead,” Fiorentini told the audience.
Fiorentini said that the best way to meet those challenges was to
grow and to funnel that growth downtown and into old factory
buildings. “Our zoning laws should encourage growth where it is
needed, downtown, and encourage the preservation of open space
where that is needed, in our neighborhoods,” said Fiorentini.
Fiorentini also called for better public education, and the
extension of the mandatory summer school program, which the city
started last year. “It is time to say to our 6th, 7th and 8th
grade students, if you do not pass, we will not give you a free
pass to the next grade” Fiorentini said. |
