Worcester Candidates Clash on Police, Housing, and Council Issues

Overview of the Mayoral Debate in Worcester

With 19 days until the election, three candidates for Mayor of Worcester shared their visions for the city during a one-hour debate hosted by GBH’s Worcester reporter, Sam Turken. The candidates included current mayor Joseph Petty, Council Vice Chair and Councilor-at-Large Khrystian King, and real estate agent Owura-Kwaku Sarkodieh.

The debate was characterized by a respectful tone, with each candidate listening attentively to the others without interruptions. At one point, Petty apologized to Turken for going over time, and Turken allowed him to finish his statement. This level of decorum highlighted the candidates’ commitment to constructive dialogue.

Candidate Visions and Records

Joseph Petty, seeking an eighth term as mayor, emphasized his record of constructing new housing and schools, along with investments in public safety and parks. He stated, “I’ve been a leader for the last 14 years and I treated everybody fairly.”

Khrystian King, elected to the City Council in 2015, stressed the need for City Hall to be inclusive for all residents, not just those with connections. Drawing from his experience as a social worker and councilor, he mentioned his efforts to pass new protections following an ICE arrest on Eureka Street. King often challenged Petty’s leadership, particularly regarding how City Hall meetings were conducted.

Owura-Kwaku Sarkodieh, who has never held public office, spoke about the values of care, compassion, and community in Worcester. He declared that the city needed new leadership, stating, “I believe we need a new leader and that time is now.”

Police Oversight and Community Trust

The debate began with questions about supporting a police civilian oversight board. A report from the Worcester Regional Research Bureau called for such a board, following a U.S. Department of Justice report that criticized the Worcester Police Department for excessive force and disproportionate impacts on Black and Hispanic communities.

Petty expressed hesitation, stating he would review the WRRB’s study before making a decision. He also raised concerns about potentially undermining Police Chief Paul Saucier. In contrast, King and Sarkodieh both supported the board, with Sarkodieh advocating for independent investigations into police use of force.

King emphasized the importance of addressing the DOJ report to improve public trust, while Sarkodieh called for transparency in all arrests.

Housing and Homelessness Challenges

The candidates discussed the pressing issue of housing shortages in Worcester. According to the city’s housing production plan, more than 12,000 units will be needed over the next eight years. A market demand analysis revealed a shortage of housing for both high and low-income residents.

King supported rent control and a lower residential tax rate, while Sarkodieh proposed mixed-income housing and repurposing vacant apartments for affordable housing. Petty introduced a proposal with District 2 Councilor Candy Mero-Carlson offering tax breaks to landlords who keep rents low.

When asked about homelessness, Petty suggested more housing as a solution and proposed collaboration with other Central Massachusetts towns. Sarkodieh advocated for temporary housing with mandatory treatment, while King called for increased social services and state funding.

City Council Division and Leadership

The final topic addressed division among city councilors. The mayor oversees the council and runs its meetings. Recent tensions included accusations of slurs and threats of violence against council members.

Sarkodieh, who has no prior council experience, emphasized the importance of unity and reaching across the aisle. King condemned threats against council members and criticized Petty’s leadership, citing the incident between Nguyen and Mero-Carlson. Petty acknowledged past challenges but claimed improvements in communication and collaboration.

Conclusion

As the election approaches, the candidates have presented their plans for Worcester, focusing on critical issues such as police oversight, housing, and city council unity. Their debates reflect the diverse perspectives and priorities shaping the future of the city.