When I first ran for office, it was because I saw potential in Margaret—and I believed I could help us reach it. Not by chasing growth, but by building structure and implementing processes that protect our neighborhoods, improve our daily lives, and plan for the future—not just the next meeting.

Margaret is a bedroom community, and that’s part of its charm. People live here because it feels like home. But even in a quiet town, our citizens deserve better services, more local opportunities, and leadership that’s not afraid to plan ahead.

Here’s my vision for Margaret—and the first priorities I’ll tackle as Mayor:

1️⃣ Build a Real Budget

It’s shocking, but true: our city has operated without a functional, transparent budget. That ends when I take office. We need to know where we are financially to know where we can go.

2️⃣ Create a 5-Year Comprehensive Plan

Planning isn’t a buzzword—it’s a necessity. Together, we’ll define what we want Margaret to look like five years from now. That includes growth planning, infrastructure priorities, and clear benchmarks to track our progress.

3️⃣ Organize City Operations

From pay scales and job descriptions to growth plans, SOPs, and an org chart—Margaret needs professional, predictable processes. It’s how we attract and keep good employees, deliver consistent services, and bring order to the city.

4️⃣ Launch a 10-Year Road Plan

Potholes can’t wait, but we also can’t ignore long-term needs. I’ll push both: boots-on-the-ground crews fixing what’s urgent now, and a transparent, data-informed road map for the decade ahead.

5️⃣ Plan for Right-Sized Commercial Growth

We’re not trying to become a commercial hub. But we do need essentials—like a grocery store, a hardware store, and more dining options. We’ll pursue the right development in the right places to support residents without losing our identity.

6️⃣ Create Community Space for Residents

A city is more than roads and budgets—it’s people. Margaret needs a dedicated space where residents can come together. Whether it’s for events, sports, clubs, or town gatherings, we’ll plan for and invest in shared spaces that build community pride and connection.

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Margaret doesn’t need more empty promises. It needs a mayor with a plan. I’m not running to guess or gamble with your tax dollars. I’m running to rebuild trust, structure, and strategy—so Margaret can thrive on purpose.

Let’s get to work.

— Matt Tortorice