“We have one of the most respected police departments in the state, and our teachers and firefighters are among the top in Massachusetts”
Brockton, May 9, 2025 – InfoHaïti.net – During a fundraising event held Friday evening at Tamboo Restaurant, City Councilor and mayoral candidate Moises Rodrigues presented his platform to residents and stakeholders. The event drew members of the community, nonprofit leaders, and several elected officials, including State Representatives Michelle DuBois (10th Plymouth District) and Rita Mendes (11th Plymouth District), City Councilor David Texeira, and School Committee member Tim Sullivan (Ward 7).
In his remarks, Rodrigues focused on key policy areas including public engagement, fiscal management, and urban infrastructure. He framed his candidacy as a collaborative effort aimed at strengthening municipal operations and improving quality of life across Brockton.
Personal Background
A longtime Brockton resident, Rodrigues immigrated from Cape Verde in the late 1970s. He graduated from Brockton High School in a class of 1,200 students, pursued higher education, served in the military, and has since remained active in civic and community initiatives.
“I went straight to Brockton High, attended college, married here, raised my children in this city, and have always worked to give back—without seeking anything in return,” he said.
Emphasis on Civic Responsibility
Rodrigues called for broad community participation to address the city’s fiscal and operational challenges.
“Brockton is dealing with numerous issues, and we anticipate further difficulties ahead. Our budget is limited. We must approach the situation realistically.”
He acknowledged that financial constraints limit the city’s capacity to undertake new initiatives, stressing that prioritization of core services is essential.
“We may not be able to expand spending, but we still have a duty to meet the community’s most pressing needs.”
Addressing Property Neglect and Urban Maintenance
Rodrigues highlighted absentee property ownership as a barrier to neighborhood stability, pointing to investors from outside Massachusetts who fail to maintain their holdings.
“There are landlords from out of state who collect rent but do not invest in the maintenance of their properties. This practice undermines local development and must be addressed.”
He identified the maintenance and overall condition of public spaces as a central issue in his campaign, proposing stricter enforcement measures and, if necessary, direct intervention by the city.
“The city must ensure that public spaces and private properties are maintained. If property owners fail to meet their obligations, the city will intervene. Brockton’s physical condition cannot continue to deteriorate.”
Downtown Revitalization
Rodrigues outlined a plan to redevelop a section of Main Street into a two-lane boulevard, citing historical precedent and existing streetcar infrastructure from the 1930s.
“This is a short corridor—roughly a quarter mile—that could be reconfigured through political commitment and strategic partnerships. The goal is to revitalize the downtown area and improve traffic flow.”
He added that a stronger city center could help Brockton position itself as more than a secondary housing option.
“We should not simply be a destination for those priced out of Boston. People should choose to live in Brockton for its infrastructure, services, and quality of life.”
Public Education and Long-Term Development
Public education, Rodrigues noted, remains a critical foundation for the city’s future. He cited the enrollment of over 17,000 students in Brockton Public Schools and the ripple effect on families and neighborhoods.
“As our schools go, so goes the city. When schools function well, they have a stabilizing effect across the community.”
He called for shared responsibility in improving education outcomes.
“This is not just the superintendent’s responsibility. Schools must be equipped to fulfill their mission. When students succeed, they remain engaged and pursue further education or vocational paths.”
Municipal Workforce and Local Residency
Rodrigues also emphasized the value of Brockton’s municipal workforce, noting the strong reputation of local police officers, firefighters, and educators.
“We have one of the most respected police departments in the state, and our teachers and firefighters are among the top in Massachusetts. They deserve not only fair compensation but also the conditions that encourage them to live in the city where they serve.”
Encouraging public employees to become residents, he argued, would deepen their connection to the community and enhance accountability.
Diversity and Inclusion
Rodrigues acknowledged the demographic shifts shaping Brockton’s identity, with increasing representation from immigrant communities, including Haitian, Cape Verdean, Latino, and Asian populations.
“Brockton today reflects a wide range of cultural backgrounds. Many families have made this city their home. The city must continue to adopt inclusive policies that reflect and support this diversity.”
He linked inclusion to civic strength, noting that access and openness are critical to long-term development.
“An inclusive city is a stronger city. Our policies should reflect that reality.”
Collective Governance
As he wrapped up his speech, Rodrigues underscored the collective nature of his campaign and governing vision.
“This is not just about electing me. It’s about building a team effort. If I am elected, this will be our administration—not mine alone.”
He encouraged residents to stay engaged throughout the campaign and beyond.
“I will count on your ideas, your feedback, and your continued involvement. Help hold me accountable, and together we can build a better Brockton.”
