Why I’m Running
Hello, Portsmouth! For over 12 years, I've dedicated myself to our city’s well-being, serving both as an advocate and as a candidate for city council. My journey has always been driven by a commitment to making Portsmouth a place where everyone can thrive.
Throughout these years, I've witnessed firsthand how rising housing costs have impacted our community. Families, including my own, have felt the strain of affordability as new developments have pushed prices beyond reach. I’ve consistently advocated for policies that ensure affordable housing remains a priority, so that everyone can call Portsmouth home.
Beyond affordability, I’ve stood firm in advocating for the character and integrity of our neighborhoods. I believe in responsible development that respects our community’s history and ensures that new growth doesn’t come at the expense of our residents.
As we look toward the future, I ask for your support on November 4th. Together, we can ensure that Portsmouth remains a place where neighborhoods come first, and where every resident has a voice.
Rick Becksted
Position on Issues
Answers to Seacoastonline questionnaireSeacoastonline Questionnaire
Q1. What is the biggest problem Portsmouth is facing, and how would you solve it?
Did not respond.
Q2. Portsmouth’s budget has reached nearly $150 million and its payroll has 260-plus people earning $100 000-plus. As a city councilor, what steps would you take, if any, to address the tax burden on residents?
Did not respond.
Q3. With affordability being such a challenge in Portsmouth, what would you do to make it more accessible to people with a wide range of incomes?
Did not respond.
Q4. The Portsmouth Housing Authority has projected rents for the apartments the agency is building on city-owned land at the former Sherburne School will range from $1,580 for a one-bedroom unit to nearly $2,200 for three bedrooms. Are those rates low enough for working people? If not, what can be done to lower them?
Did not respond.
Q5. Should the city commit to using more city-owned land to build truly affordable housing or has Portsmouth done enough?
Did not respond.
Q6. Should the city reconsider the scope of a potential police station and City Hall renovation and upgrade project with a projected $42 million cost?
Hello, Portsmouth! For over 12 years, I've dedicated myself to our city’s well-being, serving both as an advocate and as a candidate for City Council. My journey has always been driven by a commitment to making Portsmouth a place where everyone can thrive.
Throughout these years, I've witnessed firsthand how rising housing costs have impacted our community. Families, including my own, have felt the strain of affordability as new developments have pushed prices beyond reach. I’ve consistently advocated for policies that ensure affordable housing remains a priority, so that everyone can call Portsmouth home.
Q7. Should Portsmouth do something to encourage development at the McIntyre building site, where the owner says city zoning has made redevelopment difficult?
Did not respond.
Q8. The City Council has put forward ideas to address traffic flow and walkability in high-profile locations like State Street and Congress Street. What is your opinion on these efforts?
Did not respond.
Q9. Should the city begin looking for a site where it can build its third municipal parking garage? If so, what part of the city makes the most sense? If not, how can the city meet its increasing parking demand?
Did not respond.
Q10. What else would you like voters to know about you?
Did not respond.