Why I’m Running
Hello Portsmouth, my name is Michelle Flynn and I would be honored if you would consider voting for me in November to serve on the Portsmouth City Council.
I am running for City Council because Portsmouth is my home—it’s where I was raised, where I raised my children, and where I’ve built a life. But I worry that families like mine may not have that same opportunity today. It’s likely my husband and I couldn’t afford to buy in our neighborhood now.
I’ve watched Portsmouth evolve over the years, and while I’m proud of our growth, I’m deeply aware of the pressures facing families, workers, and longtime residents. I believe in thoughtful leadership—leadership that listens first and acts with purpose. I want to lend my voice to help shape policies that protect affordability, promote sustainable development, and ensure residents—not just developers or tourists—remain at the heart of every decision. Over the past 30 years, I’ve held roles that demanded attentive listening, collaborative problem-solving, and a steady hand and I can bring those qualities to Portsmouth City Council. With my kids now in college, I have the time and the commitment to give back to the city that has given so much to me.
As projects and initiatives are proposed, we need to ask: What problem are we trying to solve—and how will this impact residents?
What I’ll Work Toward:
- Promote housing policies that preserve economic diversity
- Ensure infrastructure keeps pace with growth
- Advocate for a hotel occupancy fee to support city services
- Support the new police station as a vital investment in public safety
- Push for climate resilience planning, especially in flood-prone areas
- Strengthen partnerships with state and regional leaders on shared challenges
Despite the challenges, Portsmouth remains such a wonderful place to live. I feel incredibly lucky to have grown up here and raised my kids here. Many of these issues have been decades in the making, and I respect the work of current and past councils. I’ll bring a grounded, practical voice to the table—and I’m ready to serve.
I want Portsmouth to be a place where individuals and families of all backgrounds can thrive—and where residents know they’re at the heart of every decision that is made.