Bio
My name is Peter Whelan, and I am honored to be a candidate for Portsmouth City Council.
Since 1991, my wife Karen and I have resided on Gates Street in a historic house, where we
raised our son Peter and share our lives with our black lab, Angus. After more than 34 years
in Portsmouth, I am deeply committed to the city and its future.
Professional Experience
My career began after college with a corporate position at Norton Simon / Hunt-Wesson
Foods in New York City as an Area Manager. I later worked for Exxon Corporation in the
marine tanker division with Butterworth Systems, focusing on sales and marketing
internationally. My next step was with PepsiCo/Frito-Lay, overseeing business operations
across New York and New England and managing hundreds of employees. My professional
background also includes sales, marketing, and labor union negotiations and I eventually
moved into corporate turnarounds in the high-tech industry before retiring.
Currently, I own Shoals Fly Fishing and Light Tackle, a charter fishing business based here in
Portsmouth. I am a licensed Coast Guard Captain and Registered Maine Guide. I am also a
gubernatorial appointee representing New Hampshire on the New England Fisheries
Management Council—a federal fisheries organization. I serve on the New Hampshire
Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee, vice-chair of the Atlantic States Striped Bass Advisory
Board, and I am currently a board member and former president of the Coastal
Conservation Association of New Hampshire. I also serve on the board of the American
Saltwater Guides Association . As a former member of the Portsmouth City Council, I chaired
the Parking, Traffic, and Safety Committee and served on the Portsmouth Planning Board.
My involvement with fisheries management and conservation has taught me the
importance of stewardship and long-term planning, principles I will apply to civic decision-
making as well. I believe that balanced policies and inclusive discussions strengthen our city
and safeguard its unique character for future generations. It is this perspective, shaped by
both professional experience and personal investment in Portsmouth, that drives my desire
to serve in Portsmouth.
My experience in resource management has helped build partnerships focused on
sustainability and public interest. I will work to support thoughtful development, small
businesses, and environmental initiatives, with the goal of keeping Portsmouth vibrant and
inclusive. This practical, stewardship-driven perspective informs my vision for the city’s
future.
As a candidate, I bring not only a record of leadership and collaboration but also a
willingness to challenge the status quo and engage with tough issues. I understand that true
progress means listening to a diverse range of voices, weighing options carefully, and
making choices that reflect both the values and needs of our community.
Why I’m Running
Reason for Running
Over the past three decades, I have witnessed significant changes that have shaped
Portsmouth’s unique character. Unfortunately, many recent city decisions have favored
special interests over the voices of residents. Transparency has diminished, with more than
30 non-public council meetings in the past four years, a $30 million increase in the city
budget, and the addition of 33 new positions without thorough oversight. Such trends risk
Portsmouth’s affordability and place extra pressures on renters, homeowners, and those on
fixed incomes. This must be addressed as it is an unsustainable path for our Portsmouth
residents.
My Commitment
I am running to bring balance, accountability, and genuine representation for residents back
to Portsmouth’s government. My philosophy is grounded in practical solutions, responsible
budgeting, and thoughtful growth that honors our city’s heritage. I am committed to
keeping Portsmouth accessible for seniors, young families, and everyone who calls it home.
Transparency and responsible financial management are essential so that every decision
and dollar can be accounted for.
Portsmouth deserves a city government that puts residents first, demands accountability,
and makes decisions in the open. I am deeply concerned by the direction in which our city
has moved—where critical choices affecting our future are made outside the public eye and
without robust debate. I am committed to reversing this trend. My promise is to advocate
tirelessly for fiscal responsibility, transparency, and genuine community engagement in
every aspect of city governance.
We need leaders who are not afraid to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and prioritize
the long-term well-being of Portsmouth above short-term interests. I pledge to foster an
environment where every resident feels heard, decisions are explained, and the impacts on
our city’s affordability are always front and center.
Now, more than ever, Portsmouth needs elected officials who understand that stewardship
is about listening and leading with principle. I am ready to work with neighbors, partners,
and city staff to restore trust and build a future that honors our city’s spirit and heritage.
Governing Philosophy
Having previously served on the City Council, I know that Portsmouth succeeds when there
is open dialogue and true public input. I will work to restore inclusive and transparent
representation for all residents.
Experience That Matters
My experience across both corporate and small business management has given me a
pragmatic approach to city governance—living within our means and protecting taxpayers.
If elected, I will be a strong advocate for residents and help ensure Portsmouth remains an
inclusive and thriving city.
Call to Action
Portsmouth requires leadership on the City Council that is both experienced and diverse. I
am committed to engaging in thoughtful inquiry and seeking solutions beyond routine
consensus. Sound decisions are achieved through transparent and sincere public discussion.
I respectfully request your support at the polls on November 4th.