Dr. Sanjay Saini introduced Marty Walsh to the audience. After a short meet and greet, Walsh answered questions on a range of topics. 

 

"At age seven, I survived a bout of Burkett’s lymphoma, a form of childhood cancer, thanks in part to experimental treatments and extraordinary care I received at Children’s Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. I know there are a lot of doctors in this room. I am a strong supporter of the hospitals and I will work with them to ensure all city support,” said Walsh. 

A strong supporter of entrepreneurship, he said he would work to attract and foster new businesses. He would work to streamline the permitting process, demand interdepartmental coordination, and clear a direct path for business assistance from city staff so both large and small entrepreneurs find Boston a place to do business.  When asked about his opinion on Fidelity’s move to Rhode Island because of incentives, he felt the move by Rhode Island was not very fiscally prudent. While he felt he would like to do what he could to attract and retain business in Boston, he felt a strong obligation to be fiscally prudent while providing tax breaks. 

“Greater Boston is recognized around the world as a leader in technology and innovation. With the development of the Innovation District on the Waterfront, the City of Boston has become a focus of new regional growth. In only three years, Boston has attracted more than 200 new technology companies to the Innovation District, creating more than 4000 jobs. My policies will amplify the growing success of the Innovation District and remove remaining barriers to growth,” said Walsh. 

When Lokvani mentioned the cancellation of India’s Independence Day celebration this year at the Hatch Shell, he expressed his disappointment at that cancellation and said he would work with the community to try to bring the celebration back to the Hatch Shell. 

Affordability and availability of homes was an area of focus for Walsh.  He hopes to work with developers to build more apartments and condos so that buyers and renters have more options. 

When asked about inclusiveness in City government, he was clear that he is very supportive of diversity. “I will look to leaders from all communities to help move the city forward and I certainly hope to tap into the talent in the Indian community,” said Walsh. 

Lokvani wishes Marty Walsh the very best as he takes on the Mayorship of the great city of Boston.