Letter to the Editor:
I’m running for Boston City Council At-large because our city deserves leadership that puts people first. I’m not a politician—I’m a husband, father of three, Marine, small business owner, and son of immigrants.
I’ve spent my life in service: from the frontlines of Afghanistan to supporting our veterans at the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS) to growing Ula Café in Jamaica Plain—a place where everyone belongs, and no one goes hungry.
I’ve built my career on integrity, hard work, and getting things done—without backroom deals or insider politics.
Boston is at a turning point. Families can’t find affordable homes, our schools are crumbling, and our streets aren’t safe. You deserve better. I’m running because we need bold, long-term solutions—not quick fixes. City Hall must work for the people, not special interests.
As a Marine major and soon-to-be Lt. Colonel, I’ve led humanitarian missions across Haiti, Guyana, Colombia, and Afghanistan. At EOVS, I helped resolve over 1,500 veteran cases in one year—connecting people to housing, mental health support, and jobs. I am also the executive director of the Toussaint Louverture Cultural Center, where we’ve raised over $300,000 to celebrate Haitian culture and combat negative rhetoric through programs that empower our community.
I stand for all communities—immigrants, veterans, LGBTQ+ residents, and everyone who calls Boston home. My wife Beth and I are raising our children in Roxbury. We know what it’s like to want safe streets, good schools, and a city where families can thrive.
I’ll fight for more affordable rental units and expand first-time homebuyer programs by taxing out-of-town developers who profit from displacing hard-working Bostonians. I’ll champion a fare-free MBTA with reliable service and expanded routes that connect neighborhoods.
I’ll improve community-police relations, increase funding for mental health and substance use recovery, and invest in youth jobs and community programs to prevent crime before it starts.
City Hall must be accountable. I’ll push for transparent, resident-led budgeting, end corporate tax giveaways, and respect your hard-earned tax dollars. We need a bold, long-term plan that builds climate resiliency, ensures quality services, and keeps Boston affordable for everyday people—not just the wealthy.
As a Boston Public Schools parent, I see the gaps in our education system. I’ll fight for STEM and vocational programs that lead to good-paying jobs, and a curriculum that includes financial literacy, civics, the arts, and social-emotional learning.
Small businesses are the heart of Boston’s economy. We need simplified permitting, more city contracts for local entrepreneurs, and targeted grants to help small businesses thrive and grow. Boston has always been a city of hope and resilience.
I believe in a city that works for all of us, not just the powerful few. I humbly ask for your votes on Sept. 9 and Nov. 4h. Learn more at marvinforboston.com.
