Haverhill has made history with the election of Katrina Hobbs Everett, the first Black woman to serve on the City Council. On November 7, 2023, Hobbs Everett won the election for Ward 2 with an impressive 816 votes, defeating her opponent, Toni Sapienza-Donais, by a significant margin. Her victory marks a new chapter in Haverhill’s political landscape, where she aims to bring fresh perspectives and focus on issues that matter to local residents.
Hobbs Everett’s triumph is not only a personal achievement but also a milestone for the community. She is determined to be a strong voice for all Haverhill residents and contribute to the city’s growth. As she steps into her new role, she is excited about working with the full council and the newly elected mayor to push the city forward.
A Political Journey of Determination
This was Hobbs Everett’s fourth attempt at running for office, having first ventured into politics in 2015. Her path has been marked by persistence, with each election strengthening her commitment to local service. In 2021, Haverhill’s electoral system changed from an at-large system to a ward-based system, giving candidates like Hobbs Everett a better chance to connect with their communities.
“I am hopeful and excited about working with the full council and our newly elected mayor to continue to move Haverhill forward,” Hobbs Everett said. Her long journey in local politics shows her dedication to public service and belief in the potential for change at the local level.
The Shift to a Ward-Based System
The switch to a ward-based system in Haverhill played a key role in Hobbs Everett’s success. This new structure divides the city into districts, giving each district a council representative. Voters in Ward 2, where Hobbs Everett ran, now have a stronger voice in the city’s decision-making process. This system is believed to give a fairer chance for local candidates to be elected, especially those without the extensive financial backing typically needed for at-large citywide races.
“I do believe that moving to a ward-based system helps to open the door to candidates who would otherwise take much longer to get on based on the former at-large system,” Hobbs Everett explained. This change allows for more diverse representation and better engagement between elected officials and their constituents.
Community Work and Leadership
Hobbs Everett’s deep ties to the Haverhill community set her apart from other candidates. She is a Haverhill native, born into a family with a long history of community service. Her parents, the late Bishop Franklin Hobbs and co-Pastor Carolyn Hobbs, served in ministry to the city for over 50 years. Hobbs Everett’s own contributions to the community include founding Power of Self-Education Inc. (POSE), a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening local communities through engagement and advocacy.
Additionally, she has worked across various sectors, including city, state, and federal organizations. With 25 years of experience in the human and social services fields, Hobbs Everett brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to her new role as a city councilor.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Hobbs Everett is focused on issues that directly affect Haverhill residents, including youth engagement, affordable housing, and public safety. She has been actively involved in addressing the city’s opioid crisis, the school-to-prison pipeline, and improving education outcomes for local youth. She is also passionate about creating a more inclusive and equitable city for all.
With her experience and strong community connections, Hobbs Everett is poised to make a lasting impact on the city of Haverhill. Her dedication to public service and commitment to local advocacy will serve as the foundation for her work on the City Council.
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