As a Boston suburb, we need viable open space and green space for Medford’s residents and families. Studies overwhelmingly show that we need open space and green space to maximize physical and mental health. Green space is also essential to combating climate change. This past council session, I worked to help we establish Medford’s first dog park, and secure funding for several community gardens. But there’s so much more we can do! If we want to be serious about expanding our green and open space, we must work together to increase the proportion of usable open space required in new developments. Next term, I’ll also work to increase and improve upon our tree planting and tree maintenance practices.