Doug Robinson: Seeking Ward 5 council seat because city deserves better

To The Daily Sun,

My name is Doug Robinson, and I’m officially filing to run for city council because this city — the one I’ve called home my entire life — deserves better.

My roots run deep in Laconia. My grandfather, Officer Robinson, served this community. My mémé and pépé worked in the Laconia Shoe Shop and the Allen-Rogers wood factory. My son played football and baseball in our town leagues and attended our local schools. I’m proud to be part of a working-class family that’s lived, served, and believed in this community for generations.

But Laconia is changing — and not for the better. Our budget has ballooned, and much of the spending has been kicked down the road through municipal bonds. Those debts will come due, and we need a real plan — not just for today, but for tomorrow.

At the same time, the state has shifted financial burdens onto cities and towns, which means property taxes will keep rising unless we change course. Meanwhile, our lake water and green spaces continue to decline year after year, with little accountability and fewer long-term solutions.

I believe our city needs a new approach — one rooted in fiscal discipline, infrastructure that actually gets fixed, housing policies that protect residents, and stewardship of our natural resources. I’ve served on the housing committee and supported groups that help residents facing economic hardship, housing insecurity, and homelessness. These organizations focus on self-reliance, giving people the tools to stabilize their lives and move forward.

Through my hands-on experience in the workforce — managing teams, properties, and budgets — I’ve learned that good management starts with listening, listing priorities clearly, and following through. And that’s what I plan to do: listen closely to what Laconia thinks, act on what matters, and serve with integrity.

Doug Robinson

Laconia