Mark Sylvia

Mark Sylvia was born in New Bedford, Massachusetts. He earned a bachelor's degree from American University in 1996 and a graduate degree from American University in 1998. His career experience includes working in government administration and as a town manager, commissioner, undersecretary, and executive.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Mark was born in New Bedford, MA and grew up in Fairhaven, MA. He attended the Fairhaven Public Schools, graduating from Fairhaven High School. He earned his bachelor’s degree in political science and his master’s degree in public administration from American University in Washington, DC. Mark has raised his children in Fairhaven and his values and the person he is are all a reflection of his family, the South Coast community and the generations of hard-working people that make up the 10th Bristol District. It is what has driven him to help others, to be an advocate, and to help improve our quality of life.

Mark has over twenty years of municipal experience serving in both appointed and elected roles, including, Town Manager in Plymouth, MA and as an elected member of the Fairhaven School Committee and currently as the elected Town Moderator. He also has extensive experience in state government having served as the first Director of the Green Communities Division, as Commissioner of the Department of Energy Resources and as the Undersecretary of Energy all in the Patrick Administration. For the last nine years, Mark has worked in the private sector as an executive at a Boston based clean energy company.

Mark will be ready to go on Day 1 bringing with him his immense energy and enthusiasm for our communities, his state, municipal and private sector experience and relationships, and the voices of the people of the 10th Bristol District.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

We need to make housing more affordable and available for residents.We need to provide more funding for local services such as education, public safety and transportationWe need to lower healthcare and childcare costs and protect access to reproductive healthcare and expand mental health resources.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

State funding to cities and towns (education, public safety, seniors), the fishing industry, clean energy, housing, transportation, government transparency, environment and natural resources , health care and economic development.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

The movie Mr. Smith Goes to Washington sums up how I view the role of an elected representative.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Honesty, accessibility to your constituents, being present in your district, being a good listener and transparency.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

There are three core responsibilities of a state representative: (1) providing constituent services - assisting the people of your district with state and local issues, (2) sponsoring and co-sponsoring legislation that improves the lives of people in your district and (3) collaborating with other legislators, local officials and stakeholders to help solve issues in their district and region.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I was a camp counselor at Camp Massasoit in Mattapoisett for nine summers.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

A governor and state legislature should function as a partnership - ultimately both branches must work together to address the needs of residents. When the two don't work together, important issues do not get addressed in a timely manner. There will be differences of opinion and competing priorities - but on core issues that enable citizens to thrive and the state grow, there needs to be compromise and partnership.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Housing affordability and accessibility, climate change, transportation and adequate funding of key services.

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Ideally it would be beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government and the private sector/business.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

Yes - its actually critical. The Massachusetts House of Representatives consists of 160 members - for any legislation to pass, it requires a majority of members to agree. And when a legislator hopes to have their priorities passed, they need co-sponsors, support in committee and on the floor. Building relationships establishes trust and respect and understanding - all important to succeeding as a legislator.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

The incumbent state representative, Bill Straus has endorsed my candidacy as has MA AFL CIO, American Federation of Teachers, Environmental League of Massachusetts, Bricklayers and Allied Craftsmen Local 3, and Moms Demand Action.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

Financial transparency and government accountability are crucial to voters having faith and confidence in our democratic system of government and its elected leaders.