Occupation: Construction Project Manager
Your Education/Background: Duchess Community College, NY
How Long Have You Lived in Manchester? 2-3 Years
Hobbies/Fun Fact about you/other biographical info: My greatest joy comes from spending quality time with my wife and children — whether we’re at the local park, hiking trail, dog park, lake, movies, or library. Family time is everything to me. I especially enjoy bonding with my oldest son, who’s an honor roll student and strapping young man. We enjoy the outdoors, hunting, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and boxing! My family is incredibly close, and we do everything together — from church, to family fun and volunteer community work.
On an individual level, I’m passionate about sports, particularly football, baseball, and combat sports. I’m a former high school football player (wide receiver), an amateur boxing champion at 152 lbs., and a former MMA fighter specializing as a striker. Despite my rugged, tough exterior, I’m really just a gentle giant — a dad who loves wearing blue jeans, camo, work boots, and any good old hat with an American flag. I’m a simple man who loves his family, values hard work, and truly cares about others. I may live in the city, but I’m a true country boy at heart!
If elected, what steps would you endorse to address the issue of homelessness in the city?
This topic truly hits home for me. Having experienced homelessness and witnessed substance abuse from family and friends. I have deep empathy for those struggling. There’s a clear link between homelessness and addiction — and we must address both with accountability and compassion. By enforcing no-tolerance ordinances for public intoxication and indecency, we state a message that crime will not be tolerated. If we work together to invest and provide better resources, stronger rehabilitation processes and workforce programs, we can help individuals rebuild their lives and restore dignity to our community. It may not solve homelessness overnight, but it’s a meaningful first step in the right direction.
If elected, what steps would you endorse to address the issue of housing costs?
While I am financially comfortable, I, too, have felt the impact of rising costs just like many of our residents. Especially being the sole provider for my wife and four children. We need a practical plan — one that manages property taxes responsibly and keeps rent affordable. Inflation, escalation, and taxation are hurting homeowners, small business owners, and working families the most. We must provide tax relief, cut wasteful spending, and invest in affordable housing. Cleaning up our streets and reducing crime will also make Manchester safer and more appealing. Encouraging residents and visitors to support our local economy. My approach is simple — listen to residents, find real solutions, and take action one step at a time. As I always say: in boxing, if you look for the knockout too early, you leave yourself open to danger. But with patience, focus, and the right plan, you will win the fight every time — and that’s exactly how Manchester will win!
If elected, what steps would you endorse to address the issue of attracting and retaining quality city employees?
Quality pay, teamwork, and unity are essential to building a better Manchester. When we value our public employees, we attract new talent and inspire our current workforce to continue serving with pride, dedication, and commitment to our community. Great examples also start at the top. Strong leader, strong team, strong results!
What is your perspective on the city’s roads, transit system and parking? If you believe improvement is needed, how would you accomplish that?
Anyone who’s heard my message knows that I’m a strong advocate for investing back into our infrastructure — because appeal creates attraction! When it comes to parking, the city could explore partnerships with reputable contractors to develop modern parking garages. This would not only provide more vehicle space but, also boost our local economy. To strengthen our transit system, we need to expand routes to better serve residents who live outside of pickup areas. Implement transfers to assist with public transportation affordability. And enhance safety measures to protect all passengers. These are issues I plan to conduct more research on and look into further.
What is your opinion on the city’s parks, library and entertainment offerings/public events? If improvement is needed, what should be done?
Manchester is a vibrant and festive city, rich with established community events that celebrate our diversity, culture, and unity. it would be wise to place greater focus on our parks and libraries By allocating funds wisely and cutting wasteful spending, we can make our parks safer and more accessible with ADA-compliant upgrades, better maintenance, and even a members-only dog park that generates revenue for continued improvements. Our libraries also deserve investment — with more engaging children’s programs, updated books, and modern, inviting reading spaces. These are essential resources for our youth and community.
What is your opinion on the city’s policies regarding property taxes and other fees (i.e. – pet licenses, parking meters, etc.)
I will continue to reiterate that I am not in favor of raising taxes. Managing the city budget efficiently is key to reducing the financial burden on residents. Responsible budgeting can help homeowners better afford their mortgages, property upkeep, and everyday expenses. When it comes to licensing fees, we must be transparent, fair, and practical. While budget cuts cannot be made in every corner of government, we can ensure that city funds are allocated wisely — prioritizing essential services while eliminating wasteful spending. This is a necessary process!
What are your thoughts on the city’s business climate and how would you attract more businesses to come to Manchester or convince more people to start businesses in Manchester?
We could conduct a community survey to gather input from residents on the types of businesses they’d like to see in Manchester. This feedback would help guide development efforts and ensure that new businesses truly reflect the needs and interests of our community. By partnering with the Chamber of Commerce, we can also identify which types of businesses would be the best fit for our city and provide support for aspiring entrepreneurs. This collaboration would strengthen local economic growth and will result in a more successful Manchester.
What is your opinion of the state of education in Manchester and what should the relationship be between the Board of School Committee and Board of Mayor and Aldermen?
It is crucial that we invest in our children’s education. We need stronger curriculum, higher-quality teaching materials, and more trade programs to prepare our youth for success. As a father with children in the Manchester school system, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges that need attention — from unreliable and disorganized bus schedules to inconsistent academic standards. We must raise expectations, restore accountability, and ensure that every student is given the opportunity to succeed. When we push our children to reach their full potential, there’s no limit to what they can achieve. I am also a proud advocate for children with autism. As a parent of a child with autism spectrum (Level 3), I understand the daily challenges families face. We must strengthen IEP support and assistance programs to ensure these children receive the care, attention, and quality education they deserve.
Anything else you’d like to add not mentioned here and what is the best way voters can reach you if they have more questions?
In closing as a friendly reminder. I am a strong advocate for reducing crime, better quality education, improving infrastructure, and lower taxes. I have developed practical solutions to address these issues that WILL deliver results. The truth is, many residents have lost faith in local government and rightfully so — it’s time to restore new faith that public servants will improve service and actually serve the community. I think my message has been clear, the residents of Ward 10 come first. My priority is quality of life and public safety. It’s time for transparent, accountable and proactive leadership. I am Robert Rivera, your candidate for Alderman Ward 10 — where with action and results, I’ll serve you best!