Occupation: I am a Business Analyst and Agile Project Lead working as a contractor for the U.S. Air Force supporting data integration and modernization projects. I help large teams plan, communicate, and deliver results more effectively by improving collaboration and building consensus among competing stakeholders. These are the same skills I believe are needed to serve the residents of Ward 9 and make city government more efficient and accountable.
Your Education/Background: I hold a degree in Criminal Justice and completed the Massachusetts Northeast Regional Police Institute for Reserve and Intermittent Police Officers. I also earned multiple technology certificates from the University of Massachusetts in Lowell. In addition, I hold several professional certifications in Agile and project management, including from Scrum Inc., Scrum.org, the Scaled Agile Framework, and the Project Management Institute. My educational and professional background has given me a strong foundation in teamwork, accountability, and problem solving—skills I believe are essential to effective leadership in city government.
How Long Have You Lived in Manchester? I have lived in Manchester since the mid-90s and in our current home in Ward 9 since 2003. Over that time, my wife and I have built our life and raised our family here. We take great pride in this community and are deeply committed to its future.
Hobbies/Fun Fact about you/other biographical info: Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and son and exploring new places when we travel. I’m a foodie who loves trying different restaurants and cuisines, and Ward 9 has some of the best variety in the city with Greek, Japanese, Indian, Mexican, Thai, and plenty of great chicken spots. I grew up in a political family but purposely stayed away from politics for many years after seeing firsthand how divisive it can become. Over time, I realized that sitting on the sidelines doesn’t help move our community forward, and I decided to get involved so I could help bring a more balanced, solutions-focused approach to local government.
If elected, what steps would you endorse to address the issue of homelessness in the city?
Homelessness is a serious issue that is directly affecting the residents of Ward 9 and the city as a whole. It requires both compassion and accountability. The city cannot address it alone, but it can play a key role in coordinating with local nonprofits, faith-based groups, and regional partners who have experience helping people rebuild their lives. We need to focus on solutions that promote self-sufficiency, connect people with mental health and addiction services, and provide pathways to employment and stable housing. The reality is that not everyone who is homeless is ready or willing to accept help right now.
Our city should prioritize resources for those who are ready to make a change while continuing to engage and build trust with others over time. By recognizing the different needs within the homeless population, we can focus our efforts where they will have the greatest impact while still extending compassion and outreach to everyone. At a recent Board of Mayor and Aldermen meeting, I highlighted a successful program from Albuquerque, New Mexico called “There’s a Better Way.” It pairs outreach with short-term work opportunities and access to support services, helping people take the first step toward independence while restoring dignity and promoting accountability. Manchester should look at implementing a similar approach that connects people with purpose, supports them through the transition, and helps restore safety and confidence in our community.
If elected, what steps would you endorse to address the issue of housing costs?
The cost of housing in Manchester has risen dramatically, putting pressure on families, seniors, and first-time buyers. In Ward 9, most of our housing consists of single-family homes, and while residents value that character, many also see how rising costs are making it harder for the next generation to buy or stay in the city. We need a balanced approach that promotes affordability and expands housing options without compromising neighborhood quality or overburdening taxpayers.
Recently, I wrote on my campaign blog about Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as one way to responsibly expand housing. I suggested the city explore offering a set of predefined building plans that homeowners could use to simplify the process, reduce design and permitting costs, and save time. Ideas like this can make small-scale development more accessible while keeping growth in line with existing neighborhoods. At the same time, the city must continue reviewing its impact fees, permitting processes, and zoning regulations to ensure they are not unnecessarily driving up costs. By focusing on responsible growth, supporting homeownership, and aligning policies with long-term planning, we can help make housing more attainable while preserving the character that makes Ward 9 such a desirable place to live.
If elected, what steps would you endorse to address the issue of attracting and retaining quality city employees?
Attracting and keeping talented city employees is essential to delivering reliable services and maintaining public safety. While competitive pay and benefits are important, so are leadership, communication, and a workplace culture that values accountability and respect. Recently, I spoke with representatives from both police unions who described serious challenges in recruitment and retention. They are currently short about 30 officers, which has forced remaining staff to work overtime, increased caseloads, and lowered morale. Many officers are leaving for better-paying positions in other communities or leaving law enforcement altogether.
These are warning signs that the city cannot ignore.
We need to ensure that Manchester’s pay structure is competitive with surrounding towns, especially for critical roles like police, fire, and public works. At the same time, we must look at long-term sustainability. Across New Hampshire, unexpected increases in health care costs have caused major financial strain for schools and municipalities. Manchester should review its own benefits exposure and model future risks so we are not caught off guard by the same kind of budget shock other districts are now facing. Finally, the city should invest in modern tools, training, and clear performance goals that give employees pride and ownership in their work. By combining competitive compensation, smart financial planning, and a culture of accountability, we can attract and retain the quality workforce our city depends on.
What is your perspective on the city’s roads, transit system and parking? If you believe improvement is needed, how would you accomplish that?
Road safety is one of the top concerns I hear about from Ward 9 residents. Many have raised serious concerns about speeding and accidents on South Beech Street, Brown Avenue, and Calef Road. My own family has been affected when my wife and son were rear-ended on South Beech Street while stopped in traffic. We need stronger enforcement and targeted traffic-calming measures to make these roads safer. Parking is another challenge in Ward 9, especially in the Beech Hill area where on-street parking from nearby apartments limits space and creates problems during winter snow removal. The city should review parking rules in dense neighborhoods and explore practical solutions that keep roads safe and accessible. The city must also use data, not politics, to prioritize road maintenance and improve communication about upcoming projects so residents know what to expect. Transit routes should better match how people live and work today, with schedules and stops that help support local employers.
What is your opinion on the city’s parks, library and entertainment offerings/public events? If improvement is needed, what should be done?
Ward 9 has some of the city’s best outdoor and recreational spaces, including the Rail Trail, Precourt Park and Nutts Pond, the Hollows Disc Golf Course, Barbara Shaw Park, Sullivan Family Park, and the Brown and Mitchell Softball Field. We also have meaningful historic sites like Pine Grove, Hebrew, and the Saint Augustin Cemeteries. These places are part of what make our ward such a great place to live, and they deserve consistent upkeep, improved safety, and better visibility so more families take advantage of them. Across the city, venues like the SNHU Arena and Delta Dental Stadium are important community anchors, but both could be better utilized. The arena, for example, seems to sit empty too often.
We should explore more ways to bring year-round events, concerts, and family-friendly activities to these spaces so they benefit residents and local businesses alike. The city is also considering building a new skate park. I wrote about this in my blog post titled “Building Smart, Not Just Big: Manchester’s Proposed $kate Park.” The project, while promising, is currently estimated initially at about $2.5 million in construction cost and roughly $5.5 million with the 20-year bonding and related interest and fees. I believe the skate park should be funded through grants, private partnerships, or nonprofit fundraising rather than additional tax burden. This kind of shared-responsibility model better aligns with fiscal accountability and community collaboration.
The Manchester City Library continues to be essential resources. With continued investment in technology they can continue to serve residents of all ages even more effectively. Public events such as food-truck festivals, parades, and seasonal celebrations also play a key role in keeping our city vibrant. We must ensure those opportunities are spread throughout all wards so every neighborhood feels included.
What is your opinion on the city’s policies regarding property taxes and other fees (i.e. – pet licenses, parking meters, etc.)
In Ward 9, like much of Manchester, residents have seen their property taxes rise year after year while feeling little improvement in the services they depend on. Families here work hard to make ends meet, and the city should do the same. The tax cap exists for a reason, and it should not be overridden except in true emergencies. Earlier this year, the Board of Mayor and Aldermen approved a budget that was about $1.5 million higher than what the Mayor proposed, led in part by Ward 9 Alderman Jim Burkush.
In 2022, when he first ran for the seat, he promised to respect the tax cap, only to vote to override it a few months later. Those choices directly contribute to higher property taxes for Ward 9 residents who are already struggling with rising costs. Throwing more money at problems does not solve them. We need stronger oversight, clearer priorities, and accountability for results before asking taxpayers for more.
We also need greater transparency in how city funds are used. Budget information should go beyond department totals and show detailed expenses, contracts, and measurable outcomes. Ward 9 residents deserve to see exactly where their money goes and what value it delivers. Whether it is parking meters, pet licenses, or permit fees, every charge should be reviewed to ensure it is fair and necessary. Fiscal responsibility and transparency are essential to restoring trust and ensuring that Ward 9 families see real results for every dollar they contribute.
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?
Manchester has tremendous potential, but the city needs to do a better job of engaging with and supporting local businesses. Strong communication between city leadership and employers builds confidence and encourages investment. Representatives from FW Webb, located in Ward 9, shared with me that they never heard from their current alderman about the homeless shelter across the street from their location. They have been frustrated with the direct impacts it has had on their business and the large amounts of money they have needed to spend on 24-hour security and related upgrades. That situation highlights the need for better outreach and coordination.
We should make Manchester the easiest city in New Hampshire to do business with by improving communication, streamlining permitting, and creating a single point of contact to help businesses navigate city processes. Manchester should also work to attract more technology and life-science companies that offer high-quality jobs and long-term stability. While those employers may locate in other parts of the city, we need to plan housing and infrastructure that appeal to the professionals working in those industries. Well-designed, well-maintained neighborhoods and convenient access to amenities will help attract and retain that workforce, strengthening our economy citywide.
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?
Education is one of the most important responsibilities of city government, yet Manchester’s results have not kept pace with the increasing level of funding. Over the past decade, the city’s school budget has grown from about $160 million in 2015 to nearly $238 million in 2026, while the student population has declined by almost 3,000 students. During that same time, the number of teachers has remained nearly flat, and administrative and “other support” positions have increased, even as academic performance remains well below state targets. In 2023–2024, only 29 percent of students met the English Language Arts standard compared to the state target of 66 percent, 19 percent met the math standard compared to the state target of 52 percent, and 15 percent met the science standard compared to the state target of 51 percent, despite a cost per pupil approaching $18,000. Data for the most recent school year has not yet been published. Manchester has many dedicated teachers and staff, but these numbers show that simply spending more money is not improving outcomes.
The Board of Mayor and Aldermen and the Board of School Committee need a stronger, more cooperative relationship focused on measurable results rather than politics. As a parent of a Manchester public school student, I see firsthand the dedication of our teachers and the challenges they face. The two boards need to meet more regularly to align priorities, increase transparency, and ensure that every dollar spent directly supports students and teachers.
They should also establish more direct lines of communication with school staff, teachers, and students so they can hear concerns and ideas firsthand rather than through filtered reports. Residents deserve to see clear, detailed reporting on where funds are going and what results they produce. By focusing on accountability, collaboration, and data-driven decisions, we can provide a higher-quality education for students across the city while respecting taxpayers.
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?
Serving as Alderman is about listening, learning, and finding practical solutions that work for the people of Manchester. I am running to bring more transparency, accountability, and measurable results to City Hall so residents can clearly see how their tax dollars are being spent and what they are getting in return. As my campaign tagline says, I am guided by values and focused on outcomes. That means approaching every issue with honesty, data, and a genuine commitment to results, not politics. My goal is to make city government more responsive and to ensure every decision is made with residents’ best interests in mind.
I care deeply about this community because my family and I live here, my son attends Manchester public schools, and I want to see this city thrive for the next generation. Voters can reach me at Micklon4Manchester@gmail.com, by phone at 603-670-4010, or through my website at www.TroyMicklon.com. I also post updates and respond to questions on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/TroyMicklonWard9
- X (Twitter): x.com/Micklon4Manch
- Instagram: instagram.com/TroyMicklonWard9
- TikTok: tiktok.com/@Micklon.Ward.9
I would be honored to earn your vote on November 4.