What makes a neighborhood truly livable isn’t a slogan—it’s the basics done right. We sit with Ward D council candidate Patrick Ambrosi for a grounded conversation on how to bring Central Avenue back to life, deliver real affordability, and fix everyday problems like trash, park maintenance, and street safety. Patrick grew up in the Heights and has spent years fighting for open spaces; that track record shows in a plan that treats plazas, outdoor dining, and a stronger SID as catalysts for local business and weekend energy.

Housing is the heart of the debate. Patrick makes the case that affordability requires supply: targeted upzoning where it fits, inclusionary rules that actually apply in Ward D, and a community land bank that turns city-owned or foreclosed lots into attainable condos with capped prices. Instead of demonizing developers, he argues for performance-based deals that protect the public while producing the units families need. We also dig into sanitation—a topic most candidates avoid. With contracts in place and budgets tight, the path forward is tighter enforcement now and a phased move toward hybrid city services, not an overnight switch that would blow up the budget.

We talk parks and public space with the same candor: Pershing Field needs steady investment, not posts and promises. A dog run, open fields, and routine maintenance should be basic, not controversial. And when national politics spills into neighborhood spaces, consistent permitting and safety for all communities must guide the response. If you care about clean streets, walkable blocks, small businesses that survive, and a Heights where families actually want to linger on weekends, this conversation lays out a practical roadmap.

If this resonated, follow the show, share with a neighbor, and leave a quick review—it helps more Ward D residents find it and join the conversation.

Your hosts: @lynnhazan_ and @tonydoesknow

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