METHUEN — On Tuesday voters will choose which four Central District City Council candidates will move on to the general election.
The race for central district councilor is the only race to require a preliminary vote this election season. Neither of the current central councilors are seeking reelection. The final, city-wide election will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 4.
The district is comprised of precincts 1, 2, 6, 6A, 10, 14 and the voting will be held from 7 a.m to 7 p.m. at the Timony Grammar School, 45 Pleasant View St.
The following six candidates are running for the two seats that represent the district on the nine member council.
Sharon Birchall, 68
Occupation: Director of Development at Top Notch Scholars
Reason and qualifications for running:
I am running for City Council to bring fresh leadership that listens, takes action, and puts our community first. I care deeply about making our city safer, more affordable, and more connected. This isn’t about politics — it’s about people, and I am ready to get to work for all of us.
Most pressing issue:
Methuen’s biggest challenge is keeping our roads, schools, public spaces, and city facilities in good shape while being responsible with taxpayer dollars. I’ll prioritize critical repairs, involve the community and work closely with city departments to get the best results efficiently.
Ella MacLaren, 20
Occupation: College student, Political Science Major at Merrimack College Honors Program
Reason and qualifications for running:
I’m running for Methuen’s Central District City Council because as a lifelong Methuen resident and a proud graduate of Methuen Public Schools, I’ve seen firsthand what makes our city special— and I’m committed to protecting and expanding those opportunities for all residents. I bring a fresh, informed perspective grounded in lived experience, deep community roots, and a passion for public service.
Most pressing issue:
In Methuen, the rising cost of living is making it increasingly more challenging to ensure that everyone— regardless of background— can build a life here. Many of my peers now question the sustainability of calling our city home. We need smart, community-driven development: commitment to supporting local businesses, affordable housing, and investing in public education. N
Yanilda Santos, 48
Occupation: Residential mortgage loan officer
Reason and qualifications for running:
I’m running for city council because I care deeply about the future of our community. My focus is on ensuring economic development, equitable housing and strengthening Family values. As a single mother, a woman of faith and a local business professional, I understand the challenges families face and I want to be the voice for them at the city hall.
Most pressing issue:
Economic Development is just one of the many challenges that our community is facing at this time The best way to approach this issue is with a clear strategic planning, effective collaboration, responsible budgeting and transparent leadership.
LouAnn Santos 48
Occupation: Disabled
Reason and qualifications for running:
I had the privilege of being a member of the Methuen School Committee from 2020-2025, including sitting next to former Mayor Neil Perry, holding the position of Vice Chair. I previously had no political experience. I learned a lot, and am still learning. I’m a wife and a mom with a voice. My family and I have volunteered for several events over the years, because we truly care about our community.
Most pressing issue:
In my opinion, it is the budgets of the city. Where is money being allocated and/or spent? I am not afraid to ask the questions necessary to find answers. I may not be the “perfect” candidate, but who is?
Steve Gillis, 62
Occupation: Business owner
Reason and qualifications for running:
Because I love Methuen and feel called to serve. I want to bring honesty, common sense, and a personal conviction I will always put the community first on every decision. I’m a lifelong Methuen resident, a businessman, and a born-again Christian. Over the years, I’ve owned restaurants, a limo company, co-owned a car dealership, and now run the successful Happy Tails Dog Daycare.
Most pressing issue:
For too long, Methuen has focused primarily on building low income housing, and yet our taxes go up, We need to shift our attention marketing Methuen to attracting good companies —that provide good-paying jobs for our residents, that will strengthen our local economy, and ensure a prosperous future for Methuen.
Derrick(Tony) Jones
Occupation: Employee of the Department of Mental Health
Reason and qualifications for running:
I am running for Methuen City Council to add an infusion of new ideas along with a different management style. My initial proposal can best be described as a ‘people-centric approach’ to solve the myriad of socio-cultural and economic maladies, which have negatively impacted many neighborhoods.
Most pressing issue:
As a candidate for City Council, it is my objective view/opinion that there is no singular issue affecting citizens. Unfortunately, many of these irritants do not require great expenditures but still remain unresolved much to the chagrin of residents affected. Cognizant of the demographic changes across our city I believe that services rendered to new arrivals will necessitate an approach that is accommodating and inclusive.
Editor’s note: Some of the responses needed to be trimmed for print the full answers will be available online Monday afternoon.