Guma Campaign to Release First Video Ad at Midnight; Focus Shifts to Weinberger's Plans

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, 2/6/15 – At Midnight tonight, the Guma for Mayor Campaign will release its first video ad of the campaign on YouTube. Titled “Take the Target off Burlington’s Back,” the 36-second Fox News-style "attack" talks about redevelopment and the need to balance preservation and change in a satirical, over-the top style with animation and local images. The ad was produced by Grand Street Media, a Manhattan-based production company co-managed by Guma’s 37-year-old son, Jesse Lloyd Guma. It was previewed on WPTZ tonight.

On Wednesday Guma released a print ad, and will have a new one focusing on Weinberger’s record and plans next week. Today at a press conference broadcast on WOMM-FM, a low power radio station that covers most of Burlington, he challenged Weinberger to reveal his plans for the city before the election, and pointed to projects like a new waterfront hotel and south end arts complex, as well as zoning amendments that would allow developers to build in any neighborhood, including multiple buildings and duplexes. If amendments ZA 15-1 and 2 go into effect, says the candidate, looking at adverse impacts will no longer even be considered during the initial permit process.

After the press conference, talking with WPTZ 

“Mixed use is fine, in the right places,” Guma said. “But it’s not right for every neighborhood, especially the cultural district and enterprise zone in the south end."

The ad is the first of several Guma wants to release. A second is in production.

On Thursday night, Guma received a warm reception at the Ward 6 NPA forum, while Goodkind was criticized from the audience and Weinberger had to defend a report that suggests parking fees be considered in residential areas.

The campaign has raised more than $5,000 in the last six days, much of which will be used on literature and distribution, and is actively seeking more contributors. A preliminary budget and campaign fundraising goal will be announced next week.