Rep. Kassner Seeks Third Term, Emphasizes Water Issues in 2nd Essex

In an interview at Kaede B & B on North Main, Rep. Kristin Kassner, a Democrat running for a third term in the 2nd Essex District, discussed her long focus on water and related policy work. Kassner said she enjoys being on and in the water and is concentrating on water quality near clam beds, protection of the Great Marsh, and ensuring downstream Ipswich River communities receive sufficient flow.

The watershed now must serve about 350,000 people, and Kassner noted that century-old agreements and 1980–82 water-use figures do not match today’s reality. She serves on a Watershed Task Force, is working with the Mass. Department of Environmental Protection, is monitoring a related court case, and is engaged with the Division of Marine Fisheries and a Shellfish Task Force pressing the EPA to use real-world water-purity metrics. Some critics call her "invisible," and Kassner said her campaign is active and disputed that her opponent has offered alternative plans. She has 25 years in public planning and expressed support for technology innovation while saying she is cautious about A.I. and opposes data centers in the region because of water and electric concerns. The Local News reports Gov. Healy provided interim compensation to tide workers.