PEABODY — Local business owner Rochelle Agneta has officially announced her second campaign for mayor of Peabody, pledging to prioritize transparency, educational investment, and economic growth.
“I am running to be the next mayor of Peabody — not because I have all the answers but because I believe in working together to find them,” Agneta said in her announcement on Facebook. “I am not just a candidate, I am a parent, a neighbor, and a citizen who believes in the promise of this community.”
She said that the reason she is running for mayor is that “there is clearly fiscal irresponsibility in the City of Peabody.”
Agneta emphasized her focus on strong public schools, dedicated teachers, and ensuring students have the resources they need to succeed.
“I will work with educators, parents, and community leaders to ensure that every voice is heard and every concern is met with action,” she said.
Criticizing the city’s financial strategy, Agneta pointed to what she called “outdated funding methods,” citing a reliance on state aid and tax revenue surpluses, often referred to as “Free Cash.”
“It’s not a plan, it’s a patch job,” she said.
She vowed to strengthen the local economy through collaboration and responsible planning.
“Together, we will create a stronger, more resilient local economy,” she said. “As your mayor, I will lead with integrity, open the doors to City Hall, and bring transparency to every process. Government should not be a mystery. You deserve to know not just what your government is doing but why it is doing it.”
Calling this a moment that demands “new thinking and bold ideas,” Agneta said her approach would be rooted in collective problem-solving.
“I will bring a fresh energy and real solutions rooted in collaboration,” she said. “This campaign is not about politics — it is about progress. It is about trust and building opportunities. With your support, we will do both. Let’s build a better future together.”
She added that she has a strong concentration on building revenue. She said she would like to create a revitalization plan for downtown and Centennial Park.
“I also want to create a real plan for the Rousselot property, or work hard finding a buyer that will fit in that location. The revenue loss from Rousselot is a major loss to this city and needs to be replaced,” she said.
Agneta will host a campaign fundraiser on July 18 at Metro Bowl from 6 to 9 p.m. A $25 donation includes pizza and cosmic bowling.
Agneta previously challenged incumbent Mayor Ted Bettencourt in 2023, receiving 1,129 votes to Bettencourt’s 6,017.
“I want to make a difference. I believe I can, and I believe it starts with the transparency of the city,” she said.
