SAINT ALBANS CITY, WARD 5 ALDERMAN
Erik Johnson
Dedication to our Community
Dedicated to serving our vibrant community, I am committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and thriving environment for all residents. Listening to the diverse voices within our community is essential as we address local concerns, improve public services, and champion sustainable development. My focus is on ensuring that our ward remains a great place to live, work, and grow, where every individual feels valued and at home. I look forward to collaborating with all of you to make our neighborhood the best it can be.
Commitment to Listening
Listening to our community is fundamental to my role as an alderman. It’s vital that I hear from all residents, not just those who voted for me. Each voice matters, and every perspective contributes to a richer understanding of our community’s needs and goals.
As a community leader in an area where diverse backgrounds are underrepresented, I recognize that I may not face the same challenges as many in our community, particularly those from underserved backgrounds. It’s essential to acknowledge the unique struggles they encounter and the perspectives that may be overlooked in our discussions. I am committed to listening to and learning from these voices to better understand how we can effectively serve everyone in our community. By fostering open dialogue and creating space for diverse viewpoints, I aim to promote a more inclusive environment that reflects the needs and experiences of all our residents.
Commitment to Community Safety
Ensuring the safety of our community is a top priority for me as an alderman. I believe that everyone deserves to feel secure and comfortable in their own neighborhoods. This commitment goes beyond just responding to incidents; it involves fostering a culture of respect, support, and collaboration among residents.
Creating a sense of belonging is essential for transforming our community into a true home for all. I am dedicated to working with law enforcement, local organizations, and residents to identify and address safety concerns while promoting programs that build trust and unity. Together, we can cultivate an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to the safety and well-being of our community.
Engagements & Activities
Since being elected as your councilor, I have been actively involved in various meetings, activities, and events to serve our community.
Types of Engagements
- Community Meetings: Gatherings with residents to discuss local issues, hear concerns, and share updates.
- Council Sessions: Formal meetings of the city council where municipal decisions are made and policies are discussed.
- Community Engagements: Interactions with community groups, schools, and businesses to foster relationships and support community initiatives.
- Special Projects: Initiatives and events aimed at addressing specific community needs or promoting certain causes.
- Public Forums and Workshops: Sessions open to the public to discuss issues, provide information, and gather feedback.
I am committed to remaining accessible and accountable to you, the residents of our community. Your feedback and participation are crucial to our collective success. Please feel free to reach out with any questions, concerns, or suggestions.
Social Feed
With Mayor Tim Smith announcing that he will be stepping down, our city is entering an important period of transition. I want to share my support for Trudy Cioffi in her candidacy for Mayor.
Trudy has served Ward 4 with dedication and thoughtfulness, and her work as both a councilor and community advocate has had a meaningful impact. She brings experience, strong leadership, and a clear commitment to the residents of St. Albans, qualities that position her well to help guide our city forward.
I also want to recognize Shannon Smith, who is running for the Ward 4 seat Trudy will be vacating. Stepping into public service is no small commitment, and I look forward to the perspective and energy she would bring to the council. Shannon has been instrumental in the Kingman festival, a downtown board member for some time, and is similarly passionate about our community & city.
My friend Elizabeth (Liz) Sato has put her name forward for the open Ward 3 seat following Marie Bessette’s retirement in 2025. Marie’s years of service have made a lasting difference in our community, and I’m confident Liz is prepared to serve Ward 3 with care and dedication. Liz is passionate about downtown businesses and making “the world a better place for our children and community”.
I’m grateful to everyone willing to step forward and serve. Strong local government depends on community members who are ready to contribute their time and leadership, and these moments of transition help ensure the continued strength of our city.
I’ve had the privilege of serving, with him, on the City Council for two years, and in that time I’ve learned a great deal from Tim. His dedication to our community and steady leadership have helped guide St. Albans through important moments and continued growth.
Public service requires time, energy, and sacrifice—not just from those who serve, but from their families as well. Tim’s commitment to this city has been clear, and I’m grateful for the example he’s set.
I wish him and his family all the best in whatever comes next. Thank you, Tim, for your years of service to St. Albans.
Age Well does great work helping older Vermonters stay independent, connected, and engaged right here in their communities. Their Community Meals aren’t just about a good lunch — they’re about getting out, seeing familiar faces, and feeling part of something.
If you’re 60+ and live in or around St. Albans (or if you know someone who is), this is absolutely worth checking out. A warm meal and good company can make a big difference this time of year. ❤️
Details and reservations are in the original post.
A warm meal and friendly faces can make all the difference.
Join us for an Age Well Community Meal and enjoy a chance to get out, connect with others, and feel part of your community.
We host Community Meals across Chittenden, Franklin, Addison, and Grand Isle Counties.
Who can attend?
Community Meals are open to anyone age 60+.
Age Well registration is required—forms are available at the meals.
$7 suggested donation
Check-in: 11:30am | Lunch served: 12:00pm
✅ Seats are limited
📅 Reservation required 1 week in advance
Find more details on our event calendar:
https://www.agewellvt.org/event
Please share this with someone who may enjoy joining us this winter.
This kind of excellence doesn’t just happen, it’s built by passionate people who believe in our community and make every meal an experience worth celebrating. Congratulations to all of you!
Commitment to Our Home
Fostering a strong and connected community is at the heart of my work as an alderman. I believe that a thriving neighborhood is built on collaboration and active engagement among residents. My commitment to our home goes beyond addressing immediate concerns; it involves participating in initiatives that enhance the well-being of our community. I am proud to have been involved with various groups dedicated to making our neighborhood a better place for everyone. This isn’t about bragging; it’s a reflection of my genuine passion for community and the positive impact we can achieve together.
Board of Civil Authority
Reviewed tax burdens and assessment requests, addressing the needs of our tax base to ensure fair and equitable taxation in the community.
Saint Albans Design Advisory Board
Collaborated with community members to review aesthetic changes in our historic and larger St. Albans area, promoting thoughtful design practices that maintain the beauty and value of our community.
Saint Albans for the Future - Downtown Board
As Vice Chair and Secretary & Treasurer I played a key role in enhancing downtown Saint Albans by overseeing financial operations, contributing to strategic planning and community engagement efforts, and supporting the economic growth and revitalization of our historic downtown district.
Emergency Medical Technician Volunteer
Provided critical emergency medical care and support to individuals in need, demonstrating commitment to public health and safety in the community.
Franklin County Young Professionals
Meet regularly to network and understand each other’s businesses in St. Albans and across Franklin County, focusing on how we can be responsible business owners and community leaders.
Boy Scouts of America, Eagle Scout
Achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, demonstrating leadership, commitment to community service, and the ability to complete a significant project that benefited the local community.
Franklin County Humane Society, Volunteer
Contributed time and effort to support the well-being of animals in need through various volunteer activities and community outreach initiatives.
Freemasons
Engaged in community service and personal development through fellowship and charitable initiatives, emphasizing moral values and community support.
BPOE Elks
Joined to stay connected with community needs and contribute to charitable activities and programs that foster goodwill and support local initiatives, while also focusing on my own personal betterment.