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. This log is a transparent record of my engagements to ensure accountability and keep you informed about my efforts and initiatives.
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.
Fourteen Council Meetings
Two Board of Abatement Meetings
Two Board of Civil Authority Meetings
Five Special Sessions
Twelve Community Engagement Events
Engagements
City Council Meeting
May 12, 2025
City Hall
Green Up Day 2025
May 3, 2025
Barlow School
City Council Meeting
April 14, 2025
City Hall
City Council Meeting
March 10, 2025
City Hall
HPC Candidate Interview
February 27, 2025
City Hall
City Council Meeting
January 13, 2025
City Hall
Finance Committee Meeting – FY26 Planning
January 7, 2025
Other
DAB Candidate Interview
December 10, 2024
City Council Meeting
December 9, 2024
City Hall
Board of Abatement Hearing
November 19, 2024
City Hall
City Council Meeting
November 18, 2024
City Hall
Walking Wednesdays: A Step Toward Health, Safety, and Community
October 30, 2024
Other
Social Feed
I'm hoping to combine my passion for photography with community to raise some money to support the American Cancer Society, will you help me too?
The City plans to close Lemnah Drive to through-traffic on Wednesday, October 1st. The City stormwater project will be digging across the street in front of the northern driveway for 5 Lemnah Drive. This closure is anticipated for one day only.
Anyone accessing 1 through 4 Lemnah Drive and the parking alongside 5 Lemnah Drive will need to enter and exit from the Lower Welden Street end. Anyone accessing 6 Lemnah Drive or the parking in front of 5 Lemnah Drive will need to enter and exit from the Nason Street end.
Please direct all questions and comments to Chip Sawyer at (802) 524-1500 ext. 259 or c.sawyer@stalbansvt.com. Thank you.
Here in St. Albans, we have always been at our best when we look out for one another as neighbors. I encourage everyone to pause before posting online and ask: “Would I say this face-to-face, in public, with the same words?” If not, it may be worth rethinking.
We can disagree, we can share concerns, and we can push for change—but let’s do it in a way that strengthens, not frays, the fabric of our community. Especially in a time when national politics often feels divisive, we can choose to model a better way forward locally: one rooted in respect, kindness, and constructive dialogue.
And remember, if you have a concern, your councilors want to hear from you. Speak up at meetings, send us an email, or give us a call. Change happens through conversation, not complaints left to float around on Facebook.
Let’s keep St. Albans a place where neighborliness leads the way.
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.