Meet Ashley Pollock
Name: Ashley Renée Pollock
Occupation: College Administrator and Adjunct Professor
Education: High School Belleville West; Bachelor of Arts, History, McKendree University; Master of Arts in History, Harvard University
How long have you lived in Belleville, and what do you love most about our city? I was born and raised in Belleville. With the exception of 11 years when I lived in the Boston area, I have always lived in Belleville. I love the city spirit of Belleville. We have a sense of community woven into our identity. Belleville has a rich history, civic pride, excellent schools, and a “give back” mentality,
Living in Boston gave me perspective on what makes a city thrive. Walkability of a city is key. Availability of recreational activities, a variety of shopping and dining, educational opportunities, and safe outdoor spaces are just a few of the aspects that stand out.
How do you spend your free time when you're not working or volunteering?
Hanging out with my kiddo who’s seven. We love to garden together and just be in nature. Hiking, swimming, having a picnic, reading in the treehouse, or enjoying a playground. If not outside we will be inside probably crafting. I’m lucky she’s still at cuddle bug age, so we might just be relaxing watching a movie together. She’s in Girl Scouts and I enjoy helping with meetings and being with the other parents during events. If not with her, I’m probably reading.
How has being a parent influenced your perspective on local governance?
Emerson attended her first city commission meeting at 3 months old and she’s been with me along the way as I continued to volunteer for the city or political involvement. Throughout this campaign period, I’m sure I’ll feature her from time to time. As an educator, I’m always looking for the “teachable moments” and taking a kid along to the voting booth, or even knocking on doors to circulate petitions, you are showing them what being an engaged citizen looks like.
If you could have dinner with any historical figure from Belleville, who would it be and why?
Sophie Koerner. She and her husband, Gustav Koerner, were abolitionists and were close with Abraham Lincoln. Imagine the conversation! Read more about the restoration efforts of their historic home in Belleville here: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064710607546
What's your approach to community engagement and staying connected with residents? In addition to this website, I have a Facebook page, and an Instagram account and will post updates, ideas, and details of my platform regularly. I have a number of ways residents are welcome to be in contact with me including calling, email, or opportunities to meet. Communication is central to being an effective alderman. I look forward to hearing from constituents.
What's one interesting thing about you?
I have a cat that I rescued from in front of Fletcher’s West end location in 2013. At the time, he was about 6 weeks old and sick. He was hiding in a bush that has since been removed. I was headed in for dinner with friends when we heard the meowing. I lured him out and we’ve been best friends ever sense. His name is Fletcher.
How do you plan to engage with younger residents and encourage their participation in local government?
I am a huge proponent of participatory Democracy. I would be excited to to visit any of our four fab schools in Ward 5 talk to students about the role of an alderman, city council, and ways local government impacts their lives. Getting aldermen together to help with voter registration drive would be a smart way to engage students in government. Voter efficacy is a starting point.
