Peter Whelan is dedicated to representing all Portsmouth residents . This council has raised the Budget by 26% in their four year term.Creating much hardship for Portsmouth residents in terms of taxes and fees . This translates into affordability issues for all residents ! I will ask the hard questions on the Budget and represent all residents in an open and honest way ,no more 30 plus nonpublic meetings . Joining me in my efforts to make Portsmouth a great place to live

My career began after college with a corporate position at Norton Simon / Hunt-Wesson
Foods in New York City as an Area Manager. I later worked for Exxon Corporation in the
marine tanker division with Butterworth Systems, focusing on sales and marketing
internationally. My next step was with PepsiCo/Frito-Lay, overseeing business operations
across New York and New England and managing hundreds of employees. My professional
background also includes sales, marketing, and labor union negotiations and I eventually
moved into corporate turnarounds in the high-tech industry before retiring.

Currently, I own Shoals Fly Fishing and Light Tackle, a charter fishing business based here in
Portsmouth. I am a licensed Coast Guard Captain and Registered Maine Guide. I am also a
gubernatorial appointee representing New Hampshire on the New England Fisheries
Management Council—a federal fisheries organization. I serve on the New Hampshire
Marine Fisheries Advisory Committee, vice-chair of the Atlantic States Striped Bass Advisory
Board, and I am currently a board member and former president of the Coastal
Conservation Association of New Hampshire. I also serve on the board of the American
Saltwater Guides Association . As a former member of the Portsmouth City Council, I chaired
the Parking, Traffic, and Safety Committee and served on the Portsmouth Planning Board.
My involvement with fisheries management and conservation has taught me the
importance of stewardship and long-term planning, principles I will apply to civic decision-
making as well. I believe that balanced policies and inclusive discussions strengthen our city
and safeguard its unique character for future generations. It is this perspective, shaped by
both professional experience and personal investment in Portsmouth, that drives my desire
to serve in Portsmouth.

My experience in resource management has helped build partnerships focused on
sustainability and public interest. I will work to support thoughtful development, small
businesses, and environmental initiatives, with the goal of keeping Portsmouth vibrant and
inclusive. This practical, stewardship-driven perspective informs my vision for the city’s
future.

As a candidate, I bring not only a record of leadership and collaboration but also a
willingness to challenge the status quo and engage with tough issues. I understand that true
progress means listening to a diverse range of voices, weighing options carefully, and making choices that reflect both the values and needs of our community.