Now, more than ever, we need thoughtful and informed leaders at the local level. As a nonprofit director and citizen activist, I have experience building coalitions and working with limited resources to accomplish meaningful reforms. We have incredible talent and expertise in our city staff and within our community; one of the responsibilities of City Council is to let this talent shine. As a political scientist and long-time volunteer on many boards and commissions, I know that we produce better policies and provide better services when we listen to the community. As a planning commissioner, every week I see the challenges our city faces when our zoning code is out of alignment with our plans and community values. As your City Council representative, I will listen and build consensus for important policy decisions.

Our City Council is dysfunctional. Infighting and showmanship are taking precedence over the important work of governing. Micromanagement of city staff is impacting workplace morale and increasing the cost of city projects. Poor decisions, such as firing our competent city administrator without cause, will cost the city hundreds of thousands dollars and deprive our community of skilled leadership during a time when it’s most needed. We deserve leaders who are up to the task of governing, embrace civility and professional conduct, and are receptive to new ideas. 

In 2020 we can bring a new tone and approach to City Council. We can have a Council that sets fiscally responsible and progressive policy by collaborating with city staff and residents to build an inclusive, safe, healthy, and equitable community now and for upcoming generations. As your City Council representative I will not simply claim to be progressive, I will act and vote progressively.

I am talking with residents, small business owners, nonprofit and government leaders, and community activists about our ideas, hopes, and concerns for our city. Please join me— share your thoughts, your expertise, and your financial support. I hope to earn your vote and serve you as City Council representative for the Fifth Ward in 2020.