
Platform
Click here to check out the October 16th forum hosted by the Salem Chamber of Commerce and the Salem News.
Click here to watch the September 6th forum hosted by the League of Women Voters-Salem, Latino Leadership Coalition and the Salem Gazette.
Click here to check out my Rainbow Times interview to learn more about my vision for Salem.
Economic Development
The cost of housing in Salem, as in many cities and towns, has become increasingly unattainable for too many. Young people working two jobs while going to school, seniors and veterans on a fixed income, people with disabilities, and many others are at risk of not being able to stay in their homes. We need more affordable housing for our low and middle income community members. We are also in urgent need of housing for our homeless community. As your City Councillor, I will fight to create more permanent, supportive housing to help homeless individuals achieve independence and stability. I had the honor of touring a new development for this purpose on Boston Street last November with 26 units of permanent housing which was the result of the City of Salem working with Harborlight Community Partners and other agencies. It was impressive, and I will push for similar housing options to be initiated.
Health/Quality of Life
Supporting programs and initiatives that improve the health and well-being of our Salem residents is a top priority. I will advocate for additional funds to support programs at our Community Life Center that serve our senior community members' needs. I am a volunteer for several food insecurity services and the Backpack Program in our schools, and will push for continued support of these programs. I will work to increase services tailored to underserved communities such as LGBTQ people, veterans, immigrants, and seniors.
Especially here in New England, it is critical to maintain a strong, resilient infrastructure. As your City Councillor, I will focus on the quality, integrity, and maintenance of our parks, public spaces, sidewalks and streets. I will work with the Traffic and Parking Commission to implement their ideas/initiatives, without unnecessary processing delays in the City Council. I will push for new and existing buildings to maintain the highest "green" standard possible. In December 2018, Salem received a "Leading by Example" award for clean energy and sustainability leadership. I will work with the Sustainability, Energy and Resiliency Committee, SAFE, and the Conservation Commission, to proudly continue Salem's commitment to coastal resiliency, and to reducing the environmental impact associated with municipal operations.
Historic Preservation and Thoughtful Development
Of all there is to appreciate and treasure here in Salem, our extraordinary history is at the top of my list. I will focus on maintaining the beauty and integrity of our historical buildings and structures, and will seek out and welcome the input and advice from our city boards/committees and community members to make that happen. I will work with the Salem Redevelopment Authority, the Community Preservation Committee, the Historical Commission, Historic Salem Inc, and the Dept of Planning and Community Development to ensure every effort is made to keep our rich history intact for many generations to come.
I look forward to earning the opportunity to be your City Councillor and working as a team on our City Council with our city boards/commissions and our community members!