Priorities
Homelessness and Violence
Millions of dollars have been spent via one-year funds. This will not solve the problem. We need to work with community-based organizations and the county to maximize the use of resources(i.e braided funding) and implement evidence-based strategies and collaboration to address the root causes of both homelessness and violence.
Business
Our downtown is already great, but it has the potential to be extraordinary. Riverfront park is a beautiful venue for events during the spring and summer and the city could do more to attract more lucrative acts which would also provide a boost to the city's revenue. We need to attract more businesses as they leave Portland for safer locales.
Salem's Budget
With multiple options provided the payroll tax was a failure before residents voted it down. There are alternative options available, however the city’s expenses also need to be assessed as both revenue and expenses are important. Residents shouldn’t continue to lose services that will cause inequities to persist. We also need to adequately staff our protective services as spending millions in overtime is not sustainable.
Eliminating Division, Fostering Unity
City council represents the residents of Salem. As your councilor I will represent you, your neighbors, and our businesses. With the current council there have been times when residents voices are blatantly ignored.
Support Opportunities for the Next Generation
There are disparities throughout Salem with our high-school outcomes and graduation rates. The Career Technical Education Center (CTEC) has provided alternative pathways that provide various certifications and trade skills upon graduation. The City of Salem could also provide internships in the summer when students are looking for real-world experience in areas that interest them.
