On the Issues

Engagement/partnerships

I have spent my career working in fields that require partnerships and working collaboratively. Finding common ground is something I have done and will continue to do as an alder. I am dedicated to creating a safer community through proactive education, empowerment, and strong community connections. By collaborating, we will develop practical, community-driven solutions to tackle the social issues that impact all of us.

Housing

District 18 is unique in that it is nearly all residential. We have done housing well here– and have set a blueprint for other areas in the city. Being housed and/or obtaining permanent housing is a part of violence prevention, and yet has been made difficult to attain or impossible to attain for some of our residents. Citywide, our process in creating and maintaining housing hasn’t always worked well, and we need to be innovative and act quickly. The best way to do this is to see where communities have had success. I believe that we cannot just “check boxes” and say that we’ve done enough for future residents. The good news is, there are some neighborhoods who have gotten in right, and we have a lot to learn from them.

Here on the northside and elsewhere, I’m aware that many neighbors are concerned about being taxed out of their homes. I have great respect for our established neighborhoods, and keeping them affordable. I am also mindful of the disparities in paths to homeownership for black, brown and indigenous communities, and will support and prioritize programs that make this possible.