Why I’m Running for City Council
Bellingham is at a crossroads. We face an escalating housing crisis, rising costs that threaten to displace our neighbors, and challenges in ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunity. I have dedicated my life to building community, advocating for fair policies, and ensuring that every voice—especially those most often unheard—is represented in our city’s decisions.
With my experience in process improvement, change management, and community advocacy, I know how to navigate complex systems, bring people together, and push for solutions that work. I’m running for City Council to ensure that Bellingham remains a livable, inclusive, and forward-thinking city where everyone has a place to call home, can earn a living wage, and can thrive in a safe and sustainable environment.
1. Housing Affordability & Tenant Protections
Bellingham’s housing crisis is pushing families, workers, and vulnerable residents out of their homes. I will advocate for policies that ensure truly affordable housing—especially for those making 0-80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). My priorities include: *Expanding tenant protections to prevent unjust evictions, rent gouging and obstacles or barriers to safe affordable housing. *Improving the Rental Registry and Safety Program to ensure that rentals meet habitability requirements and community members have safe places to call home. *Encouraging mixed-income housing development and inclusionary zoning. *Prioritizing funding for deeply affordable and supportive housing. *Creating programs that improve Tenant/Landlord relationships.
2. Homelessness & Supportive Services
I have been advocating for solutions like Build for Zero, which focus on data-driven, coordinated efforts to reduce homelessness. As a City Council member, I will: *Push for more low-barrier shelter and transitional housing options. *Support safe parking programs for those living in vehicles. *Expand partnerships with local nonprofits and county services to improve mental health and addiction treatment. *Ensure city resources are directed toward permanent housing solutions, not just temporary fixes.
3. Responsible Growth & Planning
As a housing advocate, SBNA President and MNAC Representative, I’ve already been involved in shaping Bellingham’s future growth. My priorities include: *Ensuring development aligns with smart growth principles and protects our environment. *Strengthening public input in land-use decisions, so communities have a voice in development. *Encouraging mixed-use urban villages that balance housing, business, and green space. *Advocating for infrastructure improvements that match the city’s growth.
4. Public Safety & Alternative Crisis Response
Having served as a volunteer firefighter/EMT and a safety officer, I understand the importance of public safety. My approach includes: *Expanding alternative crisis response teams to handle mental health and substance use emergencies. *Increasing funding for firefighters and first responders to keep pace with population growth. *Improving emergency planning and disaster response coordination. *Addressing crime through a prevention-based approach, including housing stability and youth programs. *Addressing public safety includes taking steps to reduce gun violence through common-sense gun laws and ensuring firearms are used and stored responsibly.
5. Economic Justice & Workforce Development
Bellingham needs more living-wage jobs and pathways for workers to thrive. My focus includes: *Expanding job training programs in partnership with local schools and unions. *Supporting small businesses and cooperatives as key drivers of economic resilience. *Advocating for a just transition to green jobs as the local economy evolves. *Ensuring city policies promote economic equity and opportunity for all residents.
6. Environmental Protection & Water Quality
As someone who has fought to protect Lake Whatcom and other local resources, I will: *Strengthen protections for our drinking water and reduce pollution threats. *Advocate for sustainable land-use policies that prevent environmental degradation. *Support green infrastructure and climate resilience initiatives. *Promote responsible forestry and watershed management to safeguard natural habitats.
7. Government Accountability & Community Engagement
As a lifelong community organizer and advocate, I will work to make City Hall more accessible and responsive by: *Increasing transparency in city decision-making processes. *Strengthening public participation in council meetings and planning decisions. *Ensuring policies are data-driven and equitably enforced. *Holding city leaders accountable for following through on commitments. *Highlight transparency and public input around policies related to gun safety.