A Few Priorities

Affordable Housing: Attainable and innovative solutions to provide quality living spaces

I am passionate about opening pathways for home ownership. Whether it’s a studio apartment, multi-generational living, or shared spaces, a home is a basic need.  Our community lacks affordable housing, and I will make it a high priority to work in City government to help meet housing needs. New voices on the Council can identify innovative, realistic solutions. For example, the City has been working on the "Nordic cottages” project for 3-4 years, but even when this worthy undertaking is completed, it will only house a few residents. As Poulsbo’s population changes (and ages), seniors in their family houses are increasingly looking for smaller places to live: let’s make that possible!

Cultural Diversity & Economic Development: Celebrating our diversity while fostering economic vitality

There’s an opportunity to capitalize on Poulsbo’s diversity by promoting awareness and educating others to counter bias and racism.  I can envision an annual Multicultural Fair in Poulsbo. Celebrating the Scandinavian, Latinx, Indigenous, and other cultures, groups will showcase our love for community. A multicultural fair would be an opportunity to bring vendors, food trucks, artisans, and entrepreneurs together sharing their skills, services, and products bringing economic dollars to the community.

Countering Racism: Modeling positive leadership while addressing systemic barriers and racism

Government must speak up against systemic racism. As leaders, we need to deal with racism in our schools, government, and community by having difficult conversations and taking action. Many Poulsbo residents don’t even know about this dangerous undercurrent (which unfortunately has been spreading throughout our nation) that even exists in our schools with bullying and discrimination. We need to pinpoint accountability and implement training to cultivate and foster much-needed change. 

Youth Engagement: Provide leadership opportunities and experiences for our youth

Fostering youth engagement is a worthwhile investment. An internship in my own early adulthood was the foundation of my career path.  There is opportunity for the City of Poulsbo to partner with organizations, businesses, and stakeholders to mentor and guide youth to develop workplace readiness and skills.  I would like to work to provide pathways for youth to experience reality-based learning and develop leadership skills.

Safety: Advocating for safety in our homes and public spaces

Most of us stay aware of illegal and unwanted activity in our community and neighborhoods.  Some people have life challenges that can lead to unsafe, unwise behaviors and choices.  The daunting opioid and fentanyl crises give rise to crime and strain our emergency and medical services. I hope to work with City government to identify realistic solutions to address public safety through programs and services for ongoing challenges and unexpected emergencies.

Bike Lanes: Providing bike routes and lanes while maintaining environment and safety

I am not an avid cyclist; however, I do enjoy my eBike!  As this passion is new to me, I’m embarrassed how unaware I’ve been regarding Poulsbo's limited bike routes and lanes. We should expand bike lanes over the next two to four years, while remaining responsible about impacts of doing so in environmentally sensitive areas.