Restoring Public Trust

There has been a breakdown in trust between City Council and citizens, between Council and public servants, and even between police and citizens. Citizens will be able to count on my integrity and me keeping my word.  I will hold frequent neighborhood meetings and “bike abouts” to hear directly from citizens between elections.  By bringing specific policies to address economic development and public safety, I’ll get us all rowing in the same direction again. I am committed to developing a strong working relationship with whomever Columbus decides to elect as the next mayor and other members of Council. I will show respect to our public servants, while holding them accountable for performance.  I’ll promote opportunities for us all to put down our phones, get outdoors, and chat with each other again. 

Public Safety

Citizens in all neighborhoods of Columbus deserve to feel safe. I’m committed to a holistic approach on public safety that lifts people up, so they don’t turn to crime in the first place.  Community policing initiatives can build trust between police and citizens by providing officers with the resources they need to get out of the car and get to know the neighborhoods. Trained mental health professionals and de-escalators can help respond to mental health crises, which takes a weight off of officers and provides support for individuals who need it. When it comes to public safety, I truly believe that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. 

Affordability

I want everyone in Columbus to be able to afford housing, groceries, and utilities. Proactive zoning, which allows for smaller houses and lots, can put housing costs more within reach of young families’ budgets. Cutting red tape on green grocers can allow fresh, local, and affordable food vendors to thrive, ending food deserts in Columbus. Finally, renewable energy like rooftop solar, better insulation, and net metering can bring down the costs of utility bills. Renewable energy is not only better for the environment, it is also easier on pocketbooks.

Sustained Economic Growth

Economic development is more than jobs and tax revenue. Economic development should enrich the lives of citizens and showcase their talents. We should grow our tax base through a well-earned reputation of being a city where young professionals and families want to live. I have a two-part approach to sustained economic growth. First, I would support enterprise funds that provide local entrepreneurs and small businesses with the support they need to get started and stay afloat. Next, I would build relationships with companies around the world to bring high-paying jobs home. As someone who worked for two ambassadors, I have the experience to develop these vital economic relationships. 

Moratorium on the Data Center

When I say that I will listen to the voters, I truly mean it. One recent example is the data center. I have listened carefully to citizens’ concerns about Project Ruby.  I share the concerns on the project’s potential impact on the environment, utility bills, and quality of life for nearby neighbors. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what I think; it should be about what the people want. I have called for a moratorium and a scientific poll to see how the voters truly feel on this issue. Whether it be data centers, public safety initiatives, or any other matter, voters can count on me to represent their voice on Columbus City Council. 

Quality of Life

We all share the same wish: a long life filled with health and happiness. Some areas - called “Blue Zones” - are known for their long lifespans. I have studied these areas, and I will work to turn Columbus into a Blue Zone. This means fresh produce within a 15 minute walk of all neighborhoods, public squares and green communal grocers that get us outdoors and walking, and small restaurants and services in every part of Columbus —especially south and east Columbus.