Why are you running for Councillor and what particular skills can you bring to the position?
As a voice and leader for many years I have not only been exposed to the many issues and difficulties our city has faced, but also helped organize and strategize many successful initiatives and plans of actions. I have been, and continue to be, totally committed to improving the quality of life for everyone in Salem and wish only to contnue that commitment.
Residents are facing housing instability and displacement. Do you have specific plans that would protect renters in the city?
A specific plan should be a team effort developed by a committed City Council working together to address the obstacles in each and every ward, and developing a course of action to attain equitable fair housing for our residents.
Salem is already seeing the effects of the climate crisis, including flooding during storms and high tides. Focusing on what you would do, what are your top priorities to mitigate the climate crisis?
We are a coastal community that must take seriously what our experts are predicting and our responsibility is to insure we are prepared to address these concerns to our coastlines, our infrastructure, and our future developments.
Salem strives to be a diverse, equitable, and inclusive city. What have you done to lead on these ideals and how will you support work in this area?
As a police officer in charge of Hate Crimes Investigations, and a charter member of Salem’s No Place for Hate Committee, I have experienced the ugly side of this issue and have been committed to making this community safe and welcoming to all. I was sworn to uphold our Constitution which guarantees our equality, and as a City Councillor will passionately continue to fight any discrimination..
On average, 30% of Salem residents voted in the past municipal elections. Please outline some ideas you have that can enhance voter engagement and elections.
I am still reeling from the fact that the last election turned out only 28% of our voters. This is not representative of the Salem I grew up in, which took a passionate interest in local politics, and a much higher voter turnout. We have to address the reason for this new apathy, and as a council be more accessible, engaging, transparent, and come up with progressive ideas to reignite the interest of our residents.