1. In light of a recent federal executive order on homelessness that incentivizes local policies to ban outdoor camping and to require mental health and substance use treatment, how would you assess Salem’s responses to people experiencing homelessness, and what would you plan to do if elected?
When I took office in January 2024, one of the first issues I addressed was the homeless encampment along the South Harbor walkway. The living conditions were unsafe and unsanitary, there were reports of drug activity, human waste, and hypodermic needles scattered throughout the area. I supported the Public Camping Ordinance. It is consistent with the US Supreme Court ruling upholding local ordinances to regulate camping on public property. It was a necessary, first step to connect people with shelters and treatment programs. Leaving encampments unchecked does not help individuals in crisis – or protect the quality of life for residents and visitors. The impact goes beyond safety and sanitation. That said, I do not believe simply expanding the existing shelter is the solution. The current model is limited there is not enough staff, programming, or structure to effectively support individuals and their issues such as mental health, addiction, and employment. Ultimately, my goal is to strike a balance; ensure that our homeless residents receive the help they need and to protect the safety, health, and quality of all Salem residents.
2. Since the federal government has withdrawn its support for combating climate change, including eliminating tax credits for wind and solar energy and halting federal permits for wind power, what would you propose the city do to mitigate climate change and its effects locally?
Even as federal support for combatting climate change has been rolled back, Salem must continue to take local action. Rising sea levels, stronger storms, and extreme weather are already affecting us, and I’ve seen it firsthand. In 2018 my home was flooded by a northeaster. Since then, I’ve worked with the city, my neighborhood group, and agencies, including the Amy Corps of Engineers, Salem’s Department of Public Services, and our Engineering and Sustainability Departments to push forward the rebuilding of the Columbus Avenue seawall and advance other flood mitigation measures. Flooding is also a threat to other low-lying areas, such as Derby Street, and Bridge Street.
For seven years, we’ve worked together tirelessly on design, permitting, and solutions, because protecting our neighborhoods require persistence. In 2024 when the Juniper Beach seawall failed and caused severe damage to multiple homes, it showed again how urgent investment is in infrastructure.
Salem needs to prioritize repairing seawalls, storm drains and implementing measures-while also recommitting to citywide initiatives like recycling, tree planting, and maintenance of green spaces. These local actions won’t solve climate change on their own, but they will make our city safer, and more resilient.
3. With the loss of federal grants and funding for food pantries, and the closure of Daily Table, what ideas do you have for helping residents who are food insecure?
The closure of Daily Table is a real loss for our community, and it underscores how important it is to support residents facing food insecurity. I believe Salem must take a two-part approach: better connecting people to the resources that already exist and expanding access in new and creative ways.
We can start by making food pantries more accessible whether that’s expanding hours so working families can use them or improving outreach, so more residents know where to go for help. We should also explore new distribution models such as installing food lockers on city property -similar to Amazon lockers -where families can discreetly pick up prepackaged groceries using a secure code.
At the same time, we should continue to support programs that focus on education and sustainability. For example, Salem recently received a grant to partner with recycling works on food literacy programs in schools. Initiatives like this not only reduce waste but also teach our young people and families how to make the most of available resources.
Salem does a good job with the tools we have, but there’s always room for improvement. By expanding access, using creative distribution models, and getting the word out more effectively, we can build the strongest possible safety net for residents experiencing food insecurity.
4. Do you support or oppose the plans to build a new high school inSalem and the debt exclusion proposal to allow Salem to fund its share of the cost of the new school? Why or why not? What points would you make to communicate with Salem voters about this project?
I do not believe building a new high school is necessarily the right answer for Salem. What our students need most are stronger programs, not just a new building. We should be investing in preparatory classes for standardized tests, more guidance counselors, and expanded opportunities in arts, music, sports, and AP courses. These are the tools that truly prepare students for college and careers.
The Mayor will be presenting the proposed high school building project to the council in the coming weeks. I look forward to reviewing the proposal, particularly the projected cost, and whether the city's tax revenue can sustain them over the years. I am concerned that in our current economic climate, the project could end up costing far more than anticipated. I believe more explanation on the scope and cost of the project is essential for the community to make an informed decision.
I would rather invest in programs, teachers, and classroom resources, than in brick-and-mortar. That said, I will reserve final judgment until we see the Mayor’s proposal.
5. How do you plan to keep your constituents informed about policy issues before the City Council if you are elected?
Over the past year and a half in office I’ve learned that staying accessible to constituents is the most important part of the job. I make it a priority to answer and return phone calls and emails promptly, and I attend neighborhood meetings whenever possible to hear directly from residents.
I also use social media to share updates on policy issues, council meetings, and city initiatives. My goal is to provide clear, timely information, and be a resource for anyone who wants to understand what is happening at City Hall. Communication is a two-way street, and I am committed to listening, responding, and keeping the community informed about the issues that matter most to Salem residents.
I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to answer these questions and the thoughtful work you put into raising these issues. I look forward to continuing the conversation at the upcoming candidate's forum.