
Other Things I Care About
Streets - I'm bummed that the Streets Initiative 2 didn't pass. The City didn't do a great job at explaining that it was a renewal of an existing tax that is expiring at the end of the year. I will collaborate with the Public Works Department to identify grants and other ways that the City can find funding to improve our streets, especially on the South End and Eastside.
Public Safety - We all deserve to feel safe in our neighborhoods. I wish I had more faith in our police department; the lack of transparency regarding the Police Chief's departure and subsequent $500k payout is frustrating. No one needs that much money, especially someone who had been placed on administrative leave.
Childcare - My family's childcare costs for the last 12 months were over $20,000.
Affordable Housing - I spent many years being homeless when I was growing up. I know firsthand how difficult it is to get find stable housing. There are many systematic failures that lead to a shortage of affordable housing. How do we teach developers to not be greedy? I'm not sure. I support ideas like social housing and rental assistance.
Library - The libraries should be open on Sundays. If we can get the budget in check, this can be a reality.