Issues
A Safe and Healthy Yakima
Nothing is more important than the health and safety of the people who live in, and visit, our city! Ensuring we have clean air, healthy (and award-winning!) drinking water, a strong, fair, and capable police force, clean streets, parks and walkways, safe and well-maintained infrastructure, and an adequate firefighting presence, is of the utmost importance to all citizens.
Every Council vote I make that pertains to these topics is designed to ensure that we have the best outcomes possible for our taxpayers. You deserve to feel safe in your homes, and safe as you go about your day. This is my number one priority. I am also putting together a Block Watch meeting in my own neighborhood in June to help deter criminal activity and for neighbors to get to know each other better. I encourage everyone to work together to keep their neighborhood safe.
A Resilient Yakima
Like most cities, Yakima has its fair share of challenges, particularly those connected to substance use. I’ve lived in District 4 for close to 65 years, and unfortunately, Yakima has always been known for its high crime rate. That needs to change. We need a strong, concerted effort to fight drug trafficking and help those who will accept treatment for substance use disorders. We have a wonderful, collaborative group of service providers who are working on solutions. Collaboration is the key to moving forward, and Council should support those efforts by removing as many barriers as possible for those who are working so hard to improve the livability of this beautiful city.
A Thriving Yakima
Homelessness continues to be a front and center concern. It is a complicated issue that also requires collaboration among many groups if we are to address the myriad causes. I am heartened to learn that we will see more permanent supportive housing being offered. Housing the unhoused is, of course, the key to many of the issues. The supportive element is critical. If we can help our citizens who are most in need, we will see Yakima thrive through the ripple effect: a safer, more attractive place to live, work, and play. And we can focus our energy on creating a Yakima that lives up to its great potential.
An Engaged Yakima
Collaboration is so important for citizens to feel engaged. I encourage everyone to learn as much as they can about how the City works, and join committees, boards, attend Council meetings, and communicate with the Council when they have concerns or questions. I have always strived to be present and responsive. If I can help with an issue, I will do my best to solve it, or I will find someone who can. I am here to serve the people of Yakima, and I take that seriously!