1. What is your vision for the economic development of your city?
Everyone wants the best for their city, and I would love to see Vancouver
thriving, however this is not a simple question.
I would like to see a living wage paid to every full time worker. The bigger
question is: HOW can this be done? I believe we are on the right track. Minimum
wage increases are creating better sources of income for many. This is just one
step for economic development.
It may be an unpopular opinion, but I do not support expansion of fossil fuels.
While things like pipelines and other expansion projects do support some
economic development in the short term, they are also doing it at a cost to our
environment. While there are no plans for pipelines in Vancouver, I will continue
to not support any plan or project that may have damaging effects on our
environment.
I am a huge advocate for the homeless. I create my own care packages with
basic essential items (toothbrush/paste, soap, deodorant, feminime hygiene,
water, and a few snacks) and hand them out anytime I drive by someone in
need. I know the problem runs much deeper than a one-time care package can
solve. I will always advocate for better mental health and addiction services.
Helping get to the root cause of anyone who is homeless will help them get back
on their feet and out into the workforce.
2. How would you engage local communities in city government?
Awareness. I cannot tell you how many times I have talked to my friends, family,
customers, or clients - and they are unaware of some of the issues we are facing.
Encouraging people to get involved, and vote - with the actual facts of the issue
would be my main goal.
3. What can the city do to better serve underrepresented populations?
Represent them! (That was the easy answer).
The goal would be to understand what or why they are currently unrepresented. I
would reach out, listen to them, and vote for a way that supports everyone.
When the fireworks ban was voted on, it was done quietly and without hearing
the opinion of the people. This vote was based solely on the personal options of
the elected. To me, being elected means I support and vote for the people, and
listen before I decide on what is fair and right.
4. How will you meaningfully include the voices of young people in the
political process during your campaign and while in office?
Young people are the way of the future. In less than 30 years, a vast majority of
the voting population will be Gen Y (Millennials) and Gen Z (Zoomers). As many
more young people become eligible to vote, I expect to see some dramatic
changes. I respect all opinions, however I feel that younger people are dismissed
too often, and I would like the opportunity to be a voice for them.
I would encourage young people to vote, and I would encourage them to stand
up for injustices. Most importantly, I would listen. I do not accept donations, and
cannot be bought for any cause.
I would consider myself “young”(Millennial), and I hope to see more young
people running for office in the future, regardless of the outcome of this election.
5. You may take this opportunity to provide a closing statement on why
you feel the Young Democrats of Clark County should support you.
I will always stand up for what is right and fair. I believe this is what the
Democratic party is about. I cannot be bought, and I will always support fair and
legal legislation. As I have stated numerous times, to the point of redundancy, I
will not vote based off my sole opinion. I believe as a representative, my job will
be to support the people, not my own agenda. I am willing to listen and learn
about other's points of view, and I will always do my research before voting on
any matter.
Thank you for reaching out, and taking your time to read this. I know other
candidates may have more experience and more wordy answers, but I speak
from the heart and what I truly feel is right.