EMPOWERED AND TRANSFORMATIVE COMMUNITIES

I have learned that a transformative community is not tied to any particular person or goal. We must move forward at the speed of those prioritizing our community's potential for change rather than those who resist it. I am committed to creating continuous opportunities for community engagement that encourage informed citizenship and amplify the voices of the community.

AFFORDABLE AND ACCESSIBLE HOUSING

I grew up at the margin of poverty and experienced housing insecurity at various points during my childhood. While these experiences alone do not define me, they have helped shape my perspective and how I experience the world, my community, and my place in it.

Home is where you can afford it, and the need for affordable housing has never been greater. Low and middle-class earners are being priced out and displaced due to the prioritization of luxury housing developments and the absence of regulations on short-term rentals such as Airbnb and VRBO.

I will always advocate for policies and actions that create affordable housing options for residents in Reno, regardless of their budget. I will prioritize development that supports responsible renovation and restoration projects, future development that maximizes the use of underdeveloped properties, and the adoption of ordinances that allow homeowners to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on their properties for personal use. This will ensure that every generation can live and thrive in Reno.

  • Prioritize affordable housing including new development, rent caps, and fee limitations

  • Counter urban sprawl with infill that maximizes the use of underdeveloped properties

  • Invest in sustainable infrastructure projects that accommodate growth

  • Encourage responsible renovation and restoration

COMMUNITY CARE & SUSTAINABLE SAFETY NETS

We often underestimate how much we have in common with our struggling neighbors. The truth is, many seniors and working-class families in Reno are just one medical emergency or missed paycheck away from losing their homes.

As a council member, I plan to focus on investing in underserved communities, with a particular emphasis on the well-being of our unsheltered neighbors, seniors, and low-income families. While homelessness is a complex issue, we can no longer afford to treat this vulnerable community as an afterthought. Currently, mutual aid groups are relied upon as a safety net to provide resources that address food insecurity, clothing, shelter, and daily care items. This is not enough. It is the duty of City Council to provide better resources and funding to help mitigate this issue.

To achieve this, we need to lower barriers that prevent people from accessing vital services such as community shelters and transitional housing. Additionally, we must establish a winter preparedness plan that increases the number of warming centers during variable winter weather. By doing so, we can help alleviate the suffering of those who are most vulnerable in our community.

  • Prioritize and center the well-being of underserved communities

  • Protect vulnerable populations from housing instability, homelessness, and discrimination

  • Increase access to vital services for the unsheltered, seniors, and low-income families

  • Establish a winter preparedness plan

  • Co-create pathways of representation and communication between municipal leadership and indigenous, immigrant, and communities of color

ACCESS TO EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

As a member of Reno City Council, it will be my priority to address the disparities in access to affordable and available preschool and childcare options within Reno. High-quality childcare is essential as it allows more parents and caregivers to enter and stay in the workforce, which in turn, drives the economy. However, with childcare providers nearing capacity due to Reno's growing population, we are facing a crisis where the number of licensed childcare providers in Washoe County has decreased by 33 percent over the past decade.

As a parent and educator, I understand that equitable and sustainable learning environments are essential for the success of our future generations. Therefore, I will support every effort to keep childcare options accessible, affordable, and abundant for Reno families.

  • Address zoning roadblocks

  • Eliminate barriers that increase overhead operating costs

  • Keep childcare options accessible, affordable, and abundant for Reno families

MAINTAINING VIBRANT COMMUNITIES

As residents of Northern Nevada and Reno, we understand that our quality of life relies heavily on safeguarding and preserving our natural environment, wildlife habitats, and scenic views.

Being a scientist and ecological advocate, I am deeply committed to promoting green initiatives, sustainability, and healthy choices. I will always support initiatives that encourage pedestrian access to natural environments, protect open spaces, ensure ample park spaces, conserve water, and keep our river clean.

  • Promote green initiatives, safe communities, and healthy choices

  • Public transportation, bicycle-friendly roadways, and walkable spaces

  • Sustainable funding for parks and recreational services

  • Protect open lands, conserve water, preserve natural habitats, and keep our river clean