Issues and Policies
As a candidate for Onondaga County Legislator in District 9, I am committed to representing the full diversity of our community and ensuring that the challenges we face are addressed with meaningful advocacy, collaborative solutions, and active, accountable leadership. Here are some of the issues and policies I will champion in this role.
Economic Development
The Northside needs economic development that is planned and implemented responsibly. Such economic development must be planned with, and first-and-foremost for, the people who already call our community home. Too often, historically disinvested neighborhoods have seen decisions made about them rather than with them, resulting in growth that benefits outsiders while displacing longtime residents. As a legislator, I will champion policies and planning processes that center local voices, prioritize affordable housing, support small businesses, and ensure that job creation directly benefits residents. True progress means investing in people as much as in projects - building an economy rooted in equity, inclusion, and opportunity for those who have carried this community through decades of neglect. Read more about this issue here.
Transparency and Communication
Transparency in government is essential to building trust and ensuring that decision-making truly serves the people. When lawmakers are open and accountable about the choices they make, residents are better equipped to understand the issues, voice their concerns, and hold leaders responsible. Clear and consistent communication plays a key role in this process - it bridges the gap between government and community, empowers advocacy, and strengthens civic participation. By fostering open dialogue and accessible information, we create the foundation for meaningful representation where every resident has a voice in shaping the future of their community. As a legislator, I will host regular community listening and solution-seeking sessions to collaboratively develop policies and programs and meaningfully address the issues, and ensure our community voice is heard in key decisions.
Resource Access
Access to resources is a cornerstone of strong and equitable communities. For local communities to thrive, residents need essential services, healthy food, businesses, and opportunities within close proximity, creating vibrant neighborhoods where people can live, work, and support one another. At the same time, reliable and affordable transportation connectivity is critical to linking communities to employment hubs, educational opportunities, healthcare, and everyday necessities. When people can easily reach jobs and services - whether by walking, biking, public transit, or other modes - they are better positioned to build stability and prosperity. Prioritizing both local access and regional connectivity ensures that economic growth is inclusive, sustainable, and truly benefits the people it is meant to serve, and will be a key issue for me as your legislator.
A Safe and Welcoming Community
Syracuse must be a safe and welcoming community where every resident - regardless of background or immigration status - can live without fear. Ensuring true safety means not only protecting people from crime, but also safeguarding them from invasions of privacy, discriminatory practices, and non-criminal arrests by ICE that destabilize families and neighborhoods. When residents trust that their rights are respected, they are more likely to participate fully in civic life, access vital services, and contribute to the shared prosperity of our city. Building this culture of safety and inclusion is essential to honoring the dignity of all who call Syracuse home.