Where I stand

I pledge to only support new taxes on Corvallis residents through a vote of the people. The biggest issue before Council is the structural gap between City revenues and projected spending, especially when it comes to funding the Police Station and City Hall. The current Council is considering payroll and/or income taxes to close the gap. City staff has presented a clear-eyed view of facility condition and future needs. New revenue streams could improve equity for taxpayers and reduce reliance on service fees. However, I’ve heard from Ward 7 voters that the City should do much more to live within its means and must cut costs before imposing any new taxes. Corvallis has a strong history of support for the City and City services; we must not take that support for granted.

I pledge to listen to local residents rather than decide for them. As the City conducts infrastructure maintenance and repaves City streets, there’s often an opportunity to reconsider traffic lanes, bicycle lanes, and parking. The current proposal to remove on-street parking on NW Garfield Avenue reflects this dynamic. Most residents on Garfield oppose this change. I believe that other tools are available to increase traffic and bicycle safety on Garfield without taking away parking for residents.

I pledge to focus my work as a City Councilor on local, City issues within the scope of Council authority. The Corvallis City Council and City government have plenty of work to do to serve City residents and make wise use of local taxes. The Council in particular must connect residents with the City Manager and staff on local issues within our authority. This is our work. There are of course many great national and international issues dividing Americans today. You and I as Corvallis residents care deeply about those issues and participate actively in the democratic process at the County, State, and national levels. We must not let those issues keep us from doing the work of City government. City Council positions are non-partisan. As a long-time civil servant, I believe in serving all residents and in uniting people and finding common ground.