Issues
I am committed to addressing key issues that impact our community, including housing, healthcare, transportation, climate action, infrastructure, public safety, and fiscal accountability. My dedication to these areas is driven by a desire to create a more equitable, sustainable, and thriving community for all of Albany's residents.
Housing
I am a strong advocate for actions that create and preserve housing, support tenants, and encourage strong partnerships between tenants and housing providers.
The Bay Area is suffering from an unprecedented lack of housing affecting people across all income levels, especially those with low or no income, and Albany is no exception.
I am proud of the work that began during my previous terms on the City Council (2014-2022) creating programs and policies that recognized the ongoing needs of our community members, including those sometimes overlooked. I am committed to advancing this work through the implementation of the current Housing Element and its supporting programs, drawing from my experience to lead this critical endeavor.
I am pleased to announce that the Satellite Affordable Housing (SAHA) project, located at Cleveland and Washington is scheduled to open in the fall. This 61-unit development will serve families and individuals with incomes ranging from 20 – 60% average median income for Alameda County (AMI) More details about Abany Family Housing can be found on SAHA’s website: Albany Family Housing | SAHA (sahahomes.org).
I have been privileged to represent Albany on the Alameda County Housing Authority (HACA) https://haca.net since 2019 serving as Chair for 2 years. I hosted several workshops for Albany property owners to educate them about various programs offered by HACA. I am particularly proud that the SAHA project will have five project-based vouchers, ensuring ongoing HACA support regardless of tenant mobility as the rental assistance is attached to the unit and not to a specific tenant.
I am also serving on the board of directors of East Bay Housing Organizations, working to ensure everyone in the East Bay has a safe and affordable home.
Climate Action
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Albany has developed a reputation as a strong local leader on environmental issues. During my tenure as Vice Mayor, I was proud to cast my vote to approve Albany’s Climate Action and Adaption Plan in 2019. Building on the foundation laid by the initial Climate Action Plan, the new goals are ambitious and inspiring, including a 70% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035, and achieving carbon neutrality by 2045.
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I supported joining Ava Energy (formally East Bay Community Energy) as one of the founding cities in the Joint Powers Authority and voted to approve the 100% renewable energy service for our entire community, demonstrating our commitment to sustainable practices.
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I believe climate action policies must prioritize environmental justice. It is critical to provide all of our community members with access to opportunities for reducing their carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emission. Providing ongoing education on adopting a more sustainable lifestyle is fundamental to achieving environmental justice for every member of our community.
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I have a strong record of supporting climate action initiatives. As a member of Climate Mayors, I participated in monthly webinars with Mayors from across the country seeking solutions to the global climate crisis. I brought Resolution 2017-48 to the City Council adopting and supporting the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement.
Fiscal Accountability
Although budget deficits have been predicted for the past several years without materializing, rising costs and revenue constraints suggest this projection may soon become a reality. I am prepared to engage in difficult conversations with the community to develop a balanced budget that prioritizes essential services and aligns with Albany’s values.
Healthcare
With the potential closure of Alta Bates Hospital and the ongoing reduction of services provided at the Ashby Campus, Albany and the wider region face a crisis in healthcare. I previously represented Albany on the Save Alta Bates Task Force, collaborating with local and regional elected officials and community leaders to prevent the closure and to explore alternative regional health care solutions.
I believe Albany should continue working to keep Alta Bates open at the current site, while also taking a leading role in exploring all options for creating a full-service acute care hospital in our area.
Transportation
Albany is a wonderfully walkable and bikeable city and I support using this lens to develop policy. During my tenure on the Traffic and Safety Commission (now Transportation) I supported safety measures around schools and throughout the community, contributing to the development of policies focused on traffic calming.
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Sidewalks across Albany have become safer and easier to travel for all regardless of mode of transport or ability. I am grateful to the voters of Albany for approving the “sidewalk tax” in 2016 and endorse its renewal to ensure sidewalk improvements will continue.
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Transportation issues intersect significantly with housing and economic development concerns. It is crucial to craft policies that recognize the diverse interests and needs of community members, ensuring inclusivity for families, workers, seniors, and individuals with different abilities. My experience on the Traffic and Safety Commission and involvement with multiple housing organizations have prepared me to lead in this effort.
Infrastructure
One of the core responsibilities of local government is to ensure our streets and sewers are functional and well maintained. While the Pavement Condition Index throughout Albany is currently below our desired level, I believe implementation of our thoughtful and comprehensive plan, including partnering with local utilities, will remedy this situation and improve our streets.
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The City has made significant progress in implementing the 2014 Sewer Consent Decree and it is crucial to maintain this momentum.
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I actively participated in the street lighting workshop and believe we must develop a comprehensive program to improve street lighting throughout Albany. While full implementation will take time, we need to begin now to ensure safer and more accessible streets for all residents.
Public Safety
I believe disaster preparedness is a collaborative effort and a partnership between the City and the community. As a volunteer Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) instructor for several years, I worked closely with CERT members and the Albany Fire Department to enhance training and readiness.
Additionally, I actively participated in the Disaster Prep Working Group, collaborating with both city staff and the Albany community to bolster our preparedness.
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I have served as a block captain, joining with neighbors to enhance neighborhood safety. Since the inaugural National Night Out event in 2007, I have been an active participant, strengthening communication and trust between city staff and our community members.
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I currently serve on the Policing Commission, working to foster a strong partnership between the Albany community and the police department.