PRIORITIES
Improving Traffic Flow
Traffic is a big problem – unpredictable travel times make it difficult and frustrating to get around town for work, school, and daily activities. Further, we lack transit to provide effective alternatives. But just because traffic is a difficult problem, doesn’t mean we should shy away from practical ways to address congestion.
On Council supported neighborhood-led traffic calming, advocated for the traffic signal at Providence Point, and fought to double investments in safe, walkable neighborhoods. I also championed our Metro Flex program to provide on-demand transit shuttles around town.
As Mayor, I will:
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Implement smart traffic signals to improve flow.
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Work with King County to improve southbound road and transit options.
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Bolster smart growth policies that reduce traffic congestion while enhancing public transit options and prioritizing local residents.
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Explore funding opportunities to connect Issaquah’s neighborhoods with safe, accessible pathways for walking and biking.
Protecting Our Environment & Climate
As a steward of Issaquah’s natural beauty, I am deeply committed to combating climate change while fostering sustainable growth. We have to protect the environment and improve eco-friendly connectivity, which will benefit residents, businesses, and the broader region.
On Council I’ve worked to create our first Environmental Board and help implement the Issaquah Climate Action Plan, while celebrating the preservation of green spaces and our beautiful hillsides.
As Mayor, I will:
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Expand green space preservation initiatives to balance urban growth with environmental protection.
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Advocate for the use of Climate Commitment Act funds to support battery power to make our city more resilient.
- Utilize the Issaquah Climate Action Plan to identify efficient ways to reduce our city's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
- Promote sustainable building practices through incentives for energy-efficient developments and walkable neighborhoods.
Delivering Public Safety
Issaquah residents must not only be safe, but feel safe too. By focusing on property crimes and retail shoplifting, I’m proud of the work we did to improve law enforcement, reduce crime, and address root causes.
On Council I’ve worked to re-build our police department, grow our Behavioral Health team to respond to crisis situations, and support our Community Court program to combat the "revolving door" on the criminal justice system.
As Mayor, I will:
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Expand community policing initiatives to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and residents.
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Advocate for increased funding for first responders, including mental health professionals and social workers to bolster crisis response.
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Prioritize emergency preparedness to ensure our community is ready for disasters and can rebound quickly.
Improving Housing Affordability
Issaquah has the most expensive rents across King County. This is a significant challenge for the 23,000 people who work in the city but cannot afford to live here, as well as longtime residents struggling or priced out of their homes. Whether it is seniors’ inability to downsize or a young person priced out of their hometown, the cost of living is a crisis we must address.
On Council I’ve been a strong advocate for affordable housing, from my support of 155 affordable units near transit, to our rewrite of the land use code to spur lower cost development.
As Mayor, I will:
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Push for developers to prioritize affordable and workforce housing in new projects.
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Work to streamline permitting and cut red tape, a key cost driving up the cost of housing.
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Advocate for increased funding for regional and city-led housing programs, especially those supporting low-income families and seniors.
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Support middle housing to create vibrant neighborhoods and housing choices.
Supporting Small Businesses
As a small business owner myself, I know the difficulties of running a business and I understand they are the backbone of Issaquah’s local economy. I am committed to continuing to build a vibrant business environment where local entrepreneurs can succeed.
On Council I have advocated for fiscal responsibility with a balanced budget that addresses community needs, streamline permitting processes that help small businesses open and expand more efficiently, and support COVID-19 recovery initiatives, including grants and resources for struggling businesses.
As Mayor, I will:
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Partner with the Chamber of Commerce to provide new resources for local business owners, including training and funding opportunities.
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Partner with the Downtown Issaquah Association to revitalize downtown Issaquah with investments in infrastructure, events, and tourism to drive foot traffic.
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Champion policies that foster economic diversification while preserving Issaquah’s unique character.
Ensuring Fiscal Responsibility
We must strive to make the most efficient and effective fiscal decisions on behalf of local taxpayers. Our budget is a reflection of community priorities and I am willing to make the hard choices to ensure we are able to deliver on our promises and provide the essential services our residents and businesses rely on.
On Council I have taken a thoughtful approach to budgets and spending, with a willingness to reassess programs based on community feedback and resource availability.
As Mayor, I will:
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Promote transparency in our financial decision-making.
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Present a balanced budget that utilizes community feedback to prioritize services for residents.
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Modernize payments systems, including online payments for business & occupation taxes.
