Issues
Priority Issues
There are many issues facing our community, but as your representative, I have identified several key priorities that I believe require immediate attention
01
Fair & accurate property taxes
Property taxes should be grounded in fairness and accuracy. When assessments are outdated or inconsistent, families end up carrying more than their share. I believe in a clear, transparent review process that gives residents an honest chance to challenge their bills — without endless red tape. Accurate valuations protect homeowners, strengthen trust and keep our neighborhoods stable. We can fund essential city services while treating every household with the same fairness and respect, no matter where they live or how long they’ve been here.
02
Stronger voice, stronger community
The best decisions start with listening. While not every matter can go to a citywide vote, residents should have real opportunities to weigh in before major choices are made. That means open forums, accessible surveys and outreach that reaches every corner of our community— not just those who already have a seat at the table. When leadership listens first, we make decisions that reflect our shared priorities, avoid costly missteps and build the trust that keeps a community united for the long term.
03
Growing business, growing opportunity
A thriving local economy starts with welcoming and supporting small businesses. By offering smart, time-limited tax incentives to new businesses that commit to hiring locally, we can create more jobs and keep more money circulating in our own neighborhoods. This isn’t about giving handouts — it’s about creating a climate where entrepreneurs choose our city as the place to launch and grow. Quality economic growth benefits everyone when we invest in businesses that are invested in us, making our community more vibrant and resilient.
04
Safe neighborhoods, strong trust
Every resident deserves to feel safe at home, at work and in our neighborhoods. That starts with reducing crime through smart, targeted strategies that address both immediate concerns and long-term prevention. Quick, reliable emergency response times are just as important — when someone calls for help, they shouldn’t have to wait and wonder. We also need a strong partnership between the community and law enforcement, built on open communication and mutual respect. When trust grows, cooperation follows and together we create a safer, stronger city for everyone.
Goals
To accomplish what I have envisioned for our city, I have identified and outlined specific objectives and actions:
Lower taxes through smart revenue growth and cost control
Plan to lower taxes: make up for revenue loss by exploring new revenue sources, adjusting spending, continuing to support and advocate for a strong tax base as I always have, which may at times require tools to incentivize investments. Collaborate with governments of nearby municipalities to foster cost saving partnerships.
Build trust with open forums and active citizen engagement
Stronger Voice, Stronger Community: Holding community town halls, pre-ballot discussions and weigh-ins plus other outreach tools are just a few of the ways I plan to strengthen community trust. Providing multiple avenues of communication for all citizens to share opinions on sensitive issues and concerns. Priortizing citizens, local businesses and community first.
Attract and retain business with thoughtful incentives
Quality Economic Growth: I support an economic development growth strategy that includes growing and attracting new business by providing incentives to companies. Specifically, industrial facilities tax exemptions and tax increment finance. I would also work to encourage /retain local businesses.
Safer streets through prevention, enforcement and community trust
Public Safety: I aim to reduce crimes through prevention, enforcement and rehabilitation so that Portage citizens feel secure, collaborate with business owners, neighborhood watch groups and faith based organizations. I will promote community-policing that would include police liaison, foot and bike patrols and monthly police forums to address citizens' concerns.