Building a Sustainable Economy

Many talented people have to leave Duluth to find jobs. I want to help reverse that trend. I’ve owned a small business here, helped develop the city’s land use plan, and I am experienced in environmental engineering, perspectives needed to guide the city toward innovative markets. We need to attract diverse businesses in new and growing sectors, including  technology, renewable energy, earth-friendly construction practices, and local food. This growth will require that we balance the work needed to update our infrastructure and build new housing, while protecting the green spaces that make our city special. 

Caring for Our 10,000 Acres of Green Space

Have you noticed how Duluthians name the neighborhood they live in by its park?  Vibrant city parks are key for healthy neighborhoods. I was disappointed when we lost our skating rink in District 2, which had been a wonderful place to connect with neighbors and a safe place for children to play. I’ve helped protect green spaces across the city, including building connections such as in the design and mapping of the Duluth section of the Superior Hiking Trail. As climate change impacts us more and more, these green spaces will prove even more essential as they naturally slow down and filter stormwater before it can overwhelm our sewer system and pollute our waterways.

Tackling Homelessness

Chronic homelessness in Duluth is a public health and safety crisis. I’m a volunteer with Chum and Stepping on Up, as they work to implement a plan to end unsheltered homelessness in the Duluth area. We are working to build shelters and transitional housing so we can reach our goals of providing safe and affordable housing to those suffering from trauma, economic crisis, mental health and substance abuse disorders. The city must continue to work closely with the county and nonprofits so that we are all tackling this issue together.

Preparing for Climate Change

Climate change is happening right here in our backyard, and we need to take steps to adapt. Our young people don’t want to wait: students are working to bring solar energy to their schools, and I’ve been supporting their efforts. My career has focused on climate adaptation, which requires working together to become more climate resilient. I will push our city to reduce its gas and fuel usage by adopting new renewable energy system markets, supporting the permitting requirements to connect solar and wind to the grid, and investing in electric city vehicles. 

Activating Our Volunteers

Right now, people are eager to make a difference in their community. There are plenty of needs across the city, from picking up trash to helping our senior citizens access grocery stores, but it can be difficult to find out how and where help is needed. I’ve volunteered with local nonprofits and worked for the city, and I’ve seen both the immense satisfaction in volunteering and the challenges the city has in coordinating volunteers. There is tremendous potential for a city-wide volunteer brigade, with opportunities for all ages. This is one area where spending a modest amount of city money could pay dividends for our communities.