Civil Engagement

As a long-standing member of this community, I have dedicated hundreds—if not thousands—of hours to city council meetings, task forces, working groups, and other initiatives to improve our civic life. Over the past 15 years, I’ve been fortunate to have the flexibility and passion to consistently attend council meetings and speak on a wide range of issues that matter to our residents.

That is why I was deeply disheartened by the council’s recent decision to suspend meetings over the summer, especially in light of their request for increased compensation. Equally troubling is the decision to move public comment to a later point in the agenda, which creates unnecessary barriers for working families, students, and seniors who want to participate in local governance. The growing trend of reducing civic engagement, by holding fewer town halls, listening sessions, and public forums, sends the wrong message: that the convenience of elected officials is being prioritized over the voices of the people they serve.

As mayor, I would work to restore transparency, accessibility, and year-round civic engagement in our local government. I believe city council meetings should be structured around the needs of our residents, not the comfort or preferences of elected officials. I encourage robust public comment at the beginning of council meetings and ensure that our council maintains a consistent, year-round meeting schedule. Democracy doesn’t take the summer off, and neither should we.

In addition to restoring accessible meetings, I would champion programs that bring more people, especially younger generations, into the civic process. This includes expanding opportunities for citizens to serve on task forces, working groups, and participatory design initiatives. I envision launching a new civic engagement program for high school students that offers nonpartisan, hands-on learning experiences in city planning, governance, and public service. By planting the seeds of civic literacy early, we prepare the next generation to lead with knowledge and integrity.

Lastly, I would commit to hosting no fewer than two listening sessions per month, creating regular and open channels for residents to share concerns, offer ideas, and help shape our city’s future. Elected office is not about serving when it's convenient—it’s about showing up, listening, and acting in the public interest every single day.