Main Street

I would like to see Main Street grow to be the beating heart of Laurel, full of shops, offices, and urban living. I will help grow and expand our business and grow their opportunities.

Main Street is marginally pedestrian friendly, with sidewalk areas that narrow around trees and utility poles. I will work to help Main Street evolve into a more pedestrian and business friendly amenity for Laurel. This could include improving curb appeal; expanding sidewalks; adding outdoor seating & dining space; and environmentally focused plantings.

Sustainability

As the world around us changes, we must change with it. This includes the expansion and implementation of sustainable initiatives. I will work to gain widespread adoption of the City’s Organic Recycling Program and help educate the community on its benefits.

I'll work with the City Council to provide incentives for new developments to adopt sustainable practices like permeable pavers, rainwater harvesting, rain gardens, pollinator gardens, green roofs, and more. I will also work to encourage and incentivize these practices for older commercial buildings and private residences; and to get them implemented on city properties and parks.

Parks and Recreation

Our City parks are one of the best amenities and most valuable resources in our community. During the COVID-19 pandemic these have turned into a precious resource for all of us to escape to for fresh air and relaxation.

I believe our parks should remain a priority for the City of Laurel and will encourage additional investment into their upkeep and ongoing improvement.

I will also work to increase outreach to local and regional community groups, businesses, and event coordinators to use our many parks for activities and events that are designed for citizens of all ages to enjoy, including music, arts, and educational experiences.

Fiscal Responsibility

I believe in fiscal responsibility and want to ensure that Laurel’s tax dollars are not wasted and that the City gets an appropriate return on its investments.

This does not always mean awarding contracts to the lowest bidder or cutting programs that we enjoy — it means thorough reviews of all budgeted expenses and ensuring that investments are made that provide the best value, biggest returns, and lowest total cost of ownership.

Diversity & Inclusion

I believe in equal rights and protections for people of all races, genders, beliefs, sexual orientations, and ages.

As part of the City Council, I will work to increase diversification and representation on the Council and in the City’s workforce.

I will also encourage and promote increased diversity and inclusion training for all City employees including the Police Department.

Economy

Our existence as a community started with The Mill and the economy it brought with it. Today, Laurel remains a strong location for businesses of all types due to our strategic location in central Maryland.

I will work to ensure that Laurel remains business friendly and encourages new small businesses to grow and thrive here through incentives, development programs, and outreach.