As a current board member my main focus has been related to our Land Use and Transportation issues as the committee chair. When I first volunteered for the position 2 years ago, I knew it would be challenging, but I had no idea how complex the moving parts could be. Urban Planning is the ‘sports team’ of Portland, with each person choosing a side and fighting hard. I’ve poured through literally thousands of pages of codes and projects to bring the key issues forward to our neighbors. Drafted letters to council to shift the dialog towards positive change. Worked with developers to change the size and shape of their buildings to better fit the area. Helped families and business owners with questions about their projects. Facilitated calm and engaged discussion on highly-charged topics, that gave everyone in attendance an opportunity to have a voice. Created detailed and accessible reports on new developments in the neighborhood.

If elected to the board for another term I’d like to focus on 3 things:

1. Continue using my skills as a professional facilitator to break down the complex city issues into digestible and Richmond-specific information
2. Hold productive meetings to create positive movement on upcoming big-picture land use and transportation projects
3. Reform our rulesets to allow for more-productive and collaborative meetings

There’s a lot happening in Portland, and a lot happening in our neighborhood. I’d like to work to help make sure that what does happen is the best it can be for all involved.