The challenges and opportunities we face are too immense to not work together.  I hear politicians say things like we need to take the majority or let's take back our... fill in the blank.  This kind of language automatically pits us against each other and creates an us versus them mentality.  My platform is pretty simple, we achieve the most and make our city strong when we are all dialed in and stop looking at each other as enemies and instead like neighbors that care about our backyard. 

What we see happening in the world is by design.  The oligarchs who run the world are making us fight with each other over wedge issues to keep us angry with one another, this is all a distraction.  We can have disagreements about certain things but until we preserve our democracy and stop the dismantling of our economy then we cannot even begin to have discussions on those "wedge issues".  Let's not do the bidding for their class warfare by continuing to fight like enemies.  

I have the experience with 2 terms on city council and as mayor pro tem on what it means to be entrusted with the community's vote.  I was elected mayor pro tem by my peers because I get things done with collaboration.  Only babies, puppies and kittens get everything they want, compromise is necessary in a democracy.

Public safety is not just about police and fire, although they are the biggest piece to the puzzle.  It's also about investing in our blighted areas, giving people dignity and justice. 

• Making Thornton an employer of choice for first responders by giving good pay and benefits. 

• Continue investing in areas of need while creating safer spaces for people to enjoy and live. 

• Build community and police relationships to protect both.

Thornton has room to grow so we must be smart about development by including the community that is near a proposed project.  The voice of the community must drive the conversation but developers also need to be at the table because growth is inevitable so we should work together.  

• Clear and public involvement in all development.

• Use all funding and resources possible to influence the type of housing we desire.

• Streamline processes to encourage all types of development.

We need to attract good paying jobs so Thornton can be a great city to live, play and work.  Economic Development is vital to the success of our small and family owned businesses in the community.  The financial health of our city depends on our businesses thriving.

• Give Economic Development the tools and resources needed to meet the demands.

• Support small businesses with education about services the city offers.

• Being flexible on city codes and requirements if it makes sense.