Five priorities. Steady, experienced leadership for District 2.
Residents deserve a transparent, disciplined, and sustainable city budget. I will push for clear financial reporting and long-term planning that prepares Monterey for economic downturns without sudden tax increases or service cuts. Every city department should have clear goals and measurable results. Taxpayer dollars should be tied to performance, not simply last year's spending.
Too many Monterey residents are struggling with the rising cost of living. Young families, working professionals, seniors on fixed incomes, and essential workers are finding it increasingly difficult to stay in the community they love. I support practical solutions that increase housing opportunities, encourage workforce housing, streamline responsible development, and help local businesses thrive. Our goal should be simple: ensure that the people who work in Monterey can also afford to live in Monterey.
Safe neighborhoods and thriving businesses go hand in hand. We must continue investing in public safety, emergency preparedness, and neighborhood services.
Monterey's character did not happen by accident. It has been shaped by thoughtful decisions over time and deserves the same care going forward. We need to protect our neighborhoods, historic downtown, small businesses, and quality of life through practical, common-sense leadership. Quality of life depends on the everyday services residents rely on — clean streets, safe parks, reliable infrastructure, and responsive city departments. I will prioritize street conditions, sidewalk safety, park maintenance, and fire-safe underbrush management. Most importantly, I will ensure that District 2 voices are heard before decisions are made, not after.
District 2 thrives when local businesses, restaurants, and the hospitality industry can grow. I will work to streamline permitting, reduce unnecessary delays, and support an environment where entrepreneurs can invest with confidence—while protecting working waterfront jobs and the fishing community at the wharf.
Monterey's structural budget deficit requires disciplined leadership and a practical long-term plan. We must start by identifying efficiencies in city operations, controlling spending, and ensuring every public dollar is used responsibly. I want to help balance the budget in a way that protects core services and remains completely transparent with residents about the choices ahead.
NCIP brings hotel tax dollars back into our neighborhoods to fund sidewalks, streets, parks, and lighting. I will ensure these decisions stay focused on quality-of-life projects and are made with strong community input and full transparency.