BACKGROUND: What motivated you to run for City Council, and what unique skills or experience make you the best candidate for the role?

I moved to JV in 2007. After it flooded, I wanted to help. As a Board-Certified business attorney (35 years), every day I help my clients solve their problems. We live in a great city, but we face challenges: Needed infrastructure improvements; Maintaining the City’s exceptional police, fire, and EMS; Providing residents with the most desired community amenities; Pursuing a measured approach to spending and borrowing, to avoid burdening taxpayers. I can work with Council to solve these issues.

ISSUES: What are the two most pressing issues you plan to address as a City Council Member, and what specific strategies will you use to solve them?

After the $10.1mm pool bond failed, the City demolished the old pool. The overwhelming majority of residents desperately want a pool. It’s an amenity every city should have. Council must start over, sharpen its pencil, determine how to spend less, but make that happen asap. Similarly, it must prioritize the Capital Improvement Plan, earmarking funds for critical infrastructure and improvements (roads, water/sewer, municipal facilities). All of this must be done with a measured approach.

FUTURE: What is your vision for the city in 10 years, and what steps will you take to achieve it?

A sustainable, vibrant community with significant economic activity contributing to the tax base, so the City can provide amenities without unduly burdening residential taxpayers. To improve the City, we must coordinate many moving parts: Utilize a comprehensive CIP to consistently maintain and replace critical infrastructure: Preserve our City's safety (the primary reason people move here); Pursue development initiatives / cut red tape - compelling reasons for business to locate in JV.

CIVIC ENGAGEMENT: How will you engage residents in the city's decision-making process?

I shall encourage meaningful and productive community engagement before decisions are made. Calls, texts, and emails are a good way for busy people to communicate, but nothing beats face-to-face conversation. I intend to routinely hold Town Hall Meetings (in person or by Zoom), to better understand residents’ priorities and concerns about current issues. I shall also be available to answer residents’ questions concerning the decision-making process, including the reasons for Council's decisions.

COMMUNITY: What are your favorite things about your city?

When we moved here, it was an easy choice. JV has a real "neighborhood" feel: Older homes, bigger lots, plenty of trees. You see neighbors walking their dogs, playing at the parks, or running through the City. There is a true sense of community. Over time, you understand why JV has become an intergenerational community. It's not just people who live here; it's entire families with loads of friends. And, we look out for each other. JV Senior Outreach is a prime example. JV is truly unique.