Issues

Over the past decade, Gig Harbor has undergone significant change, but in recent years, our challenges have shifted. While the city experienced rapid population growth between 2010 and 2020, we’re now navigating a new set of pressures: rising costs, tighter budgets, new state mandates, and declining State and Federal grant opportunities. These economic realities affect every aspect of city planning, from infrastructure to essential services. If elected, I will listen to the concerns of all Gig Harbor residents and business owners and work closely with fellow council members and city staff to find thoughtful, effective, and sustainable solutions that keep our community strong.

Environment

Caring for the environment is key to protecting everything we love about Gig Harbor, from our scenic shoreline to the fresh air, tree-lined streets, and urban forests that contribute to our community's character.

Keeping our ecosystems healthy and intact helps preserve the beauty and small-town charm that make this place so special.
Our environment is closely tied to our health, quality of life, and sense of community.
Trees and green spaces don’t just make our town beautiful, they clean our air, refill our aquifers, cool our neighborhoods, and support local wildlife. Nature provides us places to connect, relax, and recharge.

Public Safety

Public safety is a core part of what makes Gig Harbor a great place to live.

Even as a small town, we deserve a fully staffed police department that can respond quickly and effectively when we need them. Emergency responders should have the resources and training they need to keep every neighborhood safe.
Public safety also means having well-designed infrastructure that curbs speeding and lowers the risk of crashes, particularly deadly ones. Pedestrian fatalities have been steadily increasing across the U.S. over the past decade, and by improving our streets and crosswalks, we can better protect everyone: children, seniors, runners, and even pets.

Economy

Supporting local businesses and keeping Gig Harbor affordable for entrepreneurs is more important than ever. It’s heartbreaking to see beloved local shops close their doors as we navigate economic challenges.

We need to take an honest look at the challenges small businesses face and support initiatives that break down the barriers that hold them back from succeeding or even opening.
By listening to local business leaders and making practical changes, we can help our small businesses compete with big retailers.
These businesses aren’t just part of our economy; they’re a big part of what gives Gig Harbor its heart and character.

Housing

Protecting Gig Harbor’s small-town charm is important, and much of that character comes from its people. To keep our community as welcoming and vibrant as it has been for generations, we need to make sure there’s a place for those who live, work, and invest their hearts here.

Seniors should be able to stay near their loved ones, young people should have the chance to live where they grew up, and families deserve homes that truly fit their lives.
With thoughtful planning, we can keep Gig Harbor welcoming and livable for everyone.
Growth is a concern for many residents. We should ensure that we don’t stretch beyond what we can accommodate, economically and environmentally, while making room for those whose livelihoods keep Gig Harbor afloat.

Infrastructure

Managing traffic and maintaining infrastructure in Gig Harbor means being thoughtful and practical with how we invest in our town. It’s not just about adding new projects, it’s about taking care of what we already have. That means making sure roads and utilities continue to serve us well into the future, and advocating for more public transit.

Making smart, long-term decisions without placing more pressure on property taxes, which can be especially hard on residents with low or fixed incomes.
Investing in infrastructure that allows for pedestrians, bikers, and transit users to access businesses and parks.
By focusing on what’s needed and maintaining it wisely, we can keep Gig Harbor running smoothly while protecting what makes it a great place to live.

History and Culture

Recognizing and protecting Gig Harbor’s history and culture is essential to keeping our community grounded, vibrant, and connected.

From the sxʷəbabš (Swiftwater People) to the Croatian fishing families who helped shape our working waterfront, Gig Harbor’s story is rich and personal. Our traditions, local businesses, and scenery are what give our town its character and its soul.
Supporting projects and policies that honor our heritage, strengthen community ties, and keep the spirit of Gig Harbor alive for many years to come.
Our cultural identity isn’t just something to remember, it’s something to invest in and share. It brings us together and reminds us why this place is worth protecting.