Small Business and our Economy

• Reduce approval timelines for commercial renovations and building permits, while working toward a faster, more predictable engineering process

• Introduction of a vacancy levy on empty commercial space to encourage more opportunities for businesses, and lower lease rates.

• A refocusing and alignment of business advocacy groups, such as The Chamber of Commerce, and The Downtown Business Association, in conjunction with the city.

• Protect and strategically develop employment lands to create more local jobs, diversify Mission's tax base, and reduce pressure on residential taxpayers.

Small Businesses are the heart of our community. As a small business owner myself, I see the need for improvement in a few key areas.

Youth and Recreation

• Eliminate municipal field user fees for non-profit youth sports organizations.

• Pursue a made-for-Mission version of the Icelandic Prevention Model. By expanding access to sports and extracurricular activities, strengthening supports for parents and families, and reducing youth substance use through prevention rather than intervention.

• I would like to see the building of a new full-sized artificial turf field, a new grass field, and increased pool and ice facilities.

• The establishment of a local community stage and event space.

As a longtime coach, student, and athlete, I believe accessible, boundary-free programs for kids play a pivotal role in our community for generations to come.

Collaborative Community

• Increased transparency from the city regarding large financial decisions.

• Regular (A minimum of twice a year) outreach to business owners, non-profit groups, and the public for input on what needs aren’t being met and potential solutions.

• If Mission Bridgehead Investment Corporation is to remain, quarterly public financial reporting and meaningful disclosure should be a minimum requirement.

Good leadership means recognizing that no elected official has every answer. Mayor and Council should actively seek the experience, ideas, and criticism of the people who know our community best. Our residents, business owners, non-profits, and community organizations.