Key Issues for Snoqualmie and
How I'll Lead Us Forward
Respect and Partnership with the Snoqualmie Tribe
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The Snoqualmie Tribe is a sovereign government, the largest employer in our city, and a vital cultural and environmental steward. Yet our current leadership has missed key opportunities to build a true partnership.
What I’ll Do:
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Build a formal government-to-government relationship rooted in respect and mutual benefit
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Collaborate on economic development, land use, and cultural preservation
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Partner on shared environmental stewardship of forests, rivers, and sacred spaces
Why Me:
I’ve worked directly with the Snoqualmie, Tulalip, and Lummi Nations. I understand the values, protocols, and trust-building that create lasting partnerships—not just transactions.
Celebrate Snoqualmie’s Cultures and Traditions
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We are more than one story—we are a city of many backgrounds, histories, and dreams. Celebrating who we are makes us stronger.
What I’ll Do:
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Partner with local groups and cultural leaders to host inclusive events and festival
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Support public art, music, and cultural programming that reflects our diversity and shared values
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Create spaces for belonging, storytelling, and pride—because culture is connection
Why Me:
I’ve built citywide programs that helped residents feel seen, celebrated, and proud to call their city home.
End Isolation — Build Strong Regional Partnerships
3
While neighboring cities like North Bend are advancing together, Snoqualmie has remained isolated—missing out on tourism, business, and shared planning opportunities.
What I’ll Do:
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Rejoin and re-energize the Snoqualmie Valley Economic Alliance
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Collaborate with North Bend and King County on tourism, housing, and economic strategies
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Represent Snoqualmie at regional decision-making tables where funding and future plans are shaped
Why Me:
I’ve co-led regional coalitions, secured over $250,000 in multi-agency grants, and know how to make collaboration work across city lines.
Public Safety with Accountability and Trust
4
Snoqualmie residents have raised concerns about public safety leadership, morale, and transparency. Everyone deserves to feel safe—and to trust those sworn to protect us.
What I’ll Do:
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Lead an independent review of police leadership, training, and community relations
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Establish clear standards of accountability and transparency
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Ensure that every resident—no matter where they live or who they are—feels safe, heard, and protected
Why Me:
I’ve served as a public safety liaison, led emergency response programs, and am FEMA-certified in disaster readiness and community coordination.
Fair Utility Rates and Budget Transparency
5
Recent utility rate hikes hit families hard—especially those on fixed incomes. Many residents felt left out of the conversation.
What I’ll Do:
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Create a transparent rate structure informed by community input
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Establish utility assistance programs for vulnerable residents
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Hold public budget forums and use performance-based budgeting so residents know where their money goes
Why Me:
I’ve managed $1.9 billion in city planning budgets and built systems that track every dollar, so the public can hold leaders accountable.
Smart Growth That Protects Our Environment
6
As our city grows, we must protect what makes Snoqualmie beautiful—our Falls, our forests, and our clean air. Climate resilience isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
What I’ll Do:
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Develop a climate-smart infrastructure plan to address wildfire, flood, and emergency risks
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Work with the Tribe and Green Snoqualmie on land and water conservation
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Balance responsible development with environmental preservation
Why Me:
I’ve led hazard mitigation planning, green infrastructure projects, and helped cities grow wisely—without losing their character.
Support for Schools, Families, and Youth
7
Education isn’t just a school district issue—it’s a community responsibility. Families across Snoqualmie want support, opportunity, and safe spaces for their kids.
What I’ll Do:
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Strengthen partnerships with the Snoqualmie Valley School District and early learning providers like Encompass
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Expand youth programs—including after school, leadership, and summer enrichment
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Celebrate academic excellence and ensure every student has a path to thrive
Why Me:
I’ve taught at every level, helped 82% of first-generation students succeed, and was named Professor of the Year at University of Washington.
Housing That Works for Everyone
Housing costs are rising—and many seniors, families, and first-time buyers are being priced out.
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What I’ll Do:
Lead community-driven housing planning to reflect local needs and prevent displacementExpand affordable, workforce, and senior housing optionsEnsure renters are protected, long-time residents can stay, and young families can build a future here
Why Me:
I led a housing engagement process with 200+ residents, resulting in 32 adopted policies to improve affordability and inclusion.
Grow the Local Economy with Equity and Vision
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From downtown merchants to Ridge entrepreneurs, Snoqualmie needs a local economy that lifts everyone.
What I’ll Do:
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Streamline permitting and business support services
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Champion small businesses, especially those owned by women, veterans, and people of color
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Recruit value-aligned employers that create jobs and contribute to our community
Why Me:
I’ve helped organizations grow by 40%, advised both startups and legacy firms, and built public–private partnerships that work.
Real Conversations, Real Representation
10
Too many residents feel disconnected from City Hall. That ends now.
What I’ll Do:
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Launch a Snoqualmie Community Advisory Council representing youth, seniors, renters, homeowners, business owners, and the Tribe
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Host accessible town halls in every neighborhood and in multiple languages
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Provide translation services and multilingual materials so every resident can participate fully
Why Me:
I’ve trained over 2,000 people in inclusive community engagement and turned resident voices into real policy change. I don’t just talk — I listen, then act.