Policy Approach

I exercise a “yes, and…” approach to legislative action.

Every city is a dynamic, living ecosystem. The problems one part of the city faces are often the result of larger systemic failures. In Cincinnati, we are experiencing rapid growth and expansion. Therefore, it is incumbent on us to welcome the opportunities new growth brings, and ensure this growth is equitable and does not leave folks behind. We have to walk and chew gum at the same time.

Fundamentally, I am a progressive pragmatist. My office does what we can, with what we have, while continuing to push the boundaries for what is possible. We use creative, collaborative problem-solving to imagine Cincinnati’s potential, then roll up our sleeves, and do the tough work it takes to get there.

Our Core Tenets

We believe in centering and amplifying traditionally marginalized stories. From sponsoring legislation that will help 40 units of permanent supportive housing be constructed, to hosting Pride and Transgender Day of Visibility at City Hall, to recognizing key community leaders in City Hall – my office has and will continue to seek out the expertise of people who are closest to the issues and challenges we are working to solve.

We believe in power belonging to the People. Being an elected official is an awesome responsibility, and my number one responsibility is to those who entrusted me to represent their interests. My office is committed to exceptional responsiveness to constituent concern; effective partnerships with community groups and leaders; and, ensuring that the areas Cincinnatians interact with their government the most (such as core services) are accessible, well-funded, and reliable.

We believe in the power of art and expression. In difficult economic times, arts are often the first thing to get cut in municipal budgets and forgotten. As a retired professional dancer, I know the harm this can cause to communities. In my time on Council, we’ve kept the arts as a priority funding item, financing Black and Brown Artist grants in partnership with ArtsWave, and fortifying the eligibility for arts organizations in the city of Cincinnati’s new “Boots on the Ground Fund” (designed for small organizations to pursue city funding). I also believe in using my platform to center young artists, volunteering to choreograph a dance recital at the School for Creative and Performing Arts (SCPA).

This campaign and our work are rooted in hope. I love this city deeply and believe in its future. When I moved here, Cincinnati welcomed me with open arms and provided me with opportunities and experiences to fill a lifetime. My vision is to spread this love; to use my position on City Council to connect ALL Cincinnatians with the resources they need to be successful, and to feel like Cincinnati is home. I have championed this through unwavering advocacy for housing for all incomes, and by cementing inclusivity at the foundation of our city’s story (eg. by updating the city’s nondiscrimination ordinance to expand legal protections for our LGBTQ+ community). When we open our hearts to new neighbors, stories like mine can come to life.

Our policy approach is always in flux. It is rooted in our core values, but it is intentionally responsive to changes in our community. We plan to expand our approach in the years to come and unpack the most pressing issues facing Cincinnati today, tomorrow, and beyond.

We can. We must. We will.