My Plan for Concord
Concord stands at a critical moment. We can allow challenges to grow, or we can choose action, fairness, and opportunity for all. My priorities are rooted in the belief that leadership is service, not titles, and that the city belongs to everyone who calls it home. My platform is built around practical, achievable policies that create real change, strengthen our community, and ensure every resident has the chance to thrive.
1. Affordable Housing and Inclusive Neighborhoods
Housing costs in Concord continue to rise, leaving working families, young people, and seniors struggling. Refugees, immigrants, and low-income residents face additional barriers to stable housing. When people cannot find safe and affordable homes, it affects every aspect of their lives: education, employment, health, and community engagement.
My Approach:
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Expand partnerships with developers, nonprofits, and community organizations to create more affordable housing units.
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Protect renters from sudden evictions and support fair lease agreements.
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Encourage mixed-income housing developments that foster diverse, resilient neighborhoods.
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Support transitional housing programs for families moving out of crisis, ensuring stability during difficult times.
Affordable housing is not only about homes, it is about creating neighborhoods where people can build their lives, raise families, and invest in their communities. By addressing housing challenges, we lay the foundation for a stronger, more connected city.
2. Economic Opportunity for All
Many Concord families work hard but still struggle to make progress. While the city’s economy grows, opportunities are not always shared equally, leaving some residents behind.
My Approach:
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Provide micro-grants and mentorship programs for small businesses and youth entrepreneurs to build local wealth and innovation.
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Expand job training programs through partnerships between schools, businesses, and city initiatives, ensuring residents acquire skills for in-demand jobs.
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Address barriers like childcare and transportation that prevent families from fully participating in the workforce.
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Prioritize local workers and businesses in city contracts to strengthen Concord’s economy from within.
Economic opportunity is the engine of community stability and growth. When people have access to jobs, training, and resources, families prosper, and neighborhoods thrive.
3. Education and Youth Engagement
Our youth are our future, but too many young people lack access to mentorship, after-school programs, and leadership opportunities. Disconnection at a young age can have lifelong consequences, not just for the individual but for the entire community.
My Approach:
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Expand after-school and recreation programs to provide safe spaces for young people.
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Establish a Youth Advisory Council that works directly with the City Council to ensure youth voices are heard in decision-making.
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Increase mental health support in schools and community programs, helping students and families cope with stress and challenges.
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Create safe and inclusive public spaces where young people can learn, play, and develop their leadership skills.
Investing in youth is investing in the future of Concord. Engaged, supported, and empowered young people are the foundation of a thriving, resilient city.
4. Transportation and Accessibility
Limited public transportation leaves seniors, workers, and families disconnected from jobs, schools, and essential services. Lack of safe sidewalks, bike lanes, and accessible routes further isolates parts of the community.
My Approach:
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Expand bus routes and service hours to connect neighborhoods and increase mobility for all residents.
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Improve sidewalks, bike lanes, and crosswalks to make streets safer for pedestrians and cyclists.
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Partner with ride-share programs and other innovative transportation options for underserved areas.
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Ensure city planning actively involves those who rely on public transport, so solutions reflect real needs.
By moving within the city, we make it safer and more accessible, increasing opportunities for work, education, and civic engagement.
5. Building a Welcoming and United City
Concord is diverse, yet not all residents feel fully included. Language, cultural differences, and historic inequalities can create barriers to participation in civic life.
My Approach:
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Launch a Welcoming Concord Initiative to celebrate diversity and provide translation and civic resources.
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Train city staff and boards in equity and inclusion, ensuring every decision considers the needs of all residents.
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Support local organizations that bridge neighborhoods, foster cultural understanding, and connect residents.
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Promote storytelling and cultural projects that highlight Concord’s many histories and experiences.
Inclusion is not optional; it is essential to building trust and collaboration. A city that welcomes every resident creates stronger communities and a shared sense of belonging.
6. Safety Through Opportunity and Resources
Safety is not only the absence of crime; it is the presence of opportunity. True safety comes when people, especially young people, have access to programs, mentorship, and resources that allow them to thrive.
My Approach:
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Invest in youth programs, arts, sports, and initiatives that provide positive pathways and prevent engagement in negative activities.
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Expand mentorship and community centers where young people can connect with role models and build life skills.
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Strengthen mental health and family support services to provide guidance and early intervention before crises occur.
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Improve neighborhoods with safe streets, well-lit areas, and accessible public spaces for families and community gatherings.
Safety is more than policing; it is empowering residents with resources, opportunity, and community support. By investing in people, we create stronger, safer, and more connected neighborhoods.
All of these priorities reflect a simple truth: real change happens when people come together with purpose and care for one another. Concord can be a city where housing is secure, opportunities are open to all, young people are empowered, transportation connects everyone, diversity is honored, and every resident has the chance to thrive. This is a commitment to our neighbors, a promise that by working together with integrity, service, and shared responsibility, we can create a community where every person has the opportunity to succeed.