Building a city infrastructure that can handle the capacity of a growing Missoula is critical and paramount for City Council. I believe it is worth investing in alternative forms of transportation.. Missoula has a decent mix of alternative transportation methods, and I would like to further develop these methods. Creating and expanding trails and bike lanes is a great way to help reduce congestion. It is important we examine ways to best increase bus service in the city. The City of Missoula needs to seriously explore the possibility of a light rail system for our changing community. While accomplishing these goals, it is vital we provide a safe and efficient driving environment for Missoulians, and make sure everyone (not only drivers) understands proper road etiquette.

How we manage growth will determine the long term outlook of our valley, and how our community moves forward. Missoulians can pride themselves on the fact it is only a quick trip up to the Rattlesnake Wilderness Area, and we are able to throw a line in any of the three great rivers running through our city in just a few minutes time. The question for City Council is how best to provide for our changing community. Policy work like the Urban Fringe Development Area (UFDA), and the city zoning rewrite are steps in the right direction to further efforts toward sustainably shaping change.Also, river access is important as development spreads by our famous rivers. City trails near our rivers provide not only alternative methods to get to work, but also access to our public resources.

The paper mill where I work, Smurfit-Stone Container, has undergone many tough changes this past year. As President of United Steelworkers Local 885, I field calls from concerned union members every day. I understand the responsibility of what serving as an elected official entails. The most important aspect of my job is taking input from the union membership and making myself available to people. I promise to take the same approach if able to serve on City Council. Additionally, I have already heard from many in the community that the city needs to foster better communications with its citizens. I will do everything I can do assist in engaging in civil discourse within our community.

Ward 2 is the center of growth and change in Missoula. A walk around the Westside will show new development right next to homes that have been in the valley for over a century. A short drive past Reserve Street and new housing abounds. Finally, in Grant Creek the wildland-urban interface demonstrates the great diversity that presents itself in Missoula and in Ward 2.

City Council needs to continue concentrating on the delicate balance between growth and change in Missoula. In a quickly expanding Missoula, it is essential our council helps foster opportunities for families developing their properties, and also helps facilitate first-time home buyers looking to find an affordable home. City Council needs to do all it can to further multiple options for residents in their housing needs.

Montana’s agricultural history is a critical component of what makes Missoula a great place to live. I believe the community supports the retention of farmland around the Missoula area, and encourages the importance and positive influence of local food growth in a community. A stroll down to the Farmers’ Markets on any given Saturday exemplifies the support the community gives its farmers. The city should attend to the need for agricultural lands in order to maintain balance between agriculture and development.