We are in the midst of a global cost of living crisis. It is becoming more and more expensive to just maintain the same standard of living. This is especially difficult for young adults in todays economy. New Bern may not be able to change the world, but we can do our part to make sure our citizens know that our city is dedicated to not exacerbating this crisis.

HOW WE DO IT

• Streamline Rezoning Policies to save citizen's money & speed up development.

• Reforming Zoning and Permitting to allow young families to make New Bern home.

• Adopt a Zero-Base Budgeting System to ensure your money is wisely spent.

• Working with our community to increase the supply of quality affordable housing.

A government exists to protect the rights of its citizens and to serve the common good. But that only works if leaders are accessible and accountable. As your alderman, I will answer calls, show up to meetings, and do the work—not just hold the title. Let’s remove the barriers that keep citizens in the dark and make sure our government is truly working for the people. 

HOW WE DO IT

• I personally plan to posting a monthly update video that will quickly and accurately inform the public on all that our city is working on.

• Creating a yearly listening session in each of our 6 wards will allow us to hear the voices of all our citizens. 

New Bern has grown by over 8k new residents since 2000. As we look at the next 25 years, New Bern needs a comprehensive plan that will direct our efforts to build a prosperous and beautiful community. This includes working with federal, state, and county governments to begin creating plans for public transit, new transportation alternatives downtown. Let's work to expand that character throughout the entirety of our city. New Bern is more than just Downtown.

HOW WE DO IT

• Increasing mixed-use zoning.

• Strengthen the Redevelopment Commission.

• Eliminating local regulations that restrict the growth of business.

• Utilizing our federal "Opportunity Zone" designation to encourage business to start and relocate to New Bern.

• Work with Federal, State, and County government to begin developing a safe and affordable 10 year plan for public transportation.

New Bern has some of the best parks in Eastern North Carolina. What we lack is connectivity to these locations. My plan would better integrate our neighborhoods, our parks, and our local businesses. Bringing back local corner stores will work to strengthen that small town feel that makes our city so special.

HOW WE DO IT

• Develop Martin Marietta to expand its natural beauty and its accessibility.

• Increase walking and biking connectivity around our city.

• Integrate our existing neighborhoods with existing parks and city centers.

Tryon Palace, Christ Church, the Pepsi Store: these are land marks that make New Bern what it is. Let's work to ensure that these landmarks and the areas around them are properly maintained. But that is just a beginning. We need to not only preserve the old, but seek to create new landmarks that will continue our legacy.

HOW WE DO IT

• Create "Urban Village" zoning designation that will create downtown-like communities throughout our city. 

• Work with County, State, and Federal governments to ensure our local landmarks are protected and promoted.

• Promoting distinctive and beautiful styles of architecture, lighting, and aesthetic in our public buildings and spaces