Dutchess County Legislature District 18
How long have you been a Democrat?
I’ve been a Democrat since I first registered to vote in 1993. I missed voting for Bill Clinton, so my first election was the “Gingrich revolution” in the 1994 midterms.
What made you decide to run for office?
When I first ran for City Council in 2021, I was looking for a way to get involved in my community in a meaningful way. Now, four years later, I’m excited to expand my impact across more of the county while continuing to advocate for what Beaconites need.
What will be your priorities if you get elected?
Top of mind for me is supporting ways the county provides vital services to Beacon and Dutchess County residents. This includes affordable housing through the Department of Planning and the Housing Trust Fund, and mental health, family, and emergency housing services through the Department of Community and Family Services and the Department of Health.
I’m keen to support the Beacon-Hopewell Rail Trail and continue to look for ways we can get the best bus services and emergency services in Beacon and Fishkill and throughout the county.
What is something that you have done or achieved in Beacon or elsewhere that positively contributed to your community?
I’m proud of working with my fellow city councilmembers to create the versions of laws that best meet the needs of Beacon where we are now, including Good Cause Eviction, ADU (Affordable Dwelling Units) law, and removing parking minimums.
What can you bring to the role?
After three years on City Council, I have a strong sense of what is needed to get the best version of legislation possible. I’m also adept at connecting with people from a variety of backgrounds and priorities and meeting them where they are. I look for points of connection to create laws and support the expansion of services that meet the needs of my community.
Tell us something personal about you.
Last year, I started attending the monthly Elks Lodge Dance Night, with DJs Beacon Dance Beat. Not only is it a fun time out, but I love how it brings together people from across the Beacon community and from around the Hudson Valley and surrounding areas.