I possess several traits that will make me an excellent representative. First, I am a patient listener. I am never afraid to listen to someone with an opposing viewpoint or hear the other side. Also, my love of history means that I will investigate and research topics extensively and ensure I have the clearest understanding possible.

My number one priority as a representative will be ensuring that the residents of Stamford get value for the taxes they pay. Many residents of Stamford say that they love the city and never want to leave. However, an overwhelming number express disdain for poorly maintained roads, increasing traffic, and raising property taxes with nothing to show in return. The disdain is justified and heard across the city. As a member of the Board of Reps, I will focus on improving the value that residents receive from our government. I want the residents of Stamford to feel that their tax dollars go towards maintaining and improving the City they know and love.

Development responsibilities within the City of Stamford, such as the building of new apartments, condos, townhouses, and more, lies with the Planning and Zoning Boards. Ultimately, the Board of Representatives is not responsible for development within the city of Stamford. However, I understand many residents' concerns regarding development within the City of Stamford. Citizens should not feel that the Zoning and Planning boards are omniscient bodies that force neighborhoods to bend to their whim. Nonetheless, Stamford, like much of the nation, is facing a housing shortage which is pushing long-time residents out of the city. The Board of Representatives, and myself, must serve as a liaison between communities and the Zoning and Planning Boards. Representatives must work with these boards to ensure that growth is responsible, sustainable, and improves both property value of the existing neighborhood without dramatically altering its current character. These compromises between development, sustainability, and maintaining neighborhood character exist!

Affordability in Stamford, especially for young residents like myself, is a crisis. I was born and have lived in Stamford my entire life. Nonetheless, I feel priced out of this city due to its lack of affordability. The Affordable Housing Trust Fund’s management is not under the Board of Representatives discretion. Nonetheless, housing affordability must be at the core of any new development occurring in Stamford. As a member of the Board of Representatives, I will work with the Planning and Zoning Boards to ensure affordable units remain available in Stamford. However, I disagree with the fee-in-lieu that developers pay to “opt out” of affordable units.The Planning and Zoning Boards should use other tools at their disposal to incentivize the creation of affordable units and not offer developers a “get out of jail free card” for affordable units.