Experience: --Honorary Commander, 446th AW
--Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, Military Affairs Committee
--St Clare Women's Advisory Board
--Relay for Life (Cancer Awareness)
--Communities in Schools
--Clover Park Technical Board of Trustee
--Women of Influence
Education: -- Associates of Arts, Liberal Arts, Tacoma Community College
-- Bachelor's of Arts, Liberal Arts, Evergreen State College
-- Master's of Arts, Organizational Leadership, Chapman University
Lakewood voters rejected a proposed ban on minicasinos last November, but the city has said it wants to wean itself off gambling tax revenue. Do you agree and if so, how would you do it?
I believe Lakewood citizens have the right to make up their on minds about gambling. They spoke last fall and I support their decision. However, I do concur with the position that we should not rely on gambling for significant percentage of the city's tax revenues. I believe we can wean ourselves off by exploring other economic development opportunities and by continuing to help make Lakewood a business friendly environment.
Tillicum is one of the city's most economically depressed neighborhoods, yet the city says it has untapped potential for redevelopment. Do you agree and if so, how would you suggest Tillicum be redeveloped?
I agree and I approve of the concept plan that was proposed for Tillicum redevelopment last year. Removal of blight, demolition of unkempt homes, sewer installation and a reorganization and redevelopment of this community for maximum benefit is essential.
Lakewood police reached a milestone with the opening of its new station last year. What should the police department's goals be moving forward?
Lakewood Police should continue its emphasis on public safety and crime reduction through increased vigilance and neighborhood oriented policing.
Personal Statement:
I am running for City Council to help make a difference in the City of Lakewood. This community has been good to me and I want to give back by helping the city take on some of its toughest challenges. Help strengthen neighborhoods, reduce poverty, and participate a communitywide collaboration to help children and family in need.
Experience: Lakewood Human Services Funding Advisory Board 2007-2009 Co-Chair 2008 and 2009.
St. Frances Cabrini Auction Operations 2008 Operations Chair Person 2009.
Cub Scout Den Leader 2008-Present.
Cub Scout Parent Volunteer 2005-2008.
Fort Steilacoom Park playground volunteer 2005.
Youth Sports Coach 1980, 1985-1987, 1990-1992, 2006-2008.
Base wrestling coach 1985-1987.
Education: Diploma, Nursing Green River Community College, 1997.
Associates degree, Nursing, Tacoma Community College, 2001.
Lakewood voters rejected a proposed ban on minicasinos last November, but the city has said it wants to wean itself off gambling tax revenue. Do you agree and if so, how would you do it?
I am against the expansion of gambling in Lakewood. If the people vote to ban gambling at some later date, then it should be phased out over a period of several years. The gambling revenue could be removed in increasing percentages over the phase out period and used for neighborhood sidewalks or other worthy projects. The phase out period would also be used to attract new businesses to replace lost revenue.
Tillicum is one of the city's most economically depressed neighborhoods, yet the city says it has untapped potential for redevelopment. Do you agree and if so, how would you suggest Tillicum be redeveloped?
Tillicum does have potential. I can envision several new shops, a diner and possibly a fueling station along I-5. Maybe some new higher density housing, a restaurant on the lake with a dock to tie your boat to while you eat. A new public boat launch and a public dock for fishing. The potential is there we just need a few good investors to release it.
Lakewood police reached a milestone with the opening of its new station last year. What should the police department's goals be moving forward?
Their top priority should always be continued crime reduction and public safety. Safe streets, safe schools, and safe communities are essential to a healthy, growing city. Having safe streets makes Lakewood more inviting to businesses looking to relocate or expand. So crime reduction and pushing gangs out of Lakewood should always be the top priority of our Police.
Personal Statement:
I believe the strength of this city is you the people and our neighborhoods. I can see better days ahead for Lakewood. We will have to work to achieve our potential. Please join me in building a better Lakewood, because together we can accomplish great things. I ask for your vote this November 3rd. Thank you.