Issues

---

The lack of affordable housing is a huge concern, especially for young people. When housing costs are too high, it creates a domino effect that impacts so many aspects of life.
Not being able to afford a place to live, or feeling like you're constantly struggling to keep up with rent or mortgage payments, takes a serious toll. It can lead to:
 * Mental health challenges.
 * Sleep disturbances.
 * Impact on mood.
 * Work performance
This isn't an issue any one group can solve alone. It requires a collective effort. The city, counties, and developers all have a crucial role to play in addressing the affordable housing crisis.

The more I speak with residents within my district and the city overall, a common theme emerges: everyone wants better infrastructure to make Frederick more pedestrian-friendly. Many people in the city are already struggling to afford to maintain their housing; having the ability to walk through the city should not add to their stress. I believe that we can work on creating infrastructure from the canal to surrounding neighborhoods to make Frederick a more pedestrian-friendly city.

Representation is a big deal, plain and simple. As someone from groups that often feel left out, I really believe our leaders should actually look like the people they're serving. When we work together, we can shine a light on diverse voices and show off all the rich culture Frederick has to offer. It's about making sure everyone feels seen and heard. To help foster stronger community bonds.

Frederick's green spaces are vital, and we have an opportunity to make a lasting environmental impact. By advocating for innovative urban planning that incorporates more green areas into development and revitalizing empty lots, we can significantly boost our city's biodiversity. Imagine Carroll Creek thriving with native multi season plants, contributing to a more sustainable, visually appealing, and greener Frederick for all residents. While also encouraging tourism to contribute revenue to local businesses.

Arts have always been a passion of mine. From elementary school all the way through high school and college, I've taken an art class of some sort. Most recently, I've taken pottery classes at FCC. I have dabbed in almost every art medium there is, which has only further deepened my passion and appreciation for art. I think Frederick could invest more resources into the arts and local artists. This would not only beautify our city and encourage artists of all ages, but also help increase tourism by showcasing our local talent.

Frederick's amazing charm is significantly enhanced by its diverse community. We are fortunate to have a rich tapestry of residents, including various age groups, a diverse immigrant population, a vibrant culture of local artists, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and a strong presence of the Deaf community. Ensuring all these individuals feel seen and heard is essential for building a stronger sense of community. This not only fosters greater engagement among residents but also further enriches the beauty and multifaceted culture Frederick has to offer.