01
What skills or experiences have prepared you to serve in this role?
I have spent most of my adult life in business, sales, and operations, including building and operating a local small business. That experience has taught me how to manage budgets, solve problems, negotiate, work with people from different backgrounds, and make difficult decisions with limited resources. I grew up in Forest Grove and graduated from Forest Grove High School, so I understand this community personally as well as from a business perspective. I am not a career politician. I would bring practical experience, accountability, common sense, and a willingness to ask hard questions before committing taxpayer dollars.
02
What do you consider to be the biggest issues facing Forest Grove residents currently, and how do you think those issues should be addressed?
Responsible, controlled growth and earlier communication are paramount. Forest Grove has several large developments underway or proposed. We need to ask whether our schools, police, fire, roads, water, utilities, and other infrastructure are prepared for growth 5, 10, or 20 years from now. The data center showed me how important earlier community involvement is. Its approval is behind us, but infrastructure, utilities, compliance, and future impacts still require oversight. Growth is coming, but we must manage it responsibly instead of reacting afterward. Residents, businesses, schools, and community partners deserve a seat at the table. We are Stronger Together.
03
What do you think Forest Grove should do to support existing businesses and attract new economic development?
This issue is close to my heart. Our business left Forest Grove after our landlord proposed a 30% lease increase because we were “doing so well.” Small businesses cannot thrive when success simply creates unsustainable overhead. I believe Forest Grove should explore practical ways to encourage stable, predictable commercial leasing, streamline permitting and city processes, and strengthen its partnership with our Chamber of Commerce. The city, Chamber, property owners, and local businesses should work collaboratively to retain successful businesses, identify barriers to growth, and create an environment where new and existing businesses can invest, hire, and succeed.
04
What role do you think Forest Grove should have in responding to federal immigration enforcement in the community?
Forest Grove should follow the law while keeping its primary focus on local public safety. I do not believe city resources should be used to create fear in the community or to interfere with lawful federal activity. Residents should be able to report crimes, cooperate with local police, and seek emergency assistance without hesitation. Immigration policy is primarily a federal responsibility. Our city government should focus its time, money, and attention on Forest Grove’s responsibilities — public safety, infrastructure, essential services, economic health, and community trust — rather than attempting to create its own immigration policy.
05
Forest Grove voters will decide on a $29.5 million bond for a new police facility in November. Do you support the measure? Why or why not?
I believe our police department needs a new facility, and the City has spent years studying the need and working to reduce costs. At the same time, $29.5 million is a significant taxpayer commitment. Voters rejected the same bond amount in 2025, so I believe taxpayers deserve a clear explanation of what changed and exactly where the money will go. We all work hard for our money. Supporting our police and responsible spending are not competing priorities. We should provide officers what they need while demanding transparency, accountability, and maximum value for taxpayers.