Phone
509-508-1590
Email
rebeccalongforcheney@gmail.com
Town where you live
Cheney, WA
Experience (300 characters max)
I’m a software engineering leader with 20 years of experience, and I’ve led both global teams and local initiatives. I’ve served on educational advisory boards and co-founded a nonprofit focused on equity in STEAM. I’m committed to transparent, inclusive government that puts Cheney residents first.
I plan to interact with Cheney residents through open, consistent, and transparent communication. I’ll hold regular town halls and listening sessions to hear directly from the community. I’ll also advocate for improving the city’s digital presence to keep residents informed and engaged in decisions that affect them. I believe elected officials should be accessible and visible—not just during elections, but year-round. My goal is to create more opportunities for meaningful two-way communication so every resident feels heard, respected, and empowered to be part of shaping Cheney’s future.
Cheney has a vital role to play in addressing environmental issues locally and regionally. As a city, we must lead by example—protecting our water sources, reducing wildfire risk, promoting sustainable development, and encouraging low-impact transportation like walking and biking. We should integrate environmental responsibility into land use planning, partner with regional and state agencies, and ensure transparency and public engagement in decision-making. By aligning our policies with long-term sustainability goals, Cheney can grow responsibly while preserving the natural resources and quality of life that make our community special.
While I’ve never held public office, I’ve served my community in many meaningful ways. I’ve built and led affinity groups in the regional tech community and served on advisory boards for EWU Computer Science, Spokane Community College Software Development, and Spokane Public Schools IT. I was a transitionary leader with the Cheney Members Association and have volunteered with organizations like the Spokane Humane Society and Girls on the Run. I founded Future Ada, a nonprofit advocating for diversity and inclusion in STEAM, and served as a leader with Spokane Area NOW. I also co-organized the 2019 March for Science and the 2025 Rally for Science reboot. Most recently, I started the local newsletter Cheney, Coffee, & Civics to help make local civic activities more transparent and approachable in an effort to build stronger civic engagement in Cheney.
Cheney doesn’t currently have a large homelessness problem, but we’re beginning to see signs of it—and we must act early and thoughtfully. Our response should be rooted in compassion and prevention, ensuring that we don’t worsen the issue through poor planning decisions that reduce or eliminate affordable housing and displace residents who rely on those homes. We need to protect and expand housing options, support renters, and collaborate with regional partners to provide access to mental health, substance use, and social services. By addressing root causes and planning wisely, Cheney can respond to homelessness in a way that is both humane and effective.
My vision for Cheney is a vibrant, inclusive community where everyone feels valued and has opportunities to thrive. I see a city that honors its small-town charm while embracing thoughtful growth—prioritizing affordable housing, walkable neighborhoods, and strong local businesses. I want Eastern Washington University to be more fully integrated into our community, with students connected and engaged as part of Cheney’s fabric. Transparency and civic engagement should be the norm, with diverse voices shaping our future. Guided by sustainability, equity, and collaboration, Cheney can be a welcoming, healthy home for all generations.
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