VOTE411 Voter Guide

I bring a diverse set of experiences and skills to serve effectively on Grand Haven City Council. Graduating from MSU’s College of Engineering taught me to think critically, break down complex problems, and create practical, data-driven solutions while keeping the big picture in mind.

Early in my career, I developed strong negotiation and collaboration skills managing steel contracts and working with top automotive suppliers, learning to ask the right questions, navigate challenging conversations, and find common ground. For the past 15 years I’ve helped local small businesses with marketing, design, and web services. From this, I've gained insight into the challenges they face and how a clear identity and purpose can guide decisions, foster growth, and create meaningful impact.

Co-authoring The Stocked Kitchen strengthened my skills in communication, organization, and turning vision into action. I’m currently active in the community as a Musical Fountain Committee member, co-founder of Better Bags – Cornhole for a Cause, and was a longtime GHAPS parent.

Over the next two years, Grand Haven’s City Government will face the challenge of creating a unified, forward-thinking vision that strengthens the city’s vibrancy, preserves its charm, and addresses the financial realities from past decisions. Ensuring our community remains welcoming, resilient, and economically sustainable will require careful planning, creative problem-solving, and collaboration among all stakeholders.

Key priorities include responsible budgeting, maintaining and improving infrastructure, and ensuring public safety and emergency services remain effective. Fostering inclusive and sustainable development, protecting natural resources and the shoreline, and supporting balanced growth are also essential.

Equally important is building trust and collaboration between city government, residents, and local businesses to ensure decisions reflect the community’s needs and values. By focusing on practical solutions, transparency, and a shared vision, we can keep Grand Haven strong, vibrant, and resilient while moving forward responsibly for current and future generations.

I believe that when we move beyond divisiveness and politics, we can build understanding and support through smart, inclusive communication. Our city relies on volunteers, and when leadership is dynamic, seeks common ground, and supports city staff in executing a thoughtful vision, residents are more likely to feel engaged and invested. By involving people of all ages—including young people and families—and using technology and modern communication tools, we can foster a true sense of shared purpose.

I will focus on clear, transparent messaging that highlights collaboration, practical solutions, and the long-term benefits of city initiatives. By showing how residents’ input matters and how city decisions impact the community, we can energize everyone to shape Grand Haven’s future and strengthen collective trust, investment, and pride in a vibrant, resilient city.

I graduated with a BS in Finance from GVSU in 2006. I entered law school at MSU that fall where I fell in love with Tax Law (I know!). At this same time, I pursued a master's degree in business administration at GVSU. With degrees in Finance, Business Administration, and Law, I bring a deep understanding of fiscal responsibility, strategic planning, and policy development, skills that are essential for meeting current community needs and guiding Grand Haven forward. After law school I searched for a friend group. I was able to find that in the Grand Haven Young Professionals. I joined the board within six months of attending meetings and kept volunteering after that. With that group I helped start the Salmon Run 5K that turned into a fundraiser for Momentum Center before covid shut the race down. I have served on the Winterfest planning committee, the Imagination Station Fundraising Committee, was a Chamber Ambassador, sat as a board member of Walk the Beat, the President of the East End Association, and recently served as the Treasurer for Gracious Grounds before terming out. Currently I am a member of the Grand Haven Rotary, a Steering Committee Member of the Tri-Cities Women Who Care, and a member of Sunset Retirement Community Foundation Board. These are just a few of the organizations I have served with while I support many more. I have been blessed to be nominated for a few awards in our community. In 2021, I was nominated for, and was presented with, the Dr. Elizabeth Curtis Young Professional Award from the Chamber of Commerce. In 2023, I was nominated for both the Disability Network Lakeshore Ability Award and the Lakeshore Athena Award. I am thankful for all the work that goes on behind the scenes for these awards, and just to be included amongst the other nominees was a huge honor.

There are critical issues that demand our attention. Balancing the budget responsibly is at the core of making smart decisions for our future. We must explore unique avenues to bring in revenue, ways that strengthen our economy, and preserve the charm that makes Grand Haven so special.

We must also recognize the importance of making our town attainable once again for young families. Too many are forced to look elsewhere, simply because housing remains out of reach. Grand Haven should be a place where young families are excited to settle down and where longtime residents continue to feel secure calling this place home.

Lastly, lets talk about development. Growth should not be confined to one part of town. The vitality of Grand Haven depends on both sides of the highway. Downtown, Washington Square, East Town and Center town in between— all deserve attention, investment, and smart development that enhances our community without losing the identities we cherish.

I plan to make myself available to our constituents in person, through social media, and email. I have set standard "office hours" throughout my campaign and if I am elected will continue this practice. I plan to send out periodic newsletters and sharing city information on social media through my facebook page. I think it is important to make yourself available and I am out in our community daily. My cell phone is also general information and can easily be found. I am happy to take phone calls and meet with people one-on-one.

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