Calistoga City Council Candidates ForumHosted by League of Women Voters of Napa CountyOctober 7, from 6:00 to 7:00 pmCalistoga Junior-Senior High School multiuse room1608 Lake Street, Calistoga CA 94515Click here, to the League s website, for more information.
1. Housing and Families: Housing is a crucial priority for our community. Given our agricultural preservation policies, we need to be strategic about land use. Prioritizing “missing middle” housing options will better support families and our workforce, rather than focusing solely on large apartment complexes or million-dollar estate homes. My commitment to family welfare drives my leadership, particularly in addressing the urgent need for workforce and family housing.
2. Support for Small Businesses and Tourism: Calistoga thrives on tourism, with 64% of our General Fund derived from (TOT). We must promote a vibrant tourism sector that encourages visitors to explore our downtown shops and restaurants. Supporting small businesses is vital for maintaining our community's character and charm.
3. Infrastructure: Focusing on infrastructure is essential for the city’s future and public safety. We must prioritize the maintenance and upgrade of our aging infrastructure.
As a 14-year resident of Calistoga and a single mother, I have a unique perspective on the challenges families face in our community. My experiences navigating daily life here have fueled my passion for advocating for the needs of families, small businesses, and full-time residents.
Having served four years on the city council, I bring valuable knowledge and practical experience essential for effective leadership. During my tenure, I have worked diligently to foster an inclusive and sustainable community, ensuring that all residents have a voice in the decision-making process. My commitment to transparency and accountability means that I prioritize clear communication about the rationale behind my votes, fostering trust within our community.
Collaboration is a cornerstone of my approach to governance. I believe in building strong relationships among residents, local organizations, and city officials to tackle shared challenges. This collaborative spirit has enabled us to effectively address pressing issues while nurturing a sense of unity and cooperation in Calistoga.
One of the most significant challenges we face is the rising cost of living, especially in housing. Many families struggle to remain in Calistoga due to escalating housing costs, which threatens our community’s fabric. If re-elected, I will prioritize affordable housing initiatives, leveraging my experience to ensure that families can continue to call Calistoga home.
Moreover, I recognize the vital role small businesses play in our local economy. My advocacy for policies that support and empower these businesses has been a key focus of my work. I understand their challenges and will continue to advocate for an environment that allows them to thrive.
Overall, my long-term residency, my experiences as a single mother, and my tenure on the council uniquely position me to effectively serve and lead our community. I am committed to fostering open communication with residents, ensuring their voices are integral to the decision-making process. Together, we can address our challenges and build a brighter future for Calistoga. I look forward to the opportunity to continue serving our community.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Candidate has not yet responded.
Youth Education, Financial Sustainability, & Community Growth
Working closely with several different organizations in spearheading behavioral health initiatives, working closely with juveniles, and understanding large and small community growth created a universal outlook in my life. Being raised in a small town and progressing in a large city has developed the mindset on how populations in a town/city can create a well-rounded system or can break a developed system.
I am proud to say that I am the first in my family to attain a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology & a Masters Degree in Forensic Psychology. I will not stop there. I will continue my education in obtaining a Doctorate Degree in Clinical Psychology to better understand human behavior and develop systems for all.
With this educational progression I have created for myself, has opened the doors to family members alike. Reason I believe in higher education, especially in our Latino population. Education is a key factor to helping a community growth with strength and endurance. I hope to gain knowledge so I can provide our community with the transparency it deserves.
