Some of my first term accomplishments

Advancing Climate Action for a Sustainable Future

“Committed to ensuring Columbia is a leader in environmental stewardship.”

Climate Initiatives: As Mayor, I championed climate action through local policies focused on reducing emissions, expanding renewable energy usage, and creating greener public spaces. Columbia is now on track to meet ambitious sustainability goals, setting an example for cities across Missouri.

CHAMP Leadership: Proudly introduced a resolution a the US Conference of Mayors, supporting the Coalition for High-Ambition Multi-Level Partnerships (CHAMP), which strengthens Columbia’s position on the national and international stage for climate action.

Building Safer, Stronger Communities

“Safety is at the heart of a thriving community.”

Community Safety Initiatives: Focused on addressing root causes of crime by supporting community-centered policing, sponsoring youth programs, and investing in resources for mental health and substance use. Our city has seen positive trends in community engagement, helping build trust and safety.

Public Safety Partnerships: Collaborated with CPD, neighborhood organizations, and advocacy groups to support effective and preventive crime-reduction strategies.

Celebrating What Makes Columbia Special

Cultural Events: Championed increase in support for local cultural and arts programs, including First Fridays and the True/False Film Fest, showcasing Columbia’s creative spirit.
Parks and Recreation: Promoted park expansions and the creation of more community green spaces, ensuring recreational opportunities for all.
Sister Cities Relationships: Strengthened international ties, such as welcoming a delegation from Columbia’s sister city in South Korea, fostering cultural exchange and mutual growth.

Fostering Economic Growth & Supporting Local Businesses

“Helping our local economy grow by supporting small businesses and workforce development.”

Small Business Support: Expanded resources for small businesses, especially those affected by the pandemic, and championed policies to streamline permitting processes, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on growth and innovation.

Workforce Development: Partnered with educational institutions to increase workforce training and provide pathways to well-paying jobs, ensuring Columbia’s economy grows alongside its talented residents.

Supporting a Healthy Economy

Online Sales Tax: Championed passage of online sales tax so our local businesses have a level playing field with national and global companies.
Entrepreneurship: Expanded support for minority- and women-owned businesses through mentorship programs and funding opportunities.

Expanding Affordable Housing Opportunities

“Ensuring everyone in Columbia has a place to call home.”

Affordable Housing Investments: Advocated for increased funding and partnerships to support affordable housing projects, which led to new units across the city, making housing more accessible for families, young professionals, and seniors.

Zoning and Development Reform: Worked to update zoning policies that encourage affordable housing developments and make it easier for residents to find quality housing options.

Creating Housing for All

Homelessness Services: Championed funding for transitional housing and collaborated with local organizations to expand support for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Boone County Housing Study: Worked with Boone County on a comprehensive housing study to assess current needs and implement actionable recommendations. These included zoning adjustments to encourage multifamily developments and increasing support for workforce housing initiatives.

Supporting Safe Neighborhoods and Good Policing Practices

Columbia Police Academy: Supported the partnership with Lincoln University for the creation of our own police academy so that recruits graduate having learned Columbia’s policing philosophy, tools, and expectations of community policing.
Office of Violence Prevention: Created the Office of Violence Prevention to coordinate City resources and data with community violence intervention programs to make Columbia neighborhoods safer.
Public Safety Infrastructure: Prioritized investments in safety equipment and facilities for first responders, ensuring they have the tools needed to protect and serve effectively.
City Staff Investments: Increased starting salaries and addressed wage compression for existing public safety personnel, ensuring competitive wages and benefits to maintain a well-trained, motivated workforce.

Prioritizing Transparent & Inclusive Governance

“Every voice in Columbia deserves to be heard.”

Engagement & Transparency: Launched initiatives to improve transparency in government by providing more accessible information on budgets, projects, and city meetings. Enhanced public comment periods to encourage open dialogue and ensure community voices shape city policies.

Community-Driven Solutions: Created task forces and advisory boards, bringing residents into the decision-making process to ensure our city government reflects the diversity and needs of our community.

Returning Civility and Collaboration to City Hall

Open Dialogue: Implemented BeHeardComo online forums to encourage public input and transparent discussions on key city issues.
Collaborative Leadership: Fostered strong partnerships with City Council members, Boone County Commission members, department heads, and community leaders, emphasizing teamwork over partisanship.
Respectful Engagement: Reinforced the importance of civil discourse during City Council meetings, balancing free speech with constructive discussions.
City Staff Investments: Increased wages and benefits for City staff to attract and retain top talent, ensuring a high-performing team to meet Columbia’s needs.

Investing in Our Infrastructure

Sustainable Infrastructure: Spearheaded green infrastructure projects, such as expanding solar energy installations on municipal buildings, EV charging stations, and improving stormwater systems.
Automated Trash Collection and Recycling Restart: Transitioned to automated trash collection, improving efficiency and worker safety, while successfully reinstating curbside recycling collection to provide residents with sustainable waste management options.
Road and Utility Improvements: Ensured continued investment in road repairs, utility upgrades, and broadband expansion to meet the needs of a growing community.
Capital Improvement Sales Tax Renewal: Championed the successful renewal of the capital improvement sales tax, securing funding for essential infrastructure projects, including roads, parks, and public safety facilities.
Federal Funding Awards: Secured federal funding through grants like Safe Streets for All and RAISE (Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity), enabling transformative safety and mobility projects throughout Columbia.