Where I stand
I want to share with you where I stand on the issues facing Santa Barbara, from public safety and privacy to development and accountability. My goal is to represent our community with integrity and common sense, but leadership also means listening. I want to hear your thoughts, concerns, and ideas, because the best decisions for our city come from open conversation and shared input.
Redevelopment of La Cumbre Plaza
La Cumbre Plaza is facing one of the largest redevelopment proposals in Santa Barbara’s history, with more than 1,100 housing units proposed across the former Macy’s and Sears sites. While Upper State is well positioned for growth given its proximity to Highway 101, Highway 154, and established transit routes, projects of this scale raise important questions about affordability, traffic, infrastructure capacity, and neighborhood impact. We need housing, but we also need thoughtful planning, meaningful low income units, and clear accountability. Click below to learn more about where I stand on the redevelopment of La Cumbre Plaza.
A Responsible Path Forward for State Street
State Street means something to all of us. It is where we have gathered, shopped, and connected as a community. After years of studies and more than $1.1 million authorized in planning efforts, many residents and business owners are still looking for a clear path forward. I believe we can move ahead with balance, keeping part of the promenade, improving transportation and parking, streamlining permitting, and encouraging thoughtful mixed use growth. I invite you to read my full vision for a vibrant and welcoming downtown.
The Work and Housing Pilot Concept
Homelessness in Santa Barbara requires more than good intentions, it requires clear results. We must continue supporting housing and treatment partnerships while pursuing innovative, fiscally responsible solutions like a Work and Housing Pilot that pairs transitional housing with paid job experience. Compassion and accountability can work together to create safer neighborhoods and real pathways to independence. I invite you to read my plan to help move more people off the streets and into stable housing.
The use of Flock Cameras in Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara can keep our community safe without sacrificing our privacy. After looking closely at how Flock Safety’s cameras collect and store data and the real world mistakes and misuse tied to this technology, I believe it raises serious concerns for our residents. This is about safety, accountability, and protecting our constitutional rights. I invite you to read my full statement on why I support removing Flock Safety cameras from our city.
Santa Barbara’s high standards protect the character and beauty of our community, but over time layers of well intentioned regulations have made the development process slow, costly, and difficult to navigate. When projects take years to approve, those costs are passed on to residents through higher housing prices, rents, and business expenses. By streamlining permitting, encouraging adaptive reuse of existing buildings, and making it easier to convert underused spaces into housing or mixed use, we can support responsible growth while preserving what makes Santa Barbara special