Our Vision for the New Ward 8

The vision for our community must reflect the voices, experiences, and aspirations of the people who live here. As we transition into the new Ward 8, I believe the foundation we built together in Ward 7 over the past four years remains strong, and now is the time to build on it.

I welcome your ideas as we work together to shape an inclusive, community-driven vision that unites our neighborhoods and moves Ward 8 forward.

Key Priorities and Issues

Community Activation – Building Stronger Neighborhoods Through Connection and Empowerment

• Expand the Grassroots Grant Initiative to support resident-led events, block clubs, and civic education.
• Launch a Ward 8 Community Directory to better connect residents, local organizations, and businesses.
• Host quarterly “Neighbor Nights” and Community Action Clinics to identify local issues and develop solutions together.

Economic Growth – Creating Opportunity and Building Wealth from Within

• Invest in homeownership and home repair assistance for longtime residents.
• Support local entrepreneurs through the Ward 8 Entrepreneurs Profile Book and partnership programs that boost business credit and financial literacy.
• Advocate for job training and placement programs that prioritize residents, especially youth and returning citizens.

Well-Being – Fostering Safe, Healthy, and Healing Communities

• Increase partnership with mental health and substance use services, with a focus on crisis care and community-based support.
• Champion policies for safe neighborhoods, including investment in violence prevention partnerships, street/vacant lot cleanups, and building and housing and police enforcement.
• Support neighborhood resources and recreation centers, park access, and health and wellness education for youth and families.