Priorities
Protecting the Plains
I am concerned about the environmental impacts of data centers. I also understand that state and local elected officials and LEADS have welcomed this new industry with open arms. Laramie County is an undisputed host region for data centers for better or for worse. We should remember that our land, approvals, water, and electricity give us more leverage than it did in the past decade, when data centers required much less of our resources. We have an opportunity to create lasting prosperity for Cheyenne in the form of high-value investment from Big Tech--not just tax revenue and jobs. We can enact laws that protect our prairie ecosystem from careless industry practice. I support true partnership and strict regulation.
Historic Preservation
The History of Cheyenne makes us a unique attraction for tourists from all over the world. We are home to legendary outlaws, the American cowboy, Buffalo Soldiers, the mighty railroad, the Cheyenne and Arapahoe tribes, and Women’s Suffrage. I care about saving the places and spaces that keep Cheyenne's history alive for future generations.
5th and 6th Penny
I support 5th and 6th Penny ballot initiatives. It is a crucial funding mechanism for maintaining our roads and infrastructure. In addition, it enriches our cultural amenities like the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens, the Cheyenne Greenway, and the West Edge vision.
Public Safety
With unprecedented drought, it is imperative that our city government supports a robust fire rescue so that we can protect our property and our lives when catastrophe arrives. Our police department is also tasked with protecting our welfare, and elected officials have the responsibility of ensuring our officers have the resources they need to be of proper service to Cheyenne.
Housing Relief
I will continue the problem-solving efforts already initiated by City Council to expand affordable housing options to Cheyenne residents. Recent donations from data centers are appreciated, and will help alleviate our housing crisis. However, rather than acting as a recipient of Big Tech philanthropy, City Council could be effectively negotiating for more affordable housing in partnership with Big Tech. Data centers not only require much more of our land and infrastructure, they are also contributing to the demand for housing.
Mental Health
Suicide rates in Laramie County have risen 63% since 2024. The resources available to Cheyenne citizens who are experiencing a mental health crisis are sparse and outreach efforts could be improved. City Council could do more to support local organizations, promote awareness, and aid in prevention.
Homelessness
Declines in mental health often result in homelessness. This contributes to 200 children experiencing homelessness in Laramie County every year. I support greater partnership efforts between the city and seasoned organizations to provide more opportunities for shelter and rehabilitation. Simply providing equitable access to public restrooms and washing stations can help those experiencing homelessness maintain their dignity while improving sanitation for neighboring homes and businesses.
Dark Sky Advocate
Growing up in Cheyenne, it was easy to study the constellations, and I could see the milky way from my backyard. Light pollution in our community has dramatically increased over the decades with the advent of high wattage blue light LEDs. I will be an advocate for a transition to narrow-band amber LEDs with reasonable wattage so that Cheyenne can stargaze again without reducing safety.