On the Issues
Cascade is experiencing an exciting period of strategic planning and growth. I admire the work by residents, board members, employees and committees to shape and implement these plans. Together, we'll accomplish more for an even better Cascade.
I'm a diligent and inspired leader focused on the details that define Cascade - from well-maintained parks and paths to a safer river.
Learn about my stance and priorities if elected to the Board of Trustees in this video with answers to frequently asked questions.
Transparency: Elevated Communication
Cascade Township's board introduced recorded meetings, making participation accessible for all. I would like to see meeting minutes published with a consistent level of detail. Compare detailed notes from the Planning Commission vs. the bare minimum from the Township Board. The Township also has opted to leave difficult conversations out of the meeting minutes.
My background in public relations, communication, and events will support more proactive and detailed communication about all aspects of the Township and future social events.
Initiative: Budget & Proactive Communication
Cascade Township diligently publishes annual financial audits and has earned a AAA bond rating. However, I believe it's important to proactively communicate with residents about topics like planned millages and intentions for grants and other awards to demonstrate a commitment to transparency. During a time when every dollar must work harder for residents, smart and efficient spending is imperative. Read More
Initiative: Master Plan Implementation
Cascade Township, in partnership with residents and various planning committees, developed a Master Plan to guide the community's next decade. The lengthy guide shapes future zoning and land use for the Township. I've reviewed the plan and submitted considerations regarding feasibility and follow through given my expertise in project management.
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Initiative: Engaging Community Events
From concert series to a "Taste of Cascade," and other community-building opportunities, I'm eager to partner with local businesses and organizations to create more fun, innovative, and engaging events that bring neighbors together in shared spaces.
Moral Leadership: Civil Discourse & Collaboration
Collaboration and a willingness to engage in civil discourse are essential at all levels of the Township. This includes communicating respectfully with peers, Township staff, and residents in order to get the job done. We are all neighbors and should remain focused on building each other up.
Effectiveness: Budget & Strategic Spending
Cascade Township's budget covers many needs, from employee salaries, to public safety and fire department services, to the maintenance of our roads, parks and trials. After the 2020 election, the Township board committed approximately $50,000 in legal fees, including a forensic audit of Township election results after allegations of "fraud" that were proven false.
Read MoreEffectiveness: Ensuring Follow-Through
Cascade has beautiful parks and fields that need to be properly maintained. Before building entirely new recreational fields, we need to ensure that there are plans in place for regular upkeep to avoid some of the visible overgrowth at Cascade Township Park and other locations.
Formal action plans covering all committees and projects will help to mitigate issues of projects unintentionally falling off the to-do list and will assign responsibility to respective leaders.
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