I am going door to door and asking, "What are your concerns?" I'm learning a lot and am deeply touched by the number of people who invite me into their homes to have a cup of tea or coffee and share with me what's on their hearts and minds about issues facing our city. So far, the main areas of concern fall into three general categories:

#1 Safety

I've heard repeated concerns about criminality — especially violent crime and property theft. In general, people have shared that they no longer feel safe on the trail, and several have shared that they avoid leaving their homes after dark. If elected, I will support our Police Department and first responders to ensure they have the resources needed to train, retain and take care of themselves and their families so they can meet the demands of serving our community's needs. I will fully support the Columbia Police Department's co-responder program (aka community policing), proactive crime prevention and efforts to achieve accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).

#2 Infrastructure

Quality streetlights, sidewalks, sewers and roads are essential. I will support improvements to our infrastructure.

#3 Health and Well-Being

Our mental, physical, spiritual and financial health impact all that we do. We're blessed to have a vibrant Parks and Recreation Department that offers so many wonderful opportunities to citizens of all ages and stages of life, which help foster the spirit of community. We also have great health care options. I dealt with my own health battle in 2009, and I am immensely grateful for the tremendous care I had at Ellis Fischel and Missouri Cancer Associates and the support of countless kind and generous people in our community. I will support, within the limited government framework, matters that impact quality health and well-being, such as quality drinking water, access to parks and recreation, and the addition of commercial developments with more grocery stores to make it easier to access quality food. In addition, a sad and difficult challenge impacting our community at large is the rise in drug overdoses. Its impact is heartbreaking for the individuals sick with addiction and their families. I support quality mental health options, rehabilitation and wellness for those struggling and wanting help to overcome addiction, as well as wellness, healing and support for their friends and family.

What Matters to You?

Real listening and quality conversations happen in person, not online. I welcome an opportunity to meet and learn about your concerns.