Fiscal Responsibility in Government:

One thing the recent financial crisis has taught us is the need for more fiscal discipline at all levels of government.  The decisions we make now -- or the decisions we fail to make, will determine both the present as well as the future Bethlehem our children will inherit.  I plan on living in Bethlehem for many years to come, and will have to live with the consequences of the decisions we make now.  This is why I will review each budget item line by line and be the financial watchdog the city needs.  Our city cannot afford, and our taxpayers do not deserve anything less of me. 

Strengthen Our Neighborhoods:

Strong neighborhoods are the cornerstone of any city’s overall health.   We must do all in our power to encourage home ownership, especially for our younger residents who wish to make Bethlehem their family’s home.  Residential codes must be strictly enforced to encourage owner-occupancy and discourage absentee landlords.   As a younger resident, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to be able to afford a first home at this time.  I will do all in my power to encourage families to make a long-term commitment to live in our city just as I have.  By making this commitment now we can improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods, deter crime, build stronger schools, and increase the property value of our homes. 

Make our Neighborhoods Safer:

Strong neighborhoods are also safe neighborhoods.  Especially in this uncertain economic environment, many residents are rightfully worried about rising crime and safety in the city.  As a member of City Council I will make it a priority to lead the fight to hire more police officers, invest more in community policing, staff the police substations more adequately, and support neighborhood block watches.  

Support and Create Bethlehem's Middle-Class of the 21^st Century: 

Bethlehem has a long and proud history of supporting stable, middle-class jobs through the Bethlehem Steel.  Those days are gone, and it is time we think about the manufacturing of the future.  The next generation of middle class manufacturing employment will be in technology and energy-related services.  I will support job growth by providing incentives for the development of these and other industries in Bethlehem to provide sustainable and lasting employment for the middle-class right here in our city. 

Responsible Economic Redevelopment:

We cannot afford to bet our future solely on the Sands BethWorks.  We must continue to redevelop our city in a socially, environmentally, and fiscally responsible way.  Development of any kind must improve the standard of living in our community and reduce the tax burden on families and taxpayers.

Honest and Transparent Government:

Government is not about Republicans, Democrats, and Independents.  It is about people.  My campaign is not about me.  It is about the families, neighborhoods, and communities in which I have lived and care deeply about.  I believe strongly in transparency in government.  I will lead by example in making my public service more open and responsive to the people of Bethlehem.