Priorities

Whether we are talking about housing, energy, food costs, childcare, health care, or basic services, our families are facing an affordability crisis, which is disproportionately impacting children and families, older adults, and our immigrant and LGBTQ+ communities. I will continue to prioritize cost impacts for residents (in particular for our most vulnerable residents) over political expedience.
More than just setting target goals,
I have prioritized tangible resiliency projects and programs to protect residents and infrastructure from fires, floods, sea level rise, and drought,
all of which are immediate and
critical issues in this district.
As a small business owner and as a long-time local elected official, I know firsthand the importance of small businesses in our local economy, from economic opportunity to revenue generation to support municipal services. 99% of businesses in California are small businesses and are critical in supporting our local economy and job creation.

values in action

As Novato Mayor (in partnership with North Bay Jobs with Justice), I helped spearhead the City’s minimum wage increase (to a level above the state minimum wage).
Supported (and contributed to) Novato’s successful Measure M, which allowed the City to provide better wages for employees.
Pushed against homeless bans and sweeps; instead focusing on a variety of creative and integrated programs, with appropriate wrap-around services. Novato’s encampment, which had been the largest in the entire North Bay, has now been reduced by 2/3rds.
Worked in partnership with our LGBTQ+ community leaders, was proud to raise the Pride Flag above City Hall in 2021, and honored to host the inaugural Pride Festival.
Over the years, I partnered with the former Spahr Center on harm reduction programs, MPOX vaccines, and funding issues. I am honored to have the endorsement of LGBTQ+ elected officials (both currently and formerly elected) in recognition of our partnership.
Have been a strong proponent of the Novato Teen Clinic (formerly the Novato Wellness Center) over the years.

Spearheaded an innovative $2M low-interest city loan so the North Bay Children’s Center could double its subsidized childcare capacity.
As SMART Board Chair, successfully prioritized FREE fares for youth and seniors, making transit more affordable and accessible for all.
As a Marin County Supervisor, along with my colleagues, I implemented paid parental leave for Marin County public employees.
As a Marin County Supervisor, along with my colleagues, I allocated $.5M for Legal Aid of Marin, Rapid Response Network, and other organizations to support our immigrant communities.
Proudly helped pass our County Housing Element in Marin.
On both city and county levels, I have strongly advocated for several affordable projects, including two Habitat for Humanity projects and two that support the Marin Foster Care Association for Transitional Age Youth.
A Marin Women’s Political Action Committee (MWPAC) Recommended Candidate in 2019
& 2022. MWPAC requires an unequivocal commitment to reproductive rights in order to be considered for support.