Questions & Answers

What is the importance of City Council to residents of Champaign?

Decisions made at the city government level are very impactful to our everyday lives. They take shape in our neighborhoods, our employers and businesses, and even our literal streets. City Council is the community's voice in that process. We help to shape the City the way you best see fit, and the results of that work can be seen right here in our own backyards.

Why are you qualified to be on the City Council?

I am an accomplished student of the City of Champaign, having graduated from the Champaign City Government 101 Academy in 2016. And, as a lifelong resident, I feel the pulse of our community. I currently serve on the City's Human Relations Commission via appointment by the Mayor and City Council, where I work with my colleagues to advise Council on issues related to equity and human rights in Champaign. I am also engaged with many other diverse organizations throughout our community.

If elected, what is something you want to accomplish on the City Council, and how long will it take?

There are many things to look at and plenty of opportunities to proudly serve the community's best interests on certain issues. One is housing equality. Currently, Champaign's city code has a section within the Human Rights Ordinance that "shall not prohibit discrimination" by landlords against rental applicants based solely on a record of felony conviction. This law harms both landlords and prospective tenants alike, and establishes a hard stance by the City on an issue that threatens the balance of equal rights and protection that citizens deserve in Champaign. We need to stop ignoring the community and bring this issue to a formal study session. If elected to serve, I will sign on to that study session immediately after signing my oath of office.

Is there anything else you would like to say to an undecided voter?

Your voice is important! What fascinates me the most about municipal government is that it provides a real opportunity for the community to be involved. My goal is to serve Champaign based on what is important to our citizens - and I will be able to obtain that input first-hand much more effectively than at any other level of government. Please feel free to email, call, or come to a City Council meeting and let's talk about making Champaign a better place for all of us. And, of course - VOTE!