FAQ

How long have you lived in Whittier?
I have lived in Whittier since 1996.

What do you think about Historic Preservation?
After studying history in college and receiving a Bachelor’s Degree in History, I understand the importance of historic preservation. .  I believe in maintaining Whittier’s historic sites and neighborhoods because that is part of what makes Whittier unique.  One of my goals is to bridge the older generation of Whittier to the younger generation so that the youth learn from them and appreciate all that Whittier has to offer them in all aspects of life.

What are your thoughts about supporting the art community?
The arts are deep routed in Whittier, starting with the person in which our city is named after, John Greenleaf Whittier, who was a poet. As a poet myself, and a teacher, I believe that art in any form is essential for our community. The arts help students with their intellectual development and allow them to apply their talents to numerous canvases.

Will you complete the Greenway Trail to the east and west?
I frequently run through Whittier and have used the Greenway Trail as part of my course since it opened.  It is great to see so many residents use the trail, including families, students, athletes, and retired couples.  In addition, it allows residents to safely ride their bikes, jog, or walk away from the busy streets.  I think it is important to expand the Greenway Trail and as a city councilman, I will work on completing the trail.

What personal qualities do you bring to the Councilman job?
I bring endless energy, hard work, fresh ideas and perspectives, and determination to help Whittier reach her full potential.
 
How will you work with our school districts?
As a seven-year teacher myself, I know what’s important and essential for our schools to have.  In order for our children receive the best education possible we need to work together as a community to ensure that his happens.   One of my goals is to maximize our city resources to benefit not only the students, but also the teachers who are constantly unacknowledged for their hard work and efforts.  I will continue to visit schools and work with the school administrators to ensure that we are doing all that we can for each and every student.

Not everybody has cable TV.  How will you make televised council meetings more   accessible?
All city council meetings are archived, and I will make certain that they are added onto the city’s website, where they then can be accessed anytime and anywhere, including our local libraries.  I will also create satellite locations in Whittier that will televise the meetings. All at no cost for our residents.

Are you in favor of letting businesses in Uptown stay open until 2 am?
Businesses may stay open until 2 am as long as they have the proper permit and remain in accordance with the city ordinances.  More importantly businesses that stay open until 2 a.m. must understand and respect neighboring residents that occupy the surrounding areas. 
 
Are you pro-business?  Define that.
As a business owner myself, I am pro-business. In order for Whittier to grow economically and prosper, old and new businesses need to be supported.  As a result, each business becomes successful, which in turn makes our city successful.  Therefore, all businesses need to work together.  Also as a pro-business councilman I will make myself accessible by frequently visiting our local businesses to support and listen to our business owners.