Growing up in rural Nevada, I have seen our Washoe County grow. I can remember when the Spanish Springs community was developing and, I remember when NDOT widened the I-80 freeway by the University of Nevada, Reno. The growth of the county has not been without growing pains. We are seeing a lot of congestion on our roads, and a lack of infrastructure. I have seen the dangerous roads on I-80 and seen traffic congestion throughout District 5.

We live in a desert and in a constant state of drought. Our land and air and water are precious resources that need to be protected. While serving on the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribal Council, I was honored to see the implementation of the Truckee River Water Operating Agreement. This historic agreement ensures all water-users on the Truckee River are working together on the management of the river. This also means the Truckee River should not be over allocated.

Priorities

1. As your Washoe County Commissioner, I will advocate for responsible growth and development. It seems the county is quick to approve developments, and think about the infrastructure after the fact. We need to be good neighbors and think about the cumulative effects of any new developments in Washoe County for all of our communities. 
2. I will ensure that our rural communities are not left out of the discussions and ensure they are not an afterthought.
3. I will respect and protect the sovereignty of our Tribal communities. As a proud member of the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe, Tribal sovereignty is not something I have to be taught or reminded of.

Our elders, children, people with disabilities deserve equal protection and care. I am a firm believer that all our citizens deserve to be respected and cared for, especially those that cannot speak for themselves. My sister is a person with disabilities, and growing up I helped my mother take care of my sister. She taught me about compassion. 

Priorities:

1. As your Washoe County Commissioner, I will advocate to ensure our elders, children, and people with disabilities have access to adequate services. 
2. I will advocate to protective measures to ensure our vulnerable populations are not taken advantage of.
3. Even in times of budget cuts, there are certain issues and programs that should not face cuts. I will advocate for continuous funding for programs that serve our vulnerable populations.

I have worked part-time at Orangetheory Fitness for the past two years. My fitness journey has been a life-long journey. From my heaviest at 320 pounds to where I am now, I am proud of my fitness goals that I have accomplished. It is a constant work in progress. I love the affects working out has on my health and overall wellness and well-being. 

Priorities:
1. As your Washoe County Commissioner, I will advocate for programs that promote healthy-living and wellness. This includes both physical and mental wellness.

2. I will advocate for more partnerships with organizations to provide community wellness programs.

3. I will commit to practicing what I preach, and being an active participant in various wellness events throughout our County.

It is important for the citizens of Washoe County to be informed about what decisions are being made. I understand that not everyone can attend the Washoe County Commission meetings in-person or do not have the time to review a 3-hour meeting online. It is important all citizens of Washoe County feel represented and informed on decisions.

Priority:

1. As your Washoe County Commissioner, I will commit to holding quarterly town hall meetings throughout District 5 to inform the citizens on what is happening with the Washoe County Commission. These town halls will allow citizens to ask questions and get more information-in a more open setting.
2. I will commit to meeting with our Tribal communities and Tribal Councils to provide updates on projects or any matter that could affect our communities.
3. I will also advocate time for the Community Advisory Board (CAB) representatives to meet with the full Washoe County Commissioners. The CABs are the backbone of the county, and serve a vital role in working with their representative communities. It is time for our communities’ voices to be heard.