Issues / Values
Make young Idahoans our top priority
Our schools are getting by and our students are succeeding because of the dedication of their teachers. I believe that a society and culture can really be evaluated where they put their money. I spent years working in a portable that was nearly as old as original building. Our students and my kids deserve teachers that are less stressed, trusted and well-compensated. Students deserve small class sizes and lots of field trips to grow their curiosity and to be able to envision themselves in a prosperous future. Parents of school age children and shouldn’t be pitted against empty-nest neighbors to pass bonds and levies in order to keep school districts solvent.
Spend our surplus wisely
Idaho is currently holding the largest surplus in Idaho state history. I want everyday Idaho people, like me, to have a seat at the table when it comes to deciding where and how that money will be spent.
Adapt to growth
We can’t grow too slow, we can’t grow too fast. New development needs to to pay a temporarily larger share of local property taxes to assist the infrastructure expansions that need to happen. We need to consider the resources of water and energy the roads and their maintenance, more schools and even trash collection as our farm land continues to be developed for living. The method by which our state determines the value of property the taxation of that property is causing a great deal of economic hardship. Many fixed-income seniors are being prices out of their own homes due to increased property values and the inadequate tax system attached to this system. This is a tragedy that needs immediate attention.
Rise to local challenges
National politics are so engaging. I would even say addicting. I believe in selecting good senators and representatives to represent Idahoans in Washington D.C. and continuing to write and call the offices of those leaders. I would like to see our legislature maintain strict focus on the actual, local problems we face here in Idaho. Saving taxpayers’ money, by not voting for legislation that needs defense in court, is also a priority of mine.