I grew up in a tough neighborhood where there were bad influences and distractions around every corner. Despite the poor circumstances, I came to realize that neighborhoods can be nurturing and positive structures if we put some effort into them. We make mistakes when we stereotype neighborhoods as “bad” or not worth our attention and investment. By providing families with affordable options to live and work in their communities, we can build stable, strong, vibrant neighborhoods.

As Your Councilor, I pledge to:

Reduce home foreclosures and the devastating impact they have on the safety of our neighborhoods. That is why I support legislation introduced in the Boston City Council that would protect renters from losing their homes. In addition, I support efforts to allow community organizations to purchase foreclosed properties and convert them to low- and middle-income family housing.

Protect our residents who are at risk of losing their homes as a result of expiring use. By providing fair, timely notice to residents of the possibility that their affordable housing may be expiring, we can help ensure that many of our residents are not suddenly without a home they can afford.

Support appropriate, locally-focused development only if there was legitimate community input and involvement. Different neighborhoods require different development solutions and it is essential individual neighborhood's unique qualities and traditions are taken into account.