Candidate for
Council Member; City of Pittsburgh; Council District 6; Democratic Party

I have many years of formal experience, having served as one of the most progressive councilmembers in the City of Pittsburgh and legislating policy on various oversight committees, boards, commissions, and authorities. I was instrumental in bringing youth programming to the district, economic development, green space, new development for affordable and modern housing, preserving businesses, promoting assets to attract increased residency, new ventures, and business collaboration opportunities; including adequate senior programming, self-sufficiency programming, and state of the art community centers. I successfully negotiated the only Community Benefits Agreement in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. I have a long history of public service and advocating for those without a voice. Representing the 6th Council District is a privilege; not a divine right. Residents of the district asked me to do three things when I was elected to office. They asked me to be honest, deliver as many City services as possible, and be for them. That's exactly what I have done. I knew people were counting on me and I did everything in my power not to let them down. Serving as the Council District 6 representative has never been about me; only the people of the district. I understand and respect the fact that ALL OF THE POWER belongs to the people. I don't just say it in my words, but I show it in my actions. I pride myself on the fact that I'm HONEST to a fault. I may not give you the answer you want to hear but I'll tell you the truth. I have been committed to human development over the past years. I have invested a lot of time and energy into helping people. I have stood up for our values, fought the fights that had to be waged, because I knew it would improve the lives of families.