Issues | Washington County Co

Washington County faces real challenges. But we don't need more of the same management—we need leadership that addresses root causes.

As County Commissioner, I'll control where our budget goes. Here's what I'll fight for:

The Problem:
30% of Washington County families can't afford housing, food, or healthcare—despite working full-time jobs. Wages have stagnated while costs keep climbing. Working 40+ hours should be enough to support your family.

My Approach:

Ask the hard questions: Why are wages stagnant? Why is housing unaffordable?
Work with local employers to support living wages
Use county resources to create economic opportunities that help families thrive
Support policies that make Washington County affordable for working people
Address root causes, not just symptoms

The Problem:

We keep building shelters while homelessness keeps rising. We're managing the problem instead of solving it. The real issue is a lack of affordable housing—and we need to address why people lose their homes in the first place.

My Approach:

Invest county resources in affordable housing solutions
Support prevention programs, not just emergency response
Work with community partners on sustainable solutions
Ask why people lose housing and address those root causes
Use the county budget to create real pathways out of homelessness

The Problem:
Washington County used to have 24/7 mental health crisis response. Now services are limited and people in crisis can't get help when they need it most. Addiction treatment is hard to access. These are life-or-death issues that require real investment.

My Approach:

Restore and expand 24/7 crisis response services
Invest county resources in mental health infrastructure
Expand access to addiction treatment programs
Ensure people in crisis get help whenever they need it—not just during business hours
Partner with providers to fill gaps in our system

The Problem:

Our schools don't get the funding they need to give every kid a fair shot. Education is the foundation of opportunity, and we're shortchanging our children's future.

My Approach:

Fully support public education funding in the county budget
Ensure our schools have the resources they need
Invest in our teachers and staff
Give every child in Washington County the opportunity to succeed