Issues

Turnpike

The proposed turnpike projects in Norman threaten the livelihoods and property rights of hundreds of families within our city limits. This is in addition to the immense destruction of our rural natural environment and wildlife habitats, as well as the harmful impacts on waterways that feed Lake Thunderbird.

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) never attempted to work with the City of Norman or our residents on this proposal before publishing the route maps in February 2022. As a result, we have seen a significant backlash that has united our community more than any other issue I’ve ever witnessed in Norman.

I supported the City Council’s 2022 resolution declaring our official objection to the OTA’s plan, and I still stand firmly behind that vote. As Mayor, I will always be willing to talk with the OTA or any other group, but Norman residents come first. The feedback I’ve received over the last two years remains overwhelmingly opposed to the City cooperating with the OTA in any way.

Unlike the OTA, we are elected by the people, and it is the people of Norman that I represent.

Arena/Entertainment District TIF

A new arena for OU athletics should be on the university campus. However, if OU decides to place it elsewhere, that is their decision.

My stance is clear: if interested parties want to fund the entire project themselves, they are welcome to place it wherever they like. This is why I voted yes on the zoning change and site plan. However, if they want public financing—up to $600 million over 25 years—then the voters of Norman should make that decision at the ballot box.

This stance reflects the overwhelming feedback I’ve received over the last few years and was a primary factor in my vote against the TIF funding proposal. I also supported the petition initiative to bring this issue to a public vote. As Mayor, I will honor and support the will of voters on this matter, no matter the outcome.

Homelessness

Addressing homelessness is a complex and multifaceted issue requiring collaboration across government, community efforts, and individual contributions. Here are some key approaches I support:

  • Affordable Housing: Ensure access to affordable housing. Preventing homelessness starts with policies that increase low-income and supportive housing options.
  • Supportive Services: Provide mental health counseling, addiction treatment, job training, and healthcare to address the root causes of homelessness.
  • Prevention: Offer temporary financial assistance through nonprofits and state services to those at risk of homelessness. Address factors like domestic violence and job loss.
  • Coordination: Foster collaboration between government agencies, nonprofits, and community groups to maximize resources and efforts.
  • Education and Awareness: Reduce stigmatization by educating the public about homelessness and its root causes.
  • Employment Opportunities: Create job programs and vocational training to help homeless individuals achieve financial stability.
  • Wraparound Services: Provide comprehensive support for veterans, families, youth, and those with disabilities.
  • Housing First: Prioritize stable housing first, then offer necessary services like addiction treatment and mental health care.
  • Community Engagement: Involve the community in supporting shelters, volunteering, and fundraising.

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to homelessness. It requires sustained, collaborative effort across stakeholders. As Mayor, I will listen, lead with compassion, and foster collaboration to find real solutions.

Water Resources

Maintaining and preserving our most precious natural resource - water - is vital. I remain committed to making informed, forward-looking decisions to secure Norman’s water future for the next 50-100 years.

Having served on the 2060 Strategic Water Supply Committee, I’ve worked to explore every possible option for ensuring sustainable water resources including conservation and reuse. This challenge will span generations, and we need leaders who can make informed decisions and work collaboratively for the best outcomes for all Norman residents.

During my time on the Council, we have invested nearly $100 million in improvements to both our water treatment and wastewater treatment plants. These projects have increased capacity and enhanced our ability to ensure that not only is the water we drink safe, but the water we send downstream is safe as well.

Open Government

A transparent civic process requires citizen oversight and involvement. Over the last twelve years, I’ve supported initiatives to improve accessibility and transparency, including:

  • Town Hall meetings
  • Social media outreach
  • Improved city website functionality
  • A hearing loop at City Hall
  • Live-streamed and recorded meetings on YouTube

I believe in always being available to meet with or hear from residents who have concerns or wish to engage in local issues.

Financial & Economic Sustainability

Norman is a wonderful place to live, but our growth must be planned thoughtfully and incrementally. Our city faces ongoing challenges in mobility, water security, and infrastructure.

I will continue to evaluate the cost-benefit of proposed developments and their impact on our infrastructure and resources. Smart planning is essential for a sustainable future. As Chair of the Community Planning & Transportation Committee for the last six years, I’ve worked to address these challenges effectively.

The proposed turnpike projects have introduced uncertainty about our future development and the preservation of our rural character. I firmly believe in protecting rural Norman and the Lake Thunderbird watershed and will continue supporting policies that prioritize these values.

Public Safety

A healthy city requires an efficient and responsive public safety system.

Police Services:

Transparent, accountable police services are essential for building community trust. Every resident should feel confident that seeking help will result in a quick, professional, and timely response.

I support continued de-escalation training and ensuring our officers are equipped to appropriately handle mental health and crisis response situations. Additionally, prioritizing the mental and physical health of our officers is crucial so they can perform their jobs at the highest level.

Fire Protection:

We’ve made significant progress in reducing response times and lowering insurance rates, earning the highest possible ISO public protection classification. The Norman Fire Department is now among a select few nationwide with this recognition.

I will continue working to complete the construction of the new Fire Station #5, the last of the projects approved by voters in the Public Safety Sales Tax initiative. Additionally, the public safety assessment I supported will help identify staffing and facility needs, including new stations and optimal locations to maximize coverage and further reduce response times.

Transportation Safety:

Creating safer streets for all modes of transportation is vital, and ADA accessibility remains a priority.

In 2019, I supported funding for a Traffic Control Management Center, which voters approved and is now nearing completion. This center will improve traffic flow with signals that can be adjusted in real time based on traffic conditions and emergencies.

Furthermore, better street design can help reduce fatal and injury crashes, and I will continue supporting policies that address safety in all future street projects.

If we want to build an inclusive community, we must ensure Norman is a safe place for all residents to travel and live.

Other Issues

If elected as your next Mayor, I will continue working on these important issues for Norman among many more. 

  • Future Drinking Water Supply/Quality Solutions and Strategic Plan Implementation
  • Storm Water Master Plan Update/Implementation and Voter Approved Utility for Annual Maintenance and Flood Prevention
  • Enhanced Public Transit Service Options (Local & Regional)
  • Affordable and Accessible Housing
  • ADA and Accessibility Improvements Citywide
  • Adequately Maintaining and Improving Existing Infrastructure
  • Government Transparency Through Citizen Involvement and Oversight
  • Police Oversight & Accountability
  • Reliable and Efficient Fire Response /Completion of New Fire Station 5
  • Mental Health & Wellness/Crisis Response
  • Downtown/Core Area Revitalization and Protection of Historic Neighborhoods/Trees
  • Rail Crossing Safety Improvements
  • Public Health Enhancements (parks, trails, wellness centers)
  • Environmental Stewardship that Protects our Natural Spaces for Future Norman Residents
  • Balanced Budgeting, Strategic Financial Planning, and Economic Sustainability
  • Support and Encourage Local Small Businesses Growth