Baltimore County Council District 5

A: The number one issue in our district is managing growth and development in a way that increases our population while preserving community character and addressing affordability. Residents are concerned about preserving the Urban-Rural Demarcation Line (URDL), protecting farmland and green space, and ensuring that new development doesn’t outpace our infrastructure or change the character of our neighborhoods.

I will address this by strengthening long-term, data-driven planning and ensuring that development only occurs where roads, schools, water, and public safety services can support it. That includes enforcing and improving our Adequate Public Facilities policies, using impact fees responsibly, and focusing new growth in already developed areas where infrastructure is in place. This means revitalizing existing communities, thoughtfully reusing underutilized properties, and introducing well-planned additions that fit the character of surrounding neighborhoods.Equally important, I will push for earlier and more meaningful community engagement in the planning process. I will bring residents into conversations before plans are finalized, not after. By aligning growth with infrastructure, protecting the URDL, and making planning more transparent and collaborative, we can meet our housing needs without sacrificing the character and sustainability of our district.

A: To address rising costs of living and affordability concerns in Baltimore County, I would pursue a set of practical, locally focused policies that help families stay and thrive without sacrificing the character of our communities.

First, I would expand attainable housing by encouraging the construction of starter homes, smaller-scale housing options, and opportunities for seniors to downsize. This includes prioritizing the reuse of vacant and underutilized properties and making it easier to add well-designed housing that fits within existing neighborhoods, especially in areas where infrastructure is already in place. Second, I would support relief for homeowners and renters facing rising costs. That includes exploring targeted property tax relief for seniors and working families, strengthening tenant protections, and expanding access to first-time homebuyer programs. Third, I would ensure that growth pays for itself by enforcing strong Adequate Public Facilities policies and impact fees so that new development does not place additional financial strain on existing residents. Finally, I would address everyday costs by supporting access to affordable childcare, investing in workforce development, and promoting good-paying local jobs. Taken together, these strategies can help ease financial pressure while maintaining the quality of life that draws people to Baltimore County.

A: Addressing a 19,000-unit housing deficit requires a targeted, balanced approach that includes the right types of housing in the right places.

First, I would unlock existing capacity by updating zoning to allow smaller homes, accessory dwelling units, and modest infill that fits within existing neighborhoods. This expands options without changing community character. Second, I would prioritize the reuse of vacant and underutilized properties, like aging commercial sites, by streamlining approvals and offering incentives when projects include attainable housing. Third, I would revise and modernize the permitting process to reduce delays and uncertainty, which are major drivers of housing costs. Clear timelines, better coordination, and transparency will help move projects forward more efficiently. Fourth, I would require that a portion of new development includes attainable units through targeted incentives. Fifth, I would ensure growth aligns with infrastructure by strengthening Adequate Public Facilities policies so development occurs where schools, roads, and utilities can support it. Finally, I would expand homeownership opportunities through first-time buyer programs and partnerships to preserve and rehabilitate existing, older housing stock.

A: Transparency and accountability are core reasons I’m running for County Council using public financing. I believe our community deserves not just to be heard, but to be truly listened to, starting with changing how decisions are made and who is included in the process.

Too often, residents are brought in after decisions are made. I will prioritize early, meaningful community engagement by bringing residents into conversations at the beginning, when their input can genuinely influence outcomes. I will push for greater transparency in development and budgeting, including clear, accessible information about proposals, timelines, and decision-making criteria. That means strengthening public notice requirements, making materials easier to find and understand, and ensuring meetings are accessible both in person and online. Just as important, I will be visible and accessible through regular community forums, attending local meetings, and maintaining open lines of communication so residents know their concerns are not only heard, but acted on. Trust is built through consistent, transparent actions. My goal is to create a culture of openness where residents are true partners in shaping Baltimore County’s future.

A: This new Council may be the most diverse Baltimore County has ever had across age, race, gender, and ideology and I see that as a strength. My years of coalition building have prepared me to be a consensus builder, bringing together people with different perspectives to find common ground and move shared priorities forward.

My approach starts with listening to understand. I take the time to understand the values and concerns that shape others’ positions, even when we disagree. That foundation builds trust and helps identify areas of agreement. I also focus on shared goals. In many cases, we want the same outcomes. We all want safe communities, strong schools, and responsible growth, even if we differ on how to get there. Keeping that in focus helps move conversations toward solutions. I rely on a data-driven and transparent decision-making process, using facts and community input to guide discussions and keep them grounded in real impacts. Finally, I bring a collaborative, solutions-oriented mindset, with a willingness to compromise when it leads to better outcomes for residents. Consensus doesn’t mean everyone gets everything they want, it means everyone has been heard and that the final decision reflects a thoughtful, inclusive process.