.png)
Age: 60 Occupation: Retired from the US Military Town of residence: Springdale Party: Democratic
What can the state do to get more affordable housing?
Answer: To increase affordable housing, the state can adopt several effective strategies, including non-traditional housing types.
Relaxing zoning regulations can facilitate higher-density and mixed-use developments. Promoting alternative models like tiny homes, modular housing, and co-housing communities can provide cost-effective solutions.
Additionally, supporting accessory dwelling units (ADUs) allows homeowners to rent out extra spaces, boosting available housing. Public-private partnerships can enhance resource sharing, while utilizing state-owned land for affordable projects can reduce costs and speed up development.
Allocating funds to housing trust funds is also crucial for construction and preservation. Streamlining the permitting process will minimize delays and expenses.
Finally, supporting community land trusts can help maintain long-term affordability by removing land from the speculative market. Together, these strategies can significantly enhance the availability of affordable housing and create diverse living options for residents.
How should the state fund roads in light of the declining gas tax revenues?
To fund roads amid declining gas tax revenues, the state can explore several innovative approaches. First, reallocating existing tax revenues from other sectors, such as sales tax or income tax, specifically for transportation infrastructure can provide a stable funding source.
Additionally, public-private partnerships can finance road maintenance and improvements, leveraging private investment for public benefit. The state should also actively pursue federal funding opportunities, which can support large infrastructure projects and enhancements.
By diversifying funding sources and improving efficiency, the state can effectively address its road funding challenges.
What is your most important issue?
In a diverse district like the 7th, it’s challenging to identify a single most important issue. On the east side, the lack of jobs and affordable housing is a pressing concern, while the west side grapples with water rights. Throughout the district, people are worried about apex predators, but this issue may not resonate as strongly in urban areas like downtown Wenatchee or Deer Park.
Ultimately, many residents share common desires: safe, affordable housing, well-paying jobs with good benefits, and quality public schools that involve parents in their children’s education. Safety at home, work, and in recreational spaces is also a fundamental concern for everyone. If we can unite beyond party lines, we can address these varied issues effectively. Collaboration is key to finding solutions that enhance the quality of life for all residents in the 7th legislative district. By working together, we can create a stronger community that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of every citizen.
