Issues
1.) Supporting College Students & Retaining Talent
Dubuque has done a great job recruiting college students from diverse communities, but we’ve neglected to focus on keeping them here after graduation and supporting their continued education. It’s time to invest in initiatives that not only retain our graduates but also provide opportunities for them to further their education right here in Dubuque.
I propose creating a grant program that will offer financial assistance for graduate studies, professional development, and opportunities for continued learning.
Why This Matters:
1. Economic Growth: Retaining college graduates helps to build a strong, skilled workforce that drives innovation and economic development in Dubuque.
2. Community Stability: Graduates who stay in the city will contribute to long-term growth, helping create a vibrant, sustainable community that attracts further investment.
3. Talent Retention: By providing the right incentives and opportunities, we can ensure that Dubuque remains competitive and continues to attract top talent for years to come.
2.) Economic Growth & Opportunity
Dubuque is at a crossroads, and while we must continue to provide tax incentives to attract and support large corporations, we cannot overlook the small businesses and non-profits that are the backbone of our community. It's especially important that we invest in local businesses, particularly those run by women and the Black community, as well as non-profits that are making a real difference.
By the end of my first term, I will work to secure a 20% increase in funding and resources for small businesses, especially those run by women and the Black community, and establish a city-backed initiative to support non-profits, ensuring they have the tools needed to thrive and make a lasting impact in Dubuque.
Why This Matters:
By fostering innovation and expanding opportunities for everyone, we can build a stronger, more resilient economy that benefits all of Dubuque.
3.) Transparency & Representation
To truly represent Dubuque, we must demand transparency from our city administration and ensure that the City Council reflects the diversity of our community. It’s not enough to have diverse populations in our city; these communities must be actively represented at the decision-making table. With 13.4% of Dubuque’s population being non-white (U.S. Census Bureau, 2020), including African American, Hispanic, and Asian communities, it’s clear that our City Council does not currently reflect the people it serves. As a member of the Black community and the youngest candidate to run for City Council, I am committed to bridging this gap and ensuring that all voices, especially those of historically underrepresented groups, are heard and represented in city governance.
I will host town halls, focusing on the North End, to engage with residents, listen to their concerns, and rebuild trust within our diverse communities.
Why This Matters:
1. Equitable Decision-Making: When City Council members reflect the diversity of our community, they are better equipped to make decisions that address the unique needs and concerns of all residents. Ensuring proper representation means that policies and initiatives are more likely to serve everyone fairly, especially underrepresented groups who often feel sidelined in city planning and development.
2. Restoring Trust and Engagement: Members of the Black and younger communities in Dubuque are experiencing a growing distrust of city government due to a lack of representation and engagement. By ensuring that these communities have a voice on the City Council, we can rebuild that trust, encourage active participation, and create a more collaborative environment where all residents feel heard and valued.