The challenges we face in New Castle County are deeply connected. Housing, open space, infrastructure, and affordability are not separate problems. They are all symptoms of a broken development model.
We can fix this by changing how we grow. These are the principles that guide my campaign.
 
            
    Preserve What Makes Us Special
We are losing open space faster than we can protect it. Parks, trails, and green buffers are not luxuries. They are core infrastructure. They raise property values, support public health, and help retain residents.
Parks Are Economic Tools
Across the country, cities have used green infrastructure to boost local economies. Delaware is small enough to do this quickly and affordably. We can become a destination for quality of life if we act now.
Call Land What It Is
The county currently zones public parks as “suburban estate.” That makes no sense. I will work to establish a true Open Space zoning category so we can clearly protect what is meant to stay public.
Fix the Economics of Growth
Developers currently profit most from sprawl because they are not paying the full cost. Those costs fall on taxpayers. I will work to align our zoning and incentive structures with development that pays its own way.
Build Places, Not Just Housing
When housing is built without walkability, parks, or access to jobs and schools, people leave. We can create real neighborhoods by combining housing with nearby shops, trails, and transit.
Start With Redevelopment
Vacant malls, underused parking lots, and outdated commercial zones can be transformed into mixed-use communities. We already have the roads, utilities, and zoning footprint. Let’s reuse what we have instead of paving new ground.
 
            
    Make Housing More Affordable by Design
We can’t solve the housing crisis by building more of the same. We need duplexes, row homes, and small apartments integrated into walkable neighborhoods. When we diversify housing types, we support a wider range of incomes.
Safer Neighborhoods Through Design
Public safety improves when neighborhoods are connected and active. Sidewalks, lighting, shared public spaces, and traffic calming help reduce crime and make communities feel safer.
Invest in What Works
Programs like the Hope Center and year-round youth employment have shown real impact. I will support expanding these kinds of services and focus our budget on strategies that support long-term stability.
 
            
    Keep Young People Here
Young adults are choosing to live in cities and towns that offer parks, culture, and walkability. We need to give them a reason to build a life in New Castle County. That starts with housing, transit, and a shared sense of place.
Support the Next Generation
Young people need jobs, mentorship, and a visible role in the future of our communities. I will expand programs that support youth leadership and make sure young voices are part of our decision-making.
Build Inclusive Communities
Strong neighborhoods include people of all ages, backgrounds, and incomes. I will support zoning reforms that make mixed-income housing possible and promote policies that allow everyone to find a place to belong.
Less Traffic Starts With Smarter Design
When communities are built to support walking, biking, and transit, everyone benefits. We can reduce congestion, lower household costs, and increase quality of life by building places where people do not have to drive everywhere.
Improve Public Transit Access
Our transit systems need to be more reliable and better connected. I will work with regional partners to increase access to transportation, especially in areas that have been historically underserved.
Green Infrastructure Matters
Stormwater systems, tree cover, bike lanes, and connected sidewalks should be part of every development conversation. These features improve health, reduce long-term costs, and make our communities more resilient.
