Why I don't take developer money

People often hear me say, "I don't take money from developers."

That's true, but it's worth explaining what I mean and why.

This policy isn't about being anti-development.

In fact, I support smart growth, walkable neighborhoods, housing choices, local investment, and revitalizing underused properties. Good development can make our communities stronger.

This policy is about independence.

The concern isn't that developers have opinions. They should. The concern is that some people and organizations have a much larger financial stake in government decisions than the average resident.

When a teacher, nurse, retiree, or small business owner supports a campaign, they're usually supporting a vision for the community they want to live in.

When a large development interest supports a campaign, they may also believe in that vision. But they often stand to gain financially from future government decisions related to zoning, land use, incentives, infrastructure, or development approvals.

Even when everyone acts in good faith, that creates a relationship that can undermine public trust.

I want residents to know that when I make decisions about growth and development, those decisions are based on what is best for the community, not on who helped fund my campaign.

I do not accept campaign contributions from:

• Large-scale development firms
• Principals or owners of large-scale development firms
• Bundled fundraising efforts organized by development interests
• Individuals or organizations seeking significant financial gain from land-use, zoning, or development decisions that fall under the authority of the office I am seeking.

This policy is not aimed at ordinary residents simply because they happen to work in real estate, construction, or related fields.

For example:

• A contractor
• A tradesperson
• A small property owner
• Someone renovating a duplex
• An architect or engineer who lives in the community

These are residents first. They have the same right to participate in the political process as anyone else.

The goal is not to exclude people from the conversation.

If elected, I will meet with developers.  I will listen to developers. I will sometimes agree with developers.

Development plays an important role in our county, and good ideas can come from anywhere.

What I won't do is give anyone a louder voice because they can write a larger check.

Developers deserve a seat at the table. Residents deserve confidence that nobody gets to buy a better seat.

That's the principle behind this policy.