Statement on City Planning and Development
The next City Council will face a major responsibility: approving a strategic master plan to guide Homewood’s growth and development for the next decade. This is one of the most important duties before us, and we are at a pivotal moment. Homewood faces several major challenges and opportunities—and none exist in isolation.
Brookwood Village is one of the city’s most critical redevelopment areas. Samford University will return with a revised expansion plan. And conversations with school and parks leaders make clear that we face major public capital campaigns ahead—resurfacing athletic fields and rebuilding two elementary schools among them.
These three issues—Brookwood, Samford, and public infrastructure—must be addressed as part of a cohesive strategy. We can’t afford disconnected or reactionary decisions. We must ask: How do we use development to support schools? How do we ensure growth is sustainable, equitable, and benefits current residents?
Brookwood must be a top priority—not just for revitalization, but for its potential to generate long-term revenue for our schools and services. We must get it right. Development isn’t just about buildings—it’s about impact. It must serve neighborhoods, strengthen schools, and reflect our values.
This is the work I’m ready to do—collaborative, future-focused, and grounded in a deep belief in Homewood’s potential.
Statement on Parking and Traffic
The recent reversal of course with Dawson clearly demonstrates that the City Council has the ability to collaborate with community partners, listen to public input, and reach meaningful agreements to address parking challenges. As a member of the Council, I will bring that same responsive and solution-oriented mindset to our city’s growing concerns around traffic and parking. There are no simple, one-size-fits-all formulas for these complex issues—but there are timely opportunities. I support a comprehensive approach that includes public-private partnerships, improved signage and wayfinding, and a long-term infrastructure plan that looks ahead 10 to 20 years. Creative solutions—such as shared-use agreements, smart traffic technology, and neighborhood-specific transit strategies—can help relieve pressure in our busiest areas. I am committed to working with residents, businesses, and planning professionals to ensure Homewood stays accessible, walkable, and vibrant for all.
Statement on Samford University
I have been the voice of a very public fight with Samford over their Creekside project. I am proud of that campaign and the people of Homewood who I represented. But let me be clear: I am not against Samford University. I spent over a decade as a professor at a mission-driven institution, and I deeply believe in the powerful, positive role a university can play in a community. Samford has every right to grow, and its success is an important part of Homewood’s future. That said, I believe Samford acted irresponsibly with the Creekside proposal—an overreach that did not reflect the responsibilities of a good neighbor. The concerns raised by residents were valid, and the process lacked the transparency and collaboration our community deserves. As Samford looks to future development, I am committed to working with them—openly and constructively—to find solutions that serve both the university and the people of Homewood. I will continue to fight against overdevelopment and stand with residents to ensure any growth stays within existing zoning guidelines and involves local, accountable partners. Progress must be mutual—never one-sided.
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Statement on Infrastructure and Citizen Concerns
One thing I’ve learned from listening to residents is that every concern—no matter how small—matters deeply to the person experiencing it. Whether it’s a sidewalk, speed bump, stop sign, or drainage issue, these are the real challenges that impact daily life and neighborhood safety.
I can’t promise every request will be fulfilled immediately. Like many cities, Homewood faces aging infrastructure, limited resources, and growing demands. But I can promise to listen with respect, compassion, and a genuine desire to help.
On City Council, I’ll advocate for smart, long-term planning that addresses both major infrastructure and the small fixes that improve everyday life. Everyone deserves to be heard—and I’ll lead with that belief at the center of everything I do.
Statement on Arts and Culture
Homewood has a real opportunity to grow as a hub for arts and culture—reflecting the creativity and diversity of our residents. We can better integrate the arts into public spaces, education, and community life by building on the strong foundation already in place. With over 25 years in arts administration and my current work at the Alabama School of Fine Arts, I bring a unique perspective on how creative programming can serve both youth and adults. I’d welcome the chance to work with residents, artists, schools, and cultural partners to imagine expanded access—from public art and workshops to shared performance spaces and cross-generational learning.
With collaboration and thoughtful planning, we can unlock something truly special for Homewood.