Issues

Important Issues

Issues and Positions

While I have my own views on issues, I fundamentally believe that an elected official must listen to and advocate for their constituents above all else. I am not campaigning to be a full-time politician or interested in external advocacy endorsements – instead my goal is to represent my Ward 2 neighbors. I will be a voice for you – amplifying your concerns, championing your priorities and fighting to improve our city.

Affordable Living

Affordable Living is the most important issue I’m hearing from residents. In addition to inflation, affordable housing is a critical issue not only for our lower income residents, but also for young families and retirees who want to downsize. It is also a significant contributor to our rising homelessness. When so many residents are challenged with affordable living, we must be cautious about increasing property taxes right now. Instead, the city needs to practice fiscal stewardship, prioritizing expenses and major infrastructure projects.

Public Safety 

Public safety is imperative for our community to continue to be one of the best places to live in America. I am committed to making sure our police and fire department are fully staffed and trained. We also need to support our police to be guardians, not just protectors, by also providing resources for community policing, incorporating co-responders and social services to respond to community needs in crisis. 

Inclusive Community

We need to be an inclusive community where everyone is welcome, safe, respected and has an equal opportunity to thrive.  Diversity, equity and inclusion is a lens through which we should make all critical decisions, considering the needs of all our residents, no matter race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, age or mobility.

Affordable Housing 

Making Rochester an affordable place to live is crucial. The past decade has focused on building luxury apartments and we need to pivot to affordable homeownership. We need to make the process easier for builders and homeowners, and eliminate hurdles that slow down the building process. The City also needs to continue to partner with other community stakeholders on solutions. Affordable homeownership will expand stability, equity and prosperity across our community.

Fiscal Stewardship 

We must focus on prudent and sustainable investments and be fiscal stewards of our resources. In addition, we need to ensure the City can support the total cost of ownership and ongoing maintenance before initiating major new projects. Fixing core commitments like sidewalks, parks, bike trails must take top priority. 

Economic Growth 

I will work to support existing small businesses and entrepreneurs while also attracting investments and new businesses through grants, loans and mentorship.  Small business owners also need the city to facilitate affordable homeownership, public transportation and other amenities to help them recruit and retain employees.

Homelessness

Homelessness is a condition, not a choice, and the city needs to make this a stronger priority. Addressing homelessness, particularly among those with mental health issues, requires a multifaceted approach and public-private partnerships that consider healthcare, housing, employment and social services. The city and county also have opportunities to partner together to help those who are on the edge to keep their housing.

Sustainability 

We cannot move fast enough as a society to address the climate crisis. I will advocate for environmentally-friendly policies like renewable energy, waste reduction, and green infrastructure to protect our natural resources for future generations. 

Public Transportation 

Enhancing public transit is a priority to make Rochester a liveable and affordable city, as well as to reduce traffic/emissions. I support the future bus rapid transit system for downtown, as well as supporting alternative fuel vehicles. We also need alternative modes of transportation and safe access roads for them, as well as clear access routes for our residents and the 3 million visitors to our city each year.

Civic Engagement 

I want to hear from you – email me at trippwelchcampaign@gmail.com or stop me on the street – to share your thoughts and concerns. Ward 2 resident engagement is critical given the future plans for expanding downtown. If elected, I will uphold transparency through town halls, online forums, and citizen committees to keep you informed and involved in local government.