Issues

Tackling The Homeless Crisis

As of recently, the city has purchased a plot of land at 205 Reed Ave. to build a shelter. This will open up beds for those on the street. However, the fight has just begun. Russell's goal in his next two years will be to fight for beds and case management systems as the city takes on this project.

Tackling Transportation:

As our city grows, the systems and modes of transportation we use must grow with us. The goal here is to not only to fight for more bus stops in lower income communities, but to tackle the Last Mile, which is the last stretch of commuting that many have to tackle on a day to day basis when relying on public, affordable transportation. 

 

Revitalizing Business Districts

Lindsey Street was once the center of our town, however currently, many businesses are struggling in this historic part of our town. With it getting more difficult to survive in the area. West Main street has its own set of challenges as well, working with businesses to comprehend what can be done to support them. Russell's goal is to focus on economic development to revitalize the suffering areas and to create community events to bring various areas back to life which will support existing business owners in the area while bringing new ones in as well. 

 

Connecting Directly with the Community

Understanding that you don't know everything is the first step to truly serving a community. His goal is to listen and coordinate with typically marginalized populations, as well as other community populations, to figure out how to best serve the community. When working with the community, ensuring we work with all age groups, including students, young students, is important. 

 

Beyond Affordable Housing

As we move towards developing areas, housing is always a factor. Not only does Russell want to push for more affordable housing infrastructures, he wants to take it a step further and work with the city to ensure that those who are struggling with housing options are able to find solutions to break the cycle of housing insecurity.  For example finding jobs within these new housing projects would give long-term solutions.

​

Giving Citizens a Voice/Vote on the TIF

As part of his role as ORED board chair, he and his team collected 11,602 petition signatures to secure a voting position on the ballot on the area TIF district. His role in organizing the volunteers within 27 days was crucial and rewarding.