Issues
A central question of my campaign for city council is: Are people able to affordably and safely age in place in Overland Park? There are many issues that directly touch on this question, including housing, transportation, and land use.
Housing
There are simply not enough housing options for older residents who are ready to downsize but who are not yet ready to move to an independent or assisted living community. They may be able to sell their current home but fear they won’t find a new one they can afford. Overland Park needs more housing options at different prices to ensure that all residents can live and thrive in the city they call home.
Transportation
It is virtually impossible to thrive in Overland Park without a personal vehicle. What happens when our grandparents, parents, or ourselves must give up driving due to an illness, disability, or other life-changing event? We need to rethink our transportation system from a system that moves only cars to one that moves people. People should have the option to live in a neighborhood where it is safe, easy, and comfortable to walk, bike, or take the bus to get your groceries, prescriptions, go to church, or eat at your favorite restaurant.
Land Use
The decisions we make about land use, zoning requirements, development, and redevelopment projects will determine the choices residents have about where they live, how they live, and how easy it is to connect to the people, places, and activities that are important to them. Overland Park’s approach to land use and development must balance business interests with our residents’ overall quality of life.
