My Key Initiatives
“My platform and initiatives to begin working on immediately was created by visiting businesses, knocking down 100’s of houses (and counting) and by collecting actual data. I listened, and I’m still listening. Please share your thoughts below about what you want to see in your community and what you want from me as your Alderman.”
-Gabrielle
Resident Services
An informed people is an empowered people! Therefore, it is my goal to elevate resident services in the 5th Ward. When you reach out to your Alderman, you should always get a response. Whether the outcome is good or bad, I will work to help you find a resolution to your issues. Using my education and background in advanced communication, I have created a robust communication strategy in order for us to foster greater engagement. I want to hold monthly (or bi-monthly) meetings in person and virtually and establish a time for regular office hours. You deserve communication about what is happening in the city that impacts you and the ability to make recommendations. Many times, the answer exists, it’s just difficult to navigate to who can help. I want to provide you with information and direct you to as many resources as I can.
I will also provide you with a monthly newsletter, consistent social media content, and this website which will expand to meet your constituent needs. You will remain informed of city resources if you are a resident or a business owner. I believe our business owners should have access to information about workshops, grants, and funding opportunities. They should also be aware of services and resources regarding how to deal with and overcome the impact of COVID-19. You will not be left behind due to a lack of information, it my pleasure to provide it to you. I will also be present and accessible. You also deserve an Alderman that attends community events and makes you feel supported. I have the energy and mobility the Southside needs.
Business And Economic Development
The development and attraction of new businesses to the Southside is paramount towards the sustained revitalization of our community. We have to believe that the rehabilitation of the Embassy Suites was just the beginning of what could be for South Rockford.
I have specific plans and strategies created that I will unveil on day one when elected.
Many entities have divested from the Barber Colman project, however, I still have great hope in what this development could possibly be. I support a large scale project, however, with that we still have the opportunity to create a mixed-use space that meets the needs of the 5th ward. This large piece of land has the potential to house many types of economic drivers and I believe we should remain open to immense possibilities. There is a delicate balance needed when fighting for new businesses while also fighting for the soul of the community to withstand gentrification. This can only be accomplished if it’s developed with the right investors and the right community partners in mind.
I want to ensure that we are exploring the possibilities of new funding and development opportunities that come to us and we are not passing up the chance to significantly improve South Rockford. I also want to see equity practiced amongst minority-owned contractors and unions to ensure fairness happens in bidding practices.
Many 5th Ward constituents have expressed their desires to me for more activities for families and youth. As a result, I have already begun conversations with the Rockford Park District concerning development projects and unused recreational spaces. I wholeheartedly believe that recreation and entertainment venues are critically important to the vitality of the Southside.
Lastly, to my business owners, I want to build solid relationships with you. I want to do my best to work with you and not against you. It is my wish to provide you with the necessary city resources you need to be successful. I want to be supportive of your business ideas and work towards establishing positive working relationships.
Targeted Community Outreach
I plan to launch a targeted, comprehensive community outreach strategy which focuses on the development and expansion of programming that responds to community needs. I look forward to strengthening partnerships with existing businesses and community centers by leveraging the spaces and resources within South Rockford to support the creation of programs that not only service needs, but also target and prevent problems.
My Targeted Community Outreach plan will focus on, but is not limited to, the following areas:
Civic Engagement
Domestic and Sexual Violence
ESL Classes
GED Classes
Immigration & Welcome Services
Jobs and Unemployment
Mental Health Services
Youth Services