Ben's Primary Focuses
There are many problems affecting the residents of Charlotte. Here are a few of the most important to Ben.
Housing
The soaring costs of housing in Charlotte have become a pressing concern in recent years. As a future dedicated member of the City Council, I am committed to implementing effective solutions to address this issue. My primary focus will be to spearhead the creation of affordable housing projects, making it a top priority to ensure that every resident has access to safe and affordable housing options.
In addition, I firmly believe in safeguarding homeowners from the burden of increased payments resulting from recent property evaluations. It is crucial to protect homeowners from sudden and excessive financial strain, and I will actively work to develop policies and initiatives that provide the necessary safeguards and support.
Furthermore, I am a strong advocate for the passage of the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). This comprehensive legislation will play a vital role in shaping the future of our city, promoting responsible and sustainable development while prioritizing affordable housing initiatives. By championing the UDO, we can create a framework that fosters equitable growth, enhances community well-being, and safeguards the long-term affordability of housing in Charlotte.
As a member of the City Council, I am dedicated to taking decisive action to alleviate the affordability crisis in our community. By collaborating with community stakeholders, developers, and fellow council members, I will work diligently to implement sustainable and inclusive housing policies that benefit all residents.
Together, let us ensure that Charlotte remains an affordable, livable, and thriving city for current and future generations. By enacting effective measures, promoting equitable development, and fostering a sense of community, we can create a brighter and more affordable future for all.
Public Safety
Creating a safe and secure community is a shared aspiration for all residents. As a future member of the City Council, it will be our responsibility to foster a positive and constructive relationship between our police force and the community they serve.
Building trust and effective communication between law enforcement and community members is essential in ensuring public safety. We must work towards establishing a framework that promotes transparency, accountability, and mutual respect.
To achieve this, the City Council will actively engage in initiatives that prioritize community policing strategies. This approach involves proactive collaboration between law enforcement and community stakeholders, encouraging dialogue, and addressing concerns together. By promoting community-oriented policing practices, we can enhance understanding, promote positive interactions, and build lasting relationships.
Furthermore, it is crucial that we prioritize equitable policing practices. We must ensure that law enforcement officers are well-trained, culturally competent, and sensitive to the diverse needs of our community. By promoting fair and unbiased policing, we can address systemic disparities and strive towards justice and equality for all.
In addition to fostering positive police-community relations, we must also invest in community-based initiatives that address the root causes of crime. By supporting programs that focus on education, mental health services, youth development, and job opportunities, we can create a supportive environment that reduces crime and enhances community well-being.
As a future member of the City Council, I am committed to working diligently toward building a safe and inclusive community. By actively engaging with the police department, community leaders, and residents, we can forge a positive relationship that promotes trust, cooperation, and ultimately ensures the safety and security of all.
Infrastructure
Charlotte's remarkable population growth over the past few decades has presented both opportunities and challenges for our city. While the City Council has made commendable strides in modernizing our infrastructure, such as airport and park upgrades, there is a pressing need to further expand these efforts to include bridges and roadways.
As a responsive future member of the City Council, I recognize the critical importance of ensuring our infrastructure keeps pace with our growing population. It is essential that we prioritize the modernization and improvement of our bridges and roadways to enhance connectivity, alleviate congestion, and provide safe and efficient transportation options for all residents.
By investing in infrastructure upgrades, we can not only address current challenges but also lay a solid foundation for sustainable growth and development. This includes implementing innovative solutions that promote smart city initiatives, enhance digital connectivity, and optimize the utilization of transportation resources.
Zoning and Land Use
Zoning plays a pivotal role in shaping the values of property and influencing the lifestyles of residents within a city. As a future responsible member of the council, I have a duty to make thoughtful and strategic decisions that prioritize the well-being of our citizens, support affordable housing options, and prevent the adverse effects of gentrification.
It is essential to approach zoning decisions with a comprehensive understanding of the unique needs and characteristics of our communities. We must work towards a balance that encourages diverse housing options, including low-cost housing, while preserving the integrity and identity of our neighborhoods. By implementing zoning policies that promote mixed-income developments and affordable housing initiatives, we can create an inclusive city where everyone can find a place to call home.
Furthermore, we must proactively address the challenges posed by gentrification. It is crucial to protect vulnerable communities from displacement and ensure their ability to thrive in their neighborhoods. This requires a multifaceted approach that combines affordable housing preservation, community engagement, and the implementation of equitable development strategies. By involving residents and community stakeholders in the decision-making process, we can ensure that their voices are heard and their needs are taken into account.
In addition to housing considerations, zoning decisions should prioritize the health and well-being of our citizens. This includes thoughtful planning that supports access to essential services, green spaces, transportation options, and quality amenities. By creating sustainable and walkable communities, we can enhance the overall quality of life for our residents and foster a sense of belonging.
Economic Growth
Charlotte's remarkable population growth has been accompanied by an explosive expansion in our economy, offering employment and entertainment opportunities for our diverse community. As we move forward, it is imperative that we sustain this growth in a responsible and measured manner, ensuring long-term prosperity for all residents of our city.
To achieve this, we must prioritize strategic projects that contribute to the continued development and revitalization of our community. One such project is the completion of the Eastland Mall Project, which has the potential to become a transformative endeavor for our city. By reviving this area and transforming it into a vibrant hub of commerce, culture, and community engagement, we can create new avenues for economic growth and enhance the quality of life for our residents.
However, responsible growth is not just about completing specific projects—it also involves thoughtful planning, community engagement, and a commitment to sustainability. We must strike a balance between economic development and preserving the unique character of our neighborhoods. By investing in sustainable infrastructure, fostering small business growth, and encouraging diverse industries, we can ensure that economic opportunities are accessible to all segments of our society.
Additionally, as we pursue economic growth, it is crucial to prioritize initiatives that promote inclusivity and address disparities. This includes working towards equitable access to education, healthcare, and affordable housing. By nurturing a thriving and inclusive ecosystem, we can create an environment where all residents can contribute to and benefit from the city's prosperity.
As a future member of the City Council, I am dedicated to driving responsible and calibrated growth in Charlotte. I will advocate for strategic investments, foster collaboration between public and private sectors, and ensure that our economic development aligns with the needs and aspirations of our citizens.
Environment
In 2018, Charlotte unveiled the ambitious Sustainable Energy Action Plan "SEAP," signaling its commitment to a sustainable future. The plan aims to transition to all-electric vehicles by 2030 and reduce CO2 emissions to below two tons per person per year by 2050. As a dedicated future member of the council, I am resolute in my commitment to ensuring the successful achievement of these goals, with a particular focus on facilitating the adoption of all-electric vehicles for CMPD and city vehicles.
To fulfill these objectives, I will work tirelessly to promote and support the electrification of our city's transportation fleet. By collaborating with relevant stakeholders, seeking funding opportunities, and advocating for necessary infrastructure development, we can accelerate the transition to electric vehicles. This will not only reduce harmful emissions but also contribute to cleaner air, improved public health, and a more sustainable environment for all residents.
Furthermore, I recognize the importance of leading by example. As a council member, I will advocate for the implementation of environmentally friendly practices within city operations. This includes ensuring that city vehicles are progressively replaced with electric alternatives, embracing energy-efficient technologies, and exploring renewable energy sources for powering municipal facilities. By demonstrating our commitment to sustainability, we can inspire others and drive positive change throughout our community.
Additionally, I understand the significance of ongoing monitoring and evaluation of our progress. As a council member, I will diligently oversee the implementation of the SEAP plan, regularly assessing milestones, and adjusting strategies as needed. By maintaining accountability and transparency, we can effectively track our achievements and identify areas for improvement.
Together, let us embrace the vision of a cleaner, greener future for Charlotte. By fulfilling the goals outlined in the SEAP plan, particularly the transition to all-electric vehicles for CMPD and city vehicles, we can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient city that future generations can be proud of.
As a future member of the council, I am committed to working collaboratively with fellow members, community partners, and residents to realize these objectives. Let us be at the forefront of sustainable practices, shaping a city that prioritizes the well-being of its residents while preserving our environment for years to come.