Serving as mayor is a daily reminder that leadership works best when it feels hopeful and rooted in service. Buellton is not just a city I help lead; it is a place I care deeply about, where neighbors wave from across the street, and the future feels full of possibilities. My vision is simple: progress should improve daily life, strengthen connection, and honor the character that makes our community special.
One of our key focuses has been strengthening Buellton’s economic vitality in thoughtful, intentional ways. Along Avenue of Flags and Industrial Way, we are supporting reinvestment and business growth that brings jobs, services, and renewed energy to our city. The goal is not growth for growth’s sake, but community space that provides new areas of connection and commerce for Buellton.
Economic progress must go hand in hand with housing that meets real community needs. Buellton is actively integrating new affordable housing into existing neighborhoods while remaining mindful of traffic, utilities, and infrastructure. These projects are about people — families, veterans, and seniors — and about being a city that welcomes new neighbors while helping everyone feel connected and supported.
We have also invested in the places that bring us together. The opening of Buellton’s new library was a joyful milestone, creating a shared space for learning, creativity, and connection across generations. Building on that momentum, we are investing in the Children’s Museum, scheduled to open in summer 2026, giving families a place to explore, imagine, and grow together.
Partnership has been essential to our progress. Buellton proudly joined with the City of Solvang to make a shared million-dollar pledge toward the Santa Ynez Valley Aquatics Center. This collaboration moves the long-anticipated community pool closer to reality and shows how much we can accomplish when we work together.
Caring for our environment is also caring for our community. Our 1,000 Trees Initiative is a service-based investment in sustainability, neighborhood beauty, and climate resilience. Trees cool our streets, improve air quality, and make everyday spaces feel more welcoming and alive.
We are equally excited about progress on the Santa Ynez River Trail. The first segment through Buellton is now in the design process, turning a long-held vision into something tangible. It is a reminder that patience, planning, and collaboration can turn big ideas into shared experiences.
Buellton continues to invest in arts and culture because creativity brings people together. Community art projects and cultural programming add color, story, and personality to our public spaces. These efforts support local artists and create moments of connection that make everyday life feel richer.
Accessibility matters, and inclusion should feel natural. We have invested in ADA accessible playground features so children of all abilities can play side by side, laugh together, and feel welcome. Thoughtful design helps ensure our city works for everyone.
Looking ahead, we are updating Buellton’s General Plan to guide our city through 2050. This work is about preparing responsibly for the future while preserving what people love most about Buellton. It is a chance to dream, plan, and grow with intention.
Importantly, we have done all of this while maintaining a responsible annual budget and healthy reserves. We have invested in local nonprofits addressing food insecurity, educational support, social services, and animal welfare, while staying fiscally disciplined. Stewardship means caring for people today and protecting stability for tomorrow.
At the heart of everything we do is communication and connection. We work to listen, explain the why behind decisions, and invite community voices into the process. Leadership is strongest when it feels transparent, collaborative, and grounded in trust.
Being mayor is an honor I carry with gratitude and joy. Buellton’s future feels bright because of the people who show up, care deeply, and believe in what we can build together. With optimism, service, and a shared sense of purpose, we are creating a city that continues to feel like home.
I am constantly inspired by conversations at the grocery store, messages from residents, and moments of shared laughter at community events. Those everyday interactions remind me why local government matters so much. It is about showing up consistently, staying curious, and being willing to listen even when conversations are hard. Joy lives in the work when people feel seen and respected. My hope is that Buellton continues to be a place where optimism is practical, kindness is common, and the future feels inviting. Together, we can keep building a city that reflects our best instincts, supports one another, and moves forward with confidence and warmth.
It is a privilege to serve alongside dedicated staff, council members, volunteers, neighbors, and friends who care deeply about this place and its people, and who remind me daily that progress feels best when it is shared. That spirit guides our work in 2026 and beyond.
