Vanessa delivered over 150 meals to low-income seniors during the pandemic.
PRIORITIES
"My priority will be to apply decades of local community service experience to the important work that Council does. I will use my professional skills as a lawyer to carefully review and critically analyze the issues, to listen empathetically, and to ask tough questions. I will follow the same basic philosophy that I learned years ago: if you see a need, and you have the means, just do it."
ENDING HOMELESSNESS
I've delivered real results: securing state funding for Salem's Navigation Center and 24/7 warming shelter, championing affordable housing for veterans and low-income seniors, and ensuring our sit-lie ordinance is tied to actual shelter access. As Mayor, I'll look to expanding mental health services, opening a sobering center, and strengthening our safety net through food banks and domestic violence prevention—because compassion must be paired with action.
YOUR TAX DOLLARS, HANDLED RIGHT
Trust requires transparency. I've opposed payroll taxes without voter approval and spent years on the Citizen Budget Committee—elected Vice-Chair with bipartisan support. I pushed for a police department performance audit to boost efficiency and accountability. As Mayor, I'll deliver maximum value for every taxpayer dollar.
KEEPING SALEM SAFE
Recent shootings prove we need adequate staffing for our growing city. As Mayor, I'll ensure our first responders have the staffing and resources to protect families and respond quickly in emergencies—because every second counts when lives are on the line.
MAKING HOUSING AFFORDABLE
When families spend half their income on rent, they're one crisis away from homelessness. I've consistently voted for affordable housing projects across Salem, but we need bolder action. As Mayor, I'll cut red tape to accelerate construction of apartments, tiny homes, and middle housing—making Salem affordable for working families again.
A VIBRANT, SAFE DOWNTOWN
Our downtown is Salem's heart. I grew up working retail here and understand what businesses, residents, and visitors need to thrive. As Mayor, I'll partner with a variety of stakeholders to make downtown cleaner, safer, and more welcoming for everyone—a place where families want to shop, dine, and gather.
LIBRARIES THAT SERVE EVERYONE
Thousands of Salem families rely on our library every week. I championed the 2025 Livability Levy to expand library branches, services, and staffing. As Mayor, I'll continue fighting to ensure every neighborhood has access to this vital community resource.
PARKS AND GREEN SPACES FOR ALL
Salem's 90+ parks belong to everyone. I championed the Livability Levy to make our parks safer, more accessible, and better maintained. As Mayor, I'll protect our green spaces and ensure every family can enjoy the outdoors.
SUPPORTING OUR YOUTH
Salem's teen mental health crisis demands urgent action. Too many young lives have been lost to suicide. As Mayor, I'll expand kid-friendly city programming that builds connection and community—giving our youth hope and belonging when they need it most.
STRENGTHENING CENTER 50+
Our senior center provides wellness, community, and vital support to countless Salem seniors. I championed the Livability Levy to protect these services. As Mayor, I'll ensure our seniors have the resources and respect they deserve.