Voting every 4 years is where Democracy Starts.
Not where it ends.
Burlington’s own Community Engagement Charter commits the city to five levels of resident participation. Most decisions stop at “Inform.” I intend to reach “Empower.”
The public is not a risk to be managed. In Ward 2, the public is the most powerful resource we have. My governance model is built on that belief — practically, accountably, and from day one.
Before decisions: Structured community consultations before major votes — not town halls where decisions have already been made.
After decisions: Plain-language report-back within 48 hours of every major council vote — what was decided, why, and how your input did or did not influence the outcome.
Standing access: A Ward 2 Residents Panel — a diverse, rotating group of ordinary residents who meet with me regularly, not just the organized groups who already know how to find City Hall.
BURLINGTON ENGAGEMENT CHARTER - MY COMMITMENT
Inform
Residents receive clear, timely information on all Ward 2 matters
Consult
Feedback is sought before decisions are made, not after
Involve
Residents shape the options, not just react to them
Collaborate
We develop solutions together - Ward 2 Residents Panel
Empower ← My Goal
Residents have real decision-making power in Ward 2 - not just input.