COVID - 19

There's no denying that the current pandemic has had a profound impact on our way of life, economic security, and small businesses. We know that not everyone has been equally impacted by COVID, and that it has hit communities of color and low income communities the hardest. My heart goes out to anyone who has been personally impacted by COVID-19 in any way. 

As a property owner during the pandemic and working in social services programs, I have seen the diverse ways the pandemic has impacted households and businesses.  It informs my belief that our Covid relief programs need to be flexible and communicated in ways that are guaranteed to reach those most in need. Our COVID recovery plan needs to be equitable, transparent, and flexible to the needs of everyone who works or lives in Alexandria. 

We must recognize that the needs of each family and business will differ. 

• Renters may need rental programs that are designed to help pay off rent and utility balances. 
• Landlords may need mortgage assistance or building repair support for deferred maintenance issues as a result of a delay of regular maintenance due to COVID.
• Members of our workforce may require job training as former jobs are no longer available and new skills are needed to re-enter the workforce in a new role.  
• For businesses, the road to recovery is going to be unpredictable and likely uneven. After the pandemic subsides, Alexandrians may not replicate their spending and social habits as before and businesses will need financial supports that are considerate of those challenges such as rent relief programs and expanding adaptive practices like take away alcohol programs and sidewalk eateries.  

Where we can, we should use COVID relief funding to fund local programs to aggressively tackle our infrastructure needs, including sewer and stormwater runoff the conditions of our streets and sidewalks, and maintenance of our green spaces and parks. 

Restoring our community also applies to the development of a Collective Bargaining Agreement with our City workers. I support an Agreement that grants those in the necessary labor categories the ability to advocate for their needs and pursue appropriate wages and working conditions. To remain a competitive marketplace, our Council needs to press for an Agreement that will  incentivize people to build their careers in Alexandria.  

I plan to guarantee that the city's efforts moving forward in resolving the pandemic and preparing for future global health emergencies is considerate and conscious of the diverse population needs of Alexandria.