Accomplishments

Bellevue has emerged as a major economic hub, and I have worked to foster an environment that supports businesses of all sizes.

• Supporting Small Businesses & Startups

• • • Organized equity crowdfunding workshops to help local startups access capital.
    • Advocated for small business resources to help entrepreneurs grow and scale their companies.

• Expanding Economic Opportunity

• Led efforts to update Bellevue’s Economic Development Plan, reinforcing our position as the second-largest employment hub in Washington State.

• Strengthened partnerships with major tech employers and promoted workforce training programs.

Housing affordability remains a top priority. I have worked to increase affordable housing options and strengthen services for those in need.

• Increasing Affordable Housing

• • Helped secure partnerships with organizations like Amazon’s Housing Equity Fund, which has helped double Bellevue’s affordable housing stock—adding nearly 1,500 units for residents earning up to 80% of the area median income.
• Advocating for Housing Solutions Regionally
  • I serve on the King County Affordable Housing Committee, advocating for funding and policies that increase affordable housing across our region.
  • Previously served on the Eastside Human Services Forum Executive Board, supporting human services policies that assist Bellevue’s most vulnerable residents.

I am committed to making Bellevue a leader in sustainability and preserving our city’s natural beauty.

• Leading Regional Climate Action

• Represent Bellevue in the King County-Cities Climate Collaboration, working on regional strategies to reduce emissions and prepare for climate challenges.

• Investing in Parks & Open Spaces

• Championed park expansions and improvements, ensuring all Bellevue residents have access to quality green spaces.
• Advocated for enhancements at the Bellevue Botanical Garden and community parks.

Bellevue is growing rapidly, and I have prioritized smart investments in transportation to reduce congestion and improve mobility.

• Bringing Light Rail to Bellevue

• Oversaw key milestones in the light rail expansion, with the Eastside starter line launching in spring 2024 and full completion expected in 2025.

• Ensured Bellevue’s transportation plans align with transit-oriented development goals.

Public safety and community well-being are at the heart of my work.

• Expanding Crisis Response Services

• • • Helped implement the CCAT crisis response unit, which connects individuals in crisis with the appropriate care and services, reducing unnecessary law enforcement involvement.

• Enhancing Emergency Preparedness

• • Supported funding for Bellevue’s Wildland Fire Program expansion, providing resources and specialized training to address increasing wildfire threats.

• Historic Third Term as Mayor

• • Unanimously elected to a third consecutive term in January 2024, making me the first Bellevue Mayor to serve three consecutive terms in the city’s 71-year history.
• Advocating for Bellevue at the Regional Level
  • Work closely with local and state leaders to ensure Bellevue’s priorities are represented in county and state policy discussions.