I'm Running!

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I’ve loved Salem my whole life. We are surrounded by history, beautiful coastline, and strong, vibrant communities. As an active volunteer, leader, scholar, activist, and musician, I’m excited to bring my talents and skills into public service. I am pleased to announce my candidacy to represent Ward 2 on the Salem City Council.

With a background in academia, ministry, and nonprofit organizations, I have cultivated my ability to listen and learn from those around me. As an engaged member of the Salem community, I’ve listened to a wide array of resident voices. I’ve heard ideas and concerns as well as plans and disagreements. I’ve thoughtfully considered the range of perspectives and needs expressed. Now I wish to offer this attentive, open, thoughtful responsiveness as a city councillor. I would be honored to work in collaboration with other city leaders on behalf of the Ward 2 community.

I am running for office because I am frustrated. Too often decisions are made without full community engagement and enough data-driven research essential to enact effective change. 

I am committed to engaging collaboratively to resolve issues. The best way forward is to listen broadly and intently to the many perspectives within our community as well as learn from the experiences and lessons in other communities. Effective and responsive decisions regarding traffic, for example, necessitate both community conversations in addition to quality research and scholarship to learn about and evaluate the implications.

We have work to do. Climate resilience, especially as sea levels rise, must be a central priority. We must upgrade Salem’s infrastructure to protect against flooding and provide sustainable transit opportunities. We must also work together to combat the rising cost of living in Salem. Well considered and deliberate growth is essential to ensure our city thrives. Our residents need access to affordable housing, and community-oriented businesses need paths to grow.

I will bring active and community-focused consideration of issues into public service. I will collaborate with residents, local businesses and organizations as well as with the Mayor and other city leaders to ensure all voices are heard. As a city councillor, I will continue approaching disagreement differently. The best way to navigate our path forward is to listen to the needs and wants of our community and to voices of experience within and beyond Salem.

I look forward to building more relationships within our community. I invite you to connect with me and my campaign. Visit newhallforsalem.com to learn more and consider donating or volunteering to help as we move Salem forward together.