Michael's Priorities

I was born with a physical disability called Spina Bifida, which affects my legs and back, and specifically my balance. Growing up living with a disability gives me a unique perspective on what Hyattsville, and specifically Ward 5, needs to be accessible to all. As the next council member for Ward 5, I will:

• Push for Infrastructure Accessibility Audits: Conduct assessments of public spaces, transit systems, and city services to identify and address accessibility barriers.​
   
• Expand Programs for Individuals with Disabilities: Develop initiatives that cater to the unique needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities, ensuring inclusive participation in community life.​
   
• Create an Disabilities Advisory Commission: Develop initiatives that cater to the unique needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities, ensuring inclusive participation in community life.​

As a member of the Hyattsville Education Advisory Committee for the last 2 years, I have a firm understanding of our schools and their needs. As your next member of the city council, I will work every day to:

• Expand Educational Advancement Grants: Continue and increase funding for grants that support local schools and community organizations in launching impactful programs, such as arts and humanities initiatives and environmental education projects.​
   
• Support After-School Programs: Develop and fund after-school activities that provide safe, enriching environments for students, fostering creativity and learning beyond the classroom.​
   
• Enhance School-Community Partnerships: Foster collaborations between schools and local organizations to create mentorship opportunities and educational workshops.

Every resident deserves to feel safe in their neighborhood. I am committed to working collaboratively with community members, local law enforcement, and city leaders to implement public safety strategies that are proactive, inclusive, and community driven. This includes: 

• Infrastructure Upgrades: Investing in better street lighting and safer road designs to enhance neighborhood safety.​
   
• Mental Health Resources: Implementing and supporting mental health services and crisis intervention programs to address community needs proactively.​
   
• Community Policing Initiatives: Promoting programs that build trust and accountability between law enforcement and residents.​
   
• Youth Engagement Programs: Expanding initiatives that provide positive outlets and support for young people, reducing the likelihood of involvement in criminal activities. 

Every resident deserves access to safe, affordable housing. I believe in housing policies that prevent displacement and support diverse communities, such as:

• Incentivize Affordable Housing Development: Work with developers to include affordable units in new construction.
   
• Protect Renters from Displacement: Support rent stabilization and legal aid for tenants facing eviction.
   
• Rehabilitate Existing Housing: Invest in programs that help low- and moderate-income homeowners repair and maintain their homes.

A robust democracy thrives on fair and inclusive electoral processes. Implementing Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) can strengthen our local elections by ensuring that elected officials more accurately represent the preferences of the electorate. As your next council member for Ward 5, I will:

• Advocate for RCV Implementation: Collaborate with local officials to explore the adoption of RCV in municipal elections, promoting majority support for elected candidates.​
   
• ​Educate the Electorate: Launch informational campaigns to inform residents about the benefits and mechanics of RCV, ensuring a smooth transition and informed voter participation.​
   
• Work to Pilot RCV in Local Elections: Propose pilot programs to test RCV in select local elections, gathering data and feedback to assess its effectiveness and public reception.​
   
• Promote Inclusive Representation: Support electoral reforms like RCV that can lead to more diverse and representative leadership, reflecting the varied voices within our community.

Hyattsville should be a place where every resident feels safe, seen, and celebrated—regardless of who they are or who they love. As your City Councilmember and a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I will be a strong and visible advocate for inclusion, dignity, and equality. If elected I will:

• Support inclusive city programming that celebrates LGBTQ+ history, culture, and community through events, public art, and civic engagement opportunities.
   
• Ensure transgender and nonbinary residents are protected and affirmed by advocating for inclusive language, facilities, and nondiscrimination policies in all city operations.
   
• Promote mental health resources by partnering with local organizations to provide culturally competent support specifically geared toward LGBTQ+ individuals.
   
• Stand against hate and discrimination by strengthening local responses to bias incidents and supporting community education efforts on inclusion and acceptance.
   

When our LGBTQ+ neighbors are supported, our whole community becomes stronger, more vibrant, and more connected.

Public safety and sustainability go hand in hand. I believe in smart, sustainable development that respects our environment while fostering economic growth. By expanding green spaces, improving infrastructure, and supporting small businesses, we can strengthen our city’s resilience and create vibrant, walkable neighborhoods for everyone. If elected, I will work to:

• Expand Green Spaces: Develop and maintain parks and community gardens to provide recreational areas and promote environmental sustainability.​
   
• Support Small Businesses: Offer resources and incentives to local entrepreneurs to stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities.​
   
• Advocate for Improvements to Infrastructure: Upgrade sidewalks, bike lanes, and public transportation options to create more walkable and accessible neighborhoods. 

Leadership means listening, learning, and taking action. I’m dedicated to being a responsive and accessible representative for Ward 5. That means:

• Regular Town Halls and Forums: Establish consistent communication channels between residents and city officials to discuss concerns and collaborate on solutions.​
   
• Transparent Communication: Utilize various platforms, including on social media, to keep Ward 5 residents informed about city initiatives,  which will help ensure transparency and accountability.​