HSU plays a vital role in Arcata's economy and major decisions made by HSU affect all the citizens of Arcata. Over the past 12 years there have been two serious conflicts between HSU and the surroundings neighborhoods. One conflict involved the Behavior and Social Sciences building. The second controversy was over HSU's plan to buy property in the Bayview neighborhood for faculty housing. Neighbors of HSU want its administration to include them in decision-making and I will make sure their voices are heard before they have to organize in opposition to decisions made without them.
I am in a very unique position to work as a bridge between HSU and Arcata. I would like to make the relationship positive for all of us. I am in regular contact with President Rollin Richmond and other members of HSU, both as a colleague and as an advocate for students. I work for an affiliate of HSU, the Schatz Energy Research Center, and am a mentor for many student clubs and organizations, such as CCAT.
For the last six years, I have volunteered my time working on City of Arcata committees, including the Energy Committee and the Planning Commission. I have a friendly working relationship with many people in Arcata's city government and understand the issues firsthand.