PLATFORM

Our county is strongest when we all have access to affordable and safe housing; quality education, transportation and health care; thriving businesses; safer communities; and clean air and water. I will continue to be an advocate for all of District 8, including the areas that have been most left behind. Fostering a collaborative, bi-partisan approach across County Council is imperative. I am deeply committed to representing working families. I consistently support good-paying jobs, workplace safety and collective bargaining rights. We need to ensure a prosperous community, one that promotes a healthy, safe and thriving community for all.

During her first term on Allegheny County Council, Michelle worked collaboratively with local and state elected leaders to ensure that Monroeville Convention Center stayed open and continued to be a vital asset to the region, one that contributes significantly to our economy; negotiated with the County Administration to re-open Shuman (now Highland Detention at Shuman) and settle the lawsuit, achieving a better contract outcome); and negotiated a balanced budget during the County's most contentious budget process, ensuring vital services to community such as Meals on Wheels and afterschool programs remained intact and no county layoffs were necessary, including at the Sheriff's office, District Attorney's office and Kane Regional Nursing Centers.

Michelle introduced legislation that now requires Allegheny County to annually publish a list of County-owned real properties deemed eligible for sale that would render the property taxable - revenue generation, job creation, transparency. In addition, she has co-sponsored legislation that:

1) Streamlines Assessment and Re-assessment Practices

2) Provides a Tax Credit for Volunteer Emergency Response Personnel

3) Updates County Campaign Regulations

4) Prohibits Fracking in County Parks

5) Requires a countywide Climate Action Plan and updated Article XXI Air Pollution Control regulations

In addition, Michelle has been working on the following priorities:

ensuring that the County's 20 departments are meeting the needs of County employees and residents
addressing blight and economic development needs across the District
participating in community job creation/workforce development discussions
convening volunteer firefighters to assist with long-term planning for the future
resolving issues with use of County property
engaging with municipalities to identify next steps needed to address aftermath of storm damage, including infrastructure needs
working toward a resolution on the air quality permit fees
advocating for public safety needs identified in the District
collaborating with County program recipients regarding fiscal responsibility, budget needs and concerns, including mental health, behavioral health and aging services
coordinating repairs and services in senior living spaces