I am running for Three Rivers Park Board Commissioner because I believe our parks are about more than trails, buildings, and open spaces—they are about people.
Parks strengthen communities, bring neighbors together, improve quality of life, and create places where everyone should feel welcome, safe, and connected. They are where families gather, children learn, neighbors build relationships, and communities come together. Simply put: what are our parks without our community?
Putting Community First
My commitment to community was reinforced on February 19, 2026. One month after the tragic murders of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, the Three Rivers Park Board voted on a policy that would have clarified that Three Rivers Park Police do not enforce federal immigration laws, do not detain people solely at the request of federal immigration authorities, and would have prohibited the use of park facilities for immigration enforcement staging activities.
The motion failed by a vote of 4-1 and Marge Beard was one of the commissioners who voted to do nothing.
Regardless of where people stand on immigration policy, I believe the Board missed an opportunity to demonstrate leadership, build trust, and affirm that our parks are places where all members of our community belong.
When people in our communities are hurting or fearful, our parks should help bring people together—not stand apart from them. As commissioner, I will work to ensure that Three Rivers remains responsive to the people it serves and lives up to the values outlined in its 2040 Vision Plan.
My Priorities
Build a Sustainable Park System
Support practical renewable energy projects, including solar power and battery storage where they make environmental and financial sense.
Reduce long-term operating costs while increasing resilience and energy independence.
Be responsible stewards of both taxpayer resources and the environment.
Protect and Restore Natural Resources
Expand pollinator habitat throughout the park district.
Partner with cities across District 1 to create connected pollinator pathways.
Strengthen biodiversity, support wildlife, and improve the natural spaces residents enjoy every day.
Promote Environmental Education and Community Engagement
Establish seed libraries at park centers featuring native plants.
Provide residents with opportunities to participate in conservation efforts.
Encourage lifelong learning and stronger community connections.
Ensure Accessibility for Everyone
Continue investing in accessible trails, facilities, and programming.
Remove barriers that prevent residents from fully enjoying our parks.
Ensure people of all ages and abilities can participate in everything Three Rivers has to offer.
Expand Regional Trail Connections
Support continued development of regional bike trails throughout the western suburbs.
Improve connections between communities, parks, and destinations.
Promote healthy living, recreation, and environmentally sustainable transportation.
Lead by the Three Rivers 2040 Vision
As commissioner, I will govern according to the core principles established in the Three Rivers 2040 Vision Plan:
You Belong Here
Ensure our parks are welcoming, accessible, and inclusive for everyone.
Parks Matter
Recognize that parks are essential to healthy, vibrant, and connected communities.
Lead by Example
Embrace innovation, environmental stewardship, and responsible management to meet today's needs while protecting opportunities for future generations.
Why I'm the Best Choice for District 1
I offer a vision that combines community engagement, environmental stewardship, fiscal responsibility, accessibility, and public trust.
I believe parks should not only protect natural resources but also strengthen the communities they serve. My priorities are practical, forward-looking, and grounded in the belief that every resident deserves a voice in shaping the future of our park system.
Together, we can ensure that Three Rivers remains a national leader in parks, trails, conservation, and community-building—and a place where everyone truly belongs.