A campaign centered on public safety

I want the people of District 1 to feel heard and valued. The first responsibility of any public servant is to amplify the voices of their constituents. With over a decade of experience in community-based non-profit work, I have seen the transformative power of community-led efforts. I plan on tapping into that experience to be a present and engaged leader.

I’ve lived in Iowa my whole life and have proudly called Cedar Rapids home since 2015. I’m a mum to two children and many adopted animals. I’ve earned a Bachelor’s in Animal Ecology and a Master’s in Philanthropy and Non-Profit Development – I believe this provides me with a unique set of skills to offer the City of Cedar Rapids.

My campaign is guided by three pillars:

IMPROVING HEALTH AND HOUSING STABILITY

I believe we can do this by increasing access to child care, health care, and grocery stores. City staff has already done some work to make Cedar Rapids a “15-minute city” (where things like grocery stores, health care, education, and entertainment options are within a 15-minute walk or bike ride) but I believe this work needs to be a top priority.

We also need to prioritize affordable housing throughout the city, while increasing resources for those experiencing homelessness. By working together with non-profits and other area governments, I agree with our homeless systems manager that we can make homelessness a “rare, brief and non-recurring” experience in our city.

BEST PRACTICE ANIMAL WELFARE POLICIES

Chapter 23 of our municipal code governs the treatment of animals – whether they are pets in your home, strays on the street, or in our animal shelters. I will advocate for the evolution of these ordinances to include more solutions-focused policies and community-based programs (pet pantries, low-cost veterinary services, temporary foster care), along with dedicating more resources to addressing inefficiencies at our city-run animal shelter.

SAFE AND SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY

Public safety is at the center of my policy, and I believe public safety goes far beyond the police and fire departments. It is achievable through affordable housing, access to medical care and food, flood protection, investing in public education and accessible infrastructure, and prioritizing sustainability.

Hopefully, the fact that I am an authentic, empathetic, and persistent woman is clear. I would represent District 1 with pride, focusing on the overall health and strength of our community."

Sam Wilson is a candidate for Cedar Rapids City Council District 1.