MANAGING GROWTH

As a Planning Commissioner for the past six years, I understand the critical role zoning plays. I’m committed to policies and smart growth strategies that reduce traffic and ease pressure on our infrastructure, beaches, and schools. These efforts are essential to our safety, sense of community, access to nature, and the charm of small-town living.

I’m prioritizing a comprehensive update to the master plan and zoning code to:

• reduce residential density where needed

• promote mixed-use development in walkable areas

• implement inclusive strategies that protect existing neighborhoods managing gentrification

• safeguard environmental resources like tree canopy, wetlands and water quality

• improve quality of life.

LOCALS + TOURISM

People come to Gulf Shores for the unique charm of a small-town beach experience, something they can’t find at home. By prioritizing the preservation and enhancement of our small town values and character, we can protect the quality of life for our residents and serve a memorable experience for visitors. It’s the right thing to do and our tourism depends on it. It’s a win win!

I’m prioritizing the protection and enhancement of our core walking districts by

• supporting small business retention and recruitment

• “local first” campaigns to boost resident and visitor spending at independent businesses.

• improving signage, wayfinding and streetscapes including landscaping, lighting, benches and

• preserving and highlighting Historic Buildings and Landmarks

• incorporating art into our built environment

• Invest in events and experiences including hosting farmers markets, art walks, parades, and LOCAL festivals that celebrate community and draw visitors.

SMALL BUSINESS

I stand firmly with small businesses as the cornerstone of Gulf Shores. Supporting small businesses isn’t just good economics — it’s about protecting the soul of Gulf Shores. They are essential to our unique character, local economy, and employment opportunities, helping keep money circulating within our community.

As a small business owner, I advocate for policies that foster profitable growth and long-term business success. I am prioritizing

• Smart zoning policies and transparent processes essential for small business success

• incentivizes for local entrepreneurs to locate, renovate and occupy older structures keeping the character and history of Gulf Shores alive

• “Buy Gulf Shores” Campaign promoting resident and visitor spending at local shops through signage, events, and digital marketing.

• Build a Collaborative Local Business Environment and give local entrepreneurs a seat at the table to influence policy, planning, and city investments.

WALKABILITY + BIKEABILITY (including PARKING)

Pedestrian friendly towns are strong towns that are economically productive, safer and healthier. Using an incremental approach to improving transportation including parking allows us to create safer streets and intersections and a mapped system of pathways that supports ecotourism, safe routes to schools and vibrant walking business districts.

Why It Matters to Gulf Shores? Pedestrian friendly towns:

• Have a Stronger Local Economy
  Walkable, attractive streets drive foot traffic to small businesses and create vibrant, livable destinations for residents and visitors alike.

• Safer Streets for Everyone
  Slower, better-designed streets protect pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers — especially children and seniors.

• Walkable environments reduce traffic

• Healthier and More Connected Communities
  Walkable environments encourage physical activity and strengthen neighborhood connections.

• Support our Local Identity and Ecotourism
  A walkable Gulf Shores aligns with our coastal charm and natural beauty — giving tourists a reason to explore, shop, and stay longer.

My Step-by-Step Plan to Make Gulf Shores More Walkable

1. Prioritize Safe Streets & Intersections

• Identify dangerous intersections for crosswalks, signage, lighting, and traffic-calming upgrades.

• Pilot quick, low-cost improvements (e.g., paint, bump-outs, planters, flexible bollards).

• Lower speed limits in pedestrian-heavy areas.

2. Build a Connected Walking & Biking Network

• Finalize the town-wide walking and biking map now in development.

• Fill sidewalk gaps near schools, parks, transit stops, and shopping areas—using a block-by-block approach.

• Begin work on a Greenway to link North, South, East and West Gulf Shores to trails, parks, and waterfronts, creating an ecotourism-friendly network.

3. Boost Business, Tourism & Livability in Key Areas

• Designate Waterway Village North and South, Beach and Pelican Place as Pedestrian Entertainment Districts.

• Upgrade sidewalks, lighting, benches, shade, and access to parking in these commercial hubs.

• Add wayfinding signage to guide visitors to shops, trails, and public spaces.

4. Invest in Kids and Schools

• Expand our safe paths to school maps, walking school bus and bike to school programs.

5. Use an Incremental Approach
Start with low-cost improvements and test ideas before scaling up — a “try it before you build it” model.

6. Invest in parking management strategies and alternate transportation.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Environment plays a huge part in a person’s ability to be healthy and happy. From creating good habits at a young age to increasing quality and longevity of our years, I want to work for you to make the healthy choice the easy choice in our community and our schools by improving access to healthier food options and moving naturally.

Improve Access to Healthy Food by

• Creating local Farmers Markets to give access to fresh local products

• Promote healthy food in City Facilities in vending machines, concession stands, and city-run events alongside traditional choices.

• Expand network of community gardens and school gardens, and offer educational programs on nutrition and cooking.

2. Make It Easier to Move Naturally Every Day

• Build more safe, walkable places and invest in parks and 0utdoor spaces

3. Champion Healthy Schools ✅

Our GSCS Health and Wellness Committee has made big changes to support our student and staff health and we’re not done yet!

• Collaborate with school leaders to improve access to healthy breakfast and lunch options, including locally sourced ingredients.

• Invest in sidewalk safety, crosswalks, and bike infrastructure to encourage active commuting and independent mobility.

• Encourage physical activity breaks, outdoor learning, and “movement-friendly” school designs.