Education: As the stepfather of a 17-year-old and husband of an educator, David wants an educational environment that is safe and fosters learning. All students must have equal access to a top caliber education, regardless of where they live. A quality education will make our students competitive nationally and lay the ground work for a sound academic future. Our teachers must be well paid in order to retain them in our schools. Above all students and teachers must be treated with respect. David endorses the Independent Commission on Public Education (iCOPE) which calls for an independent committee (made up of parents, community members, students, teachers, principals, policy-makers, elected officials, education scholars and business leaders) to shape a new common vision for our schools based on human rights.

Development: David believes in responsible development. He will continue to work to ensure that community boards, community based organizations and residents have a voice that is both heard and heeded with respect to the responsible development of new housing, waterfront and commercial projects. David will demand that all new development include housing units that are truly affordable, based on the actual local median income, for seniors, low- and middle-income families.

Jobs: As a union organizer, and son of restaurant worker, David is committed to saving and creating good jobs that pay a living wage while also protecting the safety and health of workers. He’s also committed to assisting small businesses and “mom and pop shops” — the backbone of the local and national economy — with the services and support they need to stay in, and grow their business.

Family Friendly Neighborhoods: Families deserve clean streets, clean air and green spaces. David will work to secure additional sanitation services and parking in commercial areas. As an activist, he will continue fighting against the proliferation of hazardous waste plants, power plants and sex shops. As a resident of the community, safety, green spaces and beautification projects will be a priority. David will also address the health issues plaguing our community such asthma, diabetes, AIDS, and obesity.

Services/Resources: David will be an active voice in the City Council addressing the service needs of our neighbors, from infancy to the golden years. He will work to help parents obtain safe and affordable childcare, as well as comprehensive after school programs for their children. David will advocate for Senior Centers so that they will be able to provide quality care, recreational opportunities and proper nutrition for our older residents.