Economic Security
Arlington's economy draws its strength from a diverse mix of businesses big and small, and it’s at its best when its workforce is well-paid and well-treated. Robust competition across a diverse range of industries keeps our economy dynamic and creates opportunities for entrepreneurs and workers to succeed. But even strong economies can suffer shocks. As a veteran, I am fully aware of the economic damage suffered when the Defense Department transferred offices and employees out of Crystal City in 2005. Our local economy suffered again during the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced businesses to close and made it harder for many workers to find and keep jobs. Even when the economy is strong and growing, there will still be people in need. Our residents are secure only when they have stable housing and incomes.
When everyone’s basic needs are met, we prosper together. I will work to make Arlington a place where no one gets left behind and everyone has a fair chance to thrive by:
Promoting innovation - With the rise of virtual work, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning, the workforce of the future is evolving in ways that Arlington must prepare for today. Arlington’s well educated workforce coupled with its high concentration of technology firms and research-focused higher education institutions make it an ideal county to foster innovation. Identifying incentives to encourage startups, create incubators, and reduce office vacancy rates is a must for attracting companies and stabilizing our tax revenue. Maintaining an impressive K-12 education system and providing ample affordable, high quality housing will also be key for preparing Arlington for a sound economic future.
Assisting businesses - Inflation and rising rents have put tremendous pressure on our local businesses. We need to give local businesses - including intentional support for small, minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses - the tools they need to fairly compete and succeed, including by engaging with developers and removing unnecessary regulatory hurdles.
Empowering workers - The past few years have seen an inspiring surge in the power of organized labor. Arlington County Board needs to collaborate with public employee unions to provide competitive pay and benefits, and we must support fair labor practices. We also must pass measures to increase employer accountability and end wage theft.
Providing crisis support - When residents lose their jobs or face eviction, they often do not know where to turn and how to find help. We need to develop a program to identify these residents, reach out to them, and connect them with county resources and other means of assistance. I also support consolidating and streamlining access to Arlington’s many crisis support services so individuals who need them can find them seamlessly.