Candidate profile: Rebekah Stewart

Profession: Chief Operating Officer, Board-Certified Music Therapist

Residence: Cedar Place

Campaign Website: Rebekahforlakewood.com

Why are you seeking this office?

I am running because Lakewood needs fresh voices as we move forward together and make decisions that will affect the future of our city and the next generations. I want to ensure that people have the opportunity to create a good life in Lakewood. We should be at the forefront of innovation when it comes to sustainability, protecting green space, improving affordability, creating safe communities, and supporting small and local businesses.

What makes you the best person for the job?

As COO of a healthcare non-profit, I work with people and provide compassionate leadership, which is exactly what being in public service is about. I’ve spent my career working with and advocating for individuals with disabilities, and I am invested in our community as an active member of my Sustainable Neighborhood, two of our local small business associations, and am proud to have earned the support of our local first responders.

What are your top three priorities if elected?

1. Invest in sustainability and protect/expand our parks and open spaces
2. Create more opportunities for people to earn a good life by increasing fair access to housing that’s affordable
3. Work together towards a safer Lakewood by investing in traffic safety and supporting our mental health co-responder programs

Has city hall done an appropriate job in implementing the citizen-approved growth ordinance?

As city hall has attempted to implement the growth ordinance, it is clear that there are areas requiring more clarity and that is why City Council has a review of the ordinance on their agenda. It’s important to continue to problem solve in good faith with our community as we move forward.

What is one part of the city that you feel could definitely use more council attention, and why?

Investing in our sustainability and a future of clean air and water. We have a responsibility to the next generations to do our part to lower emissions, and increase investment in clean infrastructure throughout the city.