Childcare
Supporting the Ecosystem of Childcare in Bellevue
Childcare
The stark reality for many Bellevue families is a childcare system struggling to keep pace with their needs. The scarcity of accessible and affordable options forces working parents, particularly single parents, into an impossible dilemma: sacrificing their livelihoods to care for their children, or struggling to find reliable care that doesn't break the bank. This isn't just a personal struggle; it's a community challenge that impacts our workforce and the well-being of our youngest residents.
As a city, we have a responsibility to foster a more supportive and robust childcare ecosystem. One promising avenue lies in championing the growth of qualified at-home daycare centers, embedding safe and nurturing options within the familiar surroundings of our neighborhoods. By actively supporting individuals who wish to become childcare entrepreneurs – offering them training, resources, and clear pathways to success – we can organically expand our capacity. Much like the urgent need to address our housing crisis, we must recognize the critical shortage of childcare spaces in Bellevue and act decisively to increase supply. Supporting these smaller, community-based daycare options not only adds crucial capacity but also offers the flexibility and personalized care that can better serve the diverse needs of all Bellevue families, creating a stronger foundation for our community's future.
More daycare options in Bellevue will provide us with greater peace of mind, increased economic stability for families, and a stronger, more supportive community for raising children.
My Highest Priorities
Housing & Urban Planning
Housing is a basic need, yet Bellevue’s rising costs have made it increasingly out of reach for many. Limited supply and high demand have priced out too many in our community. As your City Council candidate, I’m committed to expanding housing options across all income levels—so more people can afford to live and thrive in the city they love.
Childcare
Bellevue must strengthen its childcare system to better support families. Too many parents—especially single parents—face the impossible choice between work and affordable, reliable care. This growing gap isn’t just a personal burden; it’s a community issue that affects our workforce and the well-being of our children.
Environmental Stewardship
Extreme weather, like last November’s bomb cyclone, highlights the urgent need for strong environmental action. We must both prepare our community for future climate challenges with resilient infrastructure and emergency planning, and protect our environment long-term—ensuring clean air, safe water, and a healthy future for all.
Economic Development
My vision for Bellevue’s economic growth centers on innovation, sustainability, and equity—especially by supporting our local small businesses. These businesses power job creation, fuel innovation, and shape our city’s unique character. On City Council, I’ll champion policies that help them thrive and drive a vibrant, resilient economy for all.
Public Safety
Bellevue’s future depends on a strong commitment to public safety for all. That means addressing root causes of crime, supporting law enforcement, and building strong community partnerships. I support expanding co-responder teams - pairing officers with mental health professionals - to ensure thoughtful, effective responses to crises and create a safer, more compassionate city.