I really enjoyed having an open, honest conversation about the impacts of city development.

If we aren't thinking about how certain development directly affects the people currently living downtown, then simply erecting some new luxury housing complexes and bringing in large corporations will not be enough to create a sustainable economy. The apparent success of up-and-coming areas like Hamilton Street does not filter out to those folks living on Walnut Street or Linden Street in any positive way. Instead, we're seeing rent costs increase and mom-and-pop shops being pushed out.

And a city can't truly be thriving with large corporations on one block and homeless people sleeping in tents down the street.

But the goal also isn't to drive out businesses either. We need these companies to come in, provide jobs, and grow our economy. Otherwise, we won't have the revenues to fund important city services for residents. At the same time, these residents are the ones who will keep these businesses thriving. Businesses and residents rely on each other — but in order to benefit everyone, the system must work for everyone.

That's why it's so critical that while we continue to develop economically, we are strongly considering the implications on the working-class folks already residing there.

We need to implement strategic, structural policies that will form a stronger bond between businesses and our greater community so that Allentown's economic prosperity will stretch out to all who call this city home.

I'm running for mayor so that I can fight for tangible action and develop inclusive plans that will promote economic health, as well as the health and wellbeing of our citizens.

Will you make a donation today to help me leverage our city's economic development in a way that uplifts the residents of Allentown? Please pitch in now >>

Thanks for helping me make a difference,
Ce-Ce

We need progressive action to move Allentown forward and build a more inclusive, equitable future. Pitch in now to help Ce-Ce revamp our city — block by block!