top of page



 

I was born in North Dakota, lived in Japan as a young child, and grew up outside of Baltimore, MD. I graduated from Towson University in 2004 and earned a B.A in International Studies with a minor in Political Science. Shortly after graduating, I began working as a US security clearance investigator.

 

My wife Kristen and I moved to Carrboro in August 2010 for her job at RTI International. We chose Carrboro for its bike and walkability and reputation for inclusiveness and progressive viewpoints in North Carolina. It's one of the few places that provides the quality of life, affordability, and proximity to activities that we were looking for. We love the chance encounters with our friends around town that you don't experience often in a larger city.

 

I joined the Carrboro Transportation Advisory Board (TAB). Through my work with the TAB, I learned to negotiate with developers and build partnerships with community groups to meet local transportation goals.

 

I worked as a temporary employee for UNC shortly after moving to the area. After the birth of my son Marek in October 2011, we decided it would be better financially if I stayed home to take care of him when my wife went back to work. This is when I realized Carrboro needs to improve its cycling and walking facilities. I cannot count the times that a car sped past us as we attempted to cross the road at a crosswalk or a driver came dangerously close to us in the bicycle lane in their impatience to get to their destination.

 

While staying home with my son, I took evening courses and earned a Graduate Certificate in Urban and Economic Development from UNC-Greensboro in May 2013. My studies at UNCG gave me an understanding of local/regional economic development theory, urban planning, regional planning strategy, and how the political process works in correlation with land use policies to achieve community development goals. I am inspired by academics and politicians such as John Pucher and Enrique Peñalosa, who focus on making our cities more equitable for all people, from our streets to our public spaces.

 

Currently, I spend my time seeking ways to improve life in Carrboro as a candidate for Alderman and member of the TAB, being a stay at home Dad twice a week, and seeking employment opportunities in the planning, economic development, and active living fields.

 


 

 

Biography

bottom of page