Issues
Keeping Communities Safe from Crime
As a former prosecutor, Brienne knows how to use the legal system to effectively obtain justice. But she also knows that we need a more holistic, long-term approach to address the root causes of crime and prevent gun violence, centered on a community-oriented approach. It is not sufficient to be “Tough on Crime”, we need to get “Smart on Crime”. She believes we need to to stop crimes before they happen, let alone before they arrive in a courtroom.
As Councillor, Brienne will take action to:
Prioritize mental health by continuing to dispatch mental health professionals to deal with mental health crisis calls and expanding access to treatment
Incentivize Community Oriented Policing to strengthen trust between law enforcement and community members
Partner with trusted community leaders to implement Community Violence Intervention programs to disrupt cycles of violence
Address the housing crisis by passing zoning reform, piloting a rent-to-own program, cracking down on negligent landlords, and partnering with state government to secure state and federal dollars for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund
Support universal pre-K to bring down costs for working parents and ensure future success for our children as a long-term method statistically proven to reduce crime
Jumpstart summer youth employment programs to teach our kids the value of a good job and set them on the right path
Modernizing our Infrastructure
Brienne believes that Indianapolis is a world-class city because of our people, neighborhoods, and spirit. Our infrastructure needs to reflect that fact rather than crumble in neglect. Instead of lagging behind, our infrastructure can be a hallmark of excellence: a modern infrastructure that allows quick and safe transit (whether by foot, car, or bike), while also protecting our environment.
As Councillor, Brienne will take action to:
Rebuild our transportation infrastructure by repaving roads, fixing potholes, and repairing bridges
Expand our Complete Streets ordinance to make sure our kids are safe when crossing the street
Build up more green infrastructure such as protected bike lanes, bike parking spaces, electric vehicle charging stations, and switching 100% of City owned lights to LED with the goal of reducing carbon emissions by 80% by 2045
Growing Good-Paying Jobs
From the crushing pandemic to soaring inflation, the economy has oscillated wildly these past few years, and working people have felt the brunt of the impact. While the city council cannot change the direction of the national economy, it can make our local economy better equipped to weather storms by making it stronger and more equitable. The key to equitable growth is creating job opportunities, growing wages, and providing opportunities for lower-income families to generate wealth.
As Councillor, Brienne will take action to:
Invest in Small Businesses with a focus on empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs including Women Small Business Owners, Minority Small Business Owners, and Veteran Small Business Owners.
Support union workers by protecting the right to organize and supporting fair labor practices in local contracts