What policies would you pursue to reduce the carbon output of buildings and transportation in your jurisdiction?

I’ll be honest. I don’t know everything about reducing the carbon output of buildings and transportation, but I know we can’t afford to sit around and do nothing. Too often, leaders waste time and money on endless studies and consultants instead of taking real action. There are things we can do right now that help people and the environment at the same time.

For example, we should make sure landlords keep their rental units energy efficient. If they don’t insulate their properties or fix windows that leak air, we should fine them. This would save renters money on heating and cooling and reduce carbon output because less energy would be wasted. It is a simple solution that helps both tenants and the climate.

Policies that focus on helping workers also help the climate. Housing, transit, and inequality are connected to the climate crisis. Transit-focused zoning can make neighborhoods easier to walk and bike in, which helps reduce car use. Protected bike lanes can give people safer ways to travel without driving. Building toward a 15-minute city, where every neighborhood has grocery stores, clinics, schools, and other services, creates jobs, reduces traffic, and makes neighborhoods more vibrant.

We should also make transit more affordable and accessible. Let’s give people free bus passes or eliminate fares for trips within Bellevue. If you get on and off a bus inside the city, you should not have to pay. We can afford this, we just need to make it a priority.

Policies that make life better for working people also help solve the climate crisis. By focusing on people, we can reduce carbon output, improve our city, and create a better future for everyone.