JENNA SMITH
For Marquette City Commission
PLATFORM

Representation
I believe it is important for women and young people to be well-represented on the Marquette City Commission. The issues and questions that my peers bring forward tend to be from a subset of the population that does not always have direct access to local officials.
Housing
As a City, I believe we need to focus on ways to increase affordable mid-range housing options. For example, new development of homes in the $150,000 range that median-income families can afford. I am continually exploring ways for more young families to have the opportunity to live in the City of Marquette. When I became Mayor in 2019, one of my first actions was the creation of the Ad-Hoc Housing Committee to review these issues and potential solutions.
Environment and Climate Change
It is important that we take care of the environment for future generations. A renewed look at climate change is needed as a City to make changes that will impact our region for many years to come.
Strategic Planning & Budget
I strongly believe in a robust Strategic Planning and Budgeting process to determine short and long-term goals for the City. This process helps to outline where money should be spent and to ensure our City is financially sound for years to come.
Talent Attraction & Retention
I believe this is an area that will be crucial for the future of Marquette. I currently provide insights about what my peers would like to see when it comes to recreation planning, capital improvements, and a strong downtown. These topics are very important for talent retention and attraction.
Some examples are advocating for a year-round dog park, improving public transportation especially in the downtown area, considering the addition of a toddler area when we replace existing parks, and overnight parking options downtown to support local businesses while discouraging buzzed driving.