James' Issues

Expand foot and bike patrols in Uptown and residential neighborhoods to improve visibility, build trust, and deter crime.
Increase transparency around surveillance tools such as Flock cameras — ensuring the public knows how data is collected, used, and stored.
Support trained mental health crisis response teams to handle non-violent incidents more appropriately and reduce strain on law enforcement.
Improve traffic safety with upgraded signage, high-visibility crosswalks, and school zone enforcement.
Implement traffic calming measures like speed bumps, narrowed lanes, and traffic circles to protect pedestrians and reduce speeding in neighborhoods increasingly affected by dense housing development.

Protect and expand Whittier’s urban tree canopy by planting three new trees for every one removed and enforcing stronger protections for mature trees.
Require open, usable public space in all new developments, not just allow developers to pay in-lieu fees.
Invest in sustainable infrastructure such as cool roofs, shaded bus stops, permeable sidewalks, and native landscaping to combat rising temperatures.
Preserve historic homes and community landmarks as essential to Whittier’s identity and character.

Promote the City’s “Clean Whittier” reporting app through public outreach so residents know how to easily report graffiti, dumping, and infrastructure issues — and receive timely updates.
Organize neighborhood cleanup days and civic pride campaigns to beautify public spaces and strengthen resident engagement.
Support local businesses and entrepreneurs by expanding access to small business grants, simplifying city permits, and creating pop-up opportunities in underused commercial areas.
Re-establish neighborhood councils and hold regular Town Halls to ensure residents have a direct voice in shaping policies before they’re decided.

End closed-door decisions and backroom deals. Major policy discussions should happen in public, not just behind the dais.
Publish summaries of upcoming city decisions in plain language so residents can participate early in the process.
Require authentic community outreach when major changes are proposed in a neighborhood — with multilingual notices, public meetings, and real dialogue before a vote.
Release an annual “You Spoke, We Acted” report so residents can see how their input shaped the city’s actions and priorities.
Stand firm against unconstitutional or inhumane federal actions — Whittier will not be a place where human rights are ignored.