Everyone deserves a safe, stable place to live. But in Kalamazoo, too many of our neighbors are struggling to find affordable housing—or any housing at all. That’s why Drew has been a vocal advocate for housing justice, from championing a low-barrier shelter (now under construction) to pushing for policies that protect renters and expand access to housing.

Drew believes in zoning reform to allow for more diverse housing options, tenant protections to keep families in their homes, and strategic public investment to support both non-profit developers and community land trusts. His approach centers those most at risk of displacement—seniors, the working class, and the unhoused—while recognizing that long-term affordability is key to a thriving, inclusive Kalamazoo.

As someone who’s worked on campaigns and community initiatives addressing housing, Drew understands the urgent need to move beyond studies and reports—and to start building a system that ensures housing is treated as a right, not a luxury.

Photo credit: @discoverkzoo

Safety isn’t just about policing—it’s about building a community where people are secure in their homes, on their streets, and in their daily lives. Drew is committed to a holistic approach to public safety that prioritizes mental health response, neighborhood infrastructure, and violence prevention alongside professional, accountable emergency services.

He supports investments in non-police crisis teams, improved street lighting and sidewalks, and community-based programs that address root causes of violence before they escalate. Drew also understands the need to rebuild trust between public institutions and the people they serve, especially in communities that have historically been over-policed and underserved.

With experience on budget and neighborhood development committees, Drew knows how public safety investments must be targeted, measurable, and transparent—and how to make sure they serve the people who need them most.

Photo credit: @kalamazoocity

Drew believes a healthy economy is one that works for everyone—not just a few. That means removing barriers for local entrepreneurs, attracting businesses that generate tax revenue without displacing residents, and ensuring economic development plans include underserved neighborhoods, not just the city’s core.

Drawing on his experience in workforce development and small business consulting, Drew supports policies that:

1. Cut red tape for neighborhood businesses and start-ups
2. Incentivize inclusive hiring practices and job training pipelines
3. Ensure city contracts and subsidies include equity benchmarks
4.Prioritize development projects that reflect community needs, not just market potential

He also believes in measuring economic success not only by GDP or investment volume, but by whether people can afford to live, work, and raise families in Kalamazoo without being pushed out.

Photo credit: @kalamazoocity