For 51 years, I have been privileged to call Millwood my home. I got to raise my son under the watchful eyes of a multigenerational village of family, friends, and trusted neighbors. Our streets are a safe place for the neighborhood children to play, grow, and fall in love with the natural beauty that surrounds us
Yet for all the emotional ties I have to this city, there are just as many strategic reasons I believe Millwood is poised to be a city prepared for the future…
* Water security– The Spokane River serves as one of our city’s borders. From the highest vantage point, this represents ultimate water security. Of course, there are rules and processes that govern the use of water, and developing a long-term plan for our water management will be a top priority if elected mayor.
* A walkable city- Everywhere in Millwood is a walkable distance away. Our schools, churches, stores, and the homes of loved ones are all within a short 15-minute walk. Accessible and self-contained community equals resilience for every Millwood citizen.
* Downtown business community & farmer’s market- Millwood has a robust business community and a weekly farmer’s market, all mere blocks away from my front porch. That is rare after the over half-century trend of building suburban developments in locations that create a clear fragmentation between residents and commerce.
* Century old trees and perennial gardens- We love to garden in Millwood! Our tree lined streets aren’t just walkable, they are simply beautiful to walk. All those neighborhood gardens and suburban livestock equal food security. The fact that a good portion of Millwood’s gardens and trees have well established root systems is even better in regards to drought tolerance. Whether it is our community garden, our tree canopy, or our water I will continue to advance policies that protect and invested in the health of our natural resources.
* Self governed- As its own incorporated town/city for almost a century, governance decisions are made by neighbors, people who are dedicated to living with the consequences of their choices. Due to the longevity of our self-governance, there are also numerous opportunities for citizens to participate and be heard. If elected mayor, I commit to continuing procedural reforms that increase our capacity for participatory governance, with transparent and proactive communication from your city officials.
Shawna Beese Mayor-elect Millwood 