Matthew Solomon Bio — Run on Climate

Matthew Solomon

Candidate for City Council, Emeryville, CA

Matthew is a climate change analyst and researcher, with a focus on tracking the amount of money spent on climate change and researching ways to use available funds as effectively as possible. He is running for Emeryville City Council to continue this work at the local level and address climate change while making the community safer and more vibrant. Matthew has served on the City of Emeryville's Housing Committee and Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee, where he has contributed to the development of the city's Active Transportation Plan and Housing Element, refined affordable housing programs, and advised on a variety of bike safety projects. He grew up in New York City and studied Public Policy and Economics at the University of Chicago, and has lived in Emeryville for five years.

Donate to Matthew

https://www.solomonforemeryville.com

Matthew’s Vision

Affordable, abundant, and low-carbon housing

The Bay Area has a severe housing crisis which has resulted in extreme rent burdens, homelessness, and families moving two hours from their jobs to find an affordable place to live. I will continue Emeryville's leadership on housing policy by allowing more and a greater variety of dense housing options to create both naturally occurring and deed-restricted affordable housing. I will also encourage sustainability in existing units by helping residents install climate-friendly building improvements like bike storage, electric vehicle chargers, and incentivizing the use of innovative low-carbon building methods.

Safe and joyful sustainable transportation

Better pedestrian, bike, and public transportation infrastructure decreases pollution, increases public safety, and creates more joyful and livable spaces while helping to address climate change by moving . Emeryville has become regionally and nationally known for its bike infrastructure, outstanding Active Transportation Plan, and recent Sustainable Streetscapes program. I will use my experience from the Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee to implement existing plans for 16 miles of bikeways, dedicated bus lanes, and infrastructure for improved pedestrian safety and accessibility. I will also partner with public transit providers to preserve and improve service throughout the city, so that residents can safely and efficiently move through the city and region in a climate-friendly manner.

“The solution to climate change for our cities is to create more sustainable, accessible, and people-centered spaces, where residents of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds can safely and affordably live - especially low-income and historically disadvantaged communities. I am excited to lead Emeryville towards this sustainable and vibrant future.”

-Matthew Solomon