In this episode of Care More Be Better, host Corinna Bellizzi dives deep into local politics and community activism with John Lewis, a city council candidate in Scotts Valley, California. John shares his vision for the future of Scotts Valley, touching on pressing local issues like rising housing costs, the need for a town center, and the importance of personal agency in shaping our communities. This conversation is packed with insights on the challenges and rewards of running for office and what it means to be a “YIMBY” (Yes In My Backyard) advocate. Key Topics Covered: [00:00:26] Introduction to Care More Be Better and guest John Lewis. [00:00:46] John’s background: Engineering expertise and community issues in Scotts Valley. [00:02:21] Community engagement and motivation to run for city council. [00:03:48] The need for a town center in Scotts Valley and why previous efforts stalled. [00:06:37] Environmental and infrastructural challenges: From airport to town center. [00:10:12] Essential traits and qualifications for running for local office. [00:13:00] How city council can directly impact community well-being. [00:18:55] Defining NIMBY vs. YIMBY and John’s endorsement from Santa Cruz YIMBY. [00:26:04] Why John isn’t accepting political donations. [00:28:42] The importance of local elections and civic engagement. Call to Action: If you’re a Scotts Valley resident, consider voting for John Lewis to support local development that fosters community and sustainability. For resources on how to get involved, visit our website at CircleB.co. Connect with John Lewis: website: https://www.johnlewissvcity.com/ linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-lewis-44784516/ facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JohnLewisSVCity 🌱 Join Our Community: When you subscribe to our newsletter, we’ll plant a tree in your honor in partnership with Forest Planet. Every action counts toward creating a greener, better world. JOIN OUR CIRCLE. BUILD A GREENER FUTURE: 🌴 Subscribe to our newsletter, and we'll plant a tree in your honor! https://circleb.co 🌲 Subscribe and rate us wherever you listen, and we'll plant another tree 🌳 Shop our cause-before-commerce store and support earth-first charities through our partnership with 1% For The Planet. Follow us on social media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/caremorebebetter TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@caremorebebetter and https://tiktok.com/@circleb.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CareMore.BeBetter/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CareMoreBeBetter LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/care-more-be-better