I see firsthand both the opportunities and challenges our community faces. Frisco is an incredible place to live, work, and visit, but it can also be difficult for young couples to start a family, for businesses to attract and retain top employees, and for retirees to maintain their quality of life.

A mentor of mine once taught me that successful businesses invest in their people first. When you invest in employees, you create a stronger, more loyal workforce, which leads to better service, stronger businesses, and long-term success. I believe the same principle applies to Frisco.

We need to invest in our community members through housing, childcare, recreation, and opportunities to stay engaged locally. When we do that, we strengthen our workforce, support our businesses, and improve the visitor experience. That leads to a healthier local economy, increased tourism revenue, and more resources/tax revenue to reinvest back into Frisco.

Priority 1: Investing in our local community

Too many locals who are financially capable of buying a home still cannot do so in Frisco due to limited deed restricted inventory and high free-market prices. At the same time, those in deed-restricted housing often feel stuck by being unable to “size up” as families grow or “size down” as life changes.

We need a better balance between workforce housing and free-market housing. That means encouraging thoughtful development that includes deed restrictions while still allowing for private investment. We should also explore creative solutions like reclassification opportunities, pathways for mobility within deed-restricted units, and partnerships that expand attainable housing options.

Child care is another critical piece. If we want a stable workforce, we must support working families by making childcare more accessible. Streamlining the process to open new childcare centers and reducing barriers for providers should be a priority.

Finally, we must continue protecting our parks, open spaces, and natural environment. Access to the outdoors is a major reason people choose to live here. Preserving that quality of life is essential.

Priority 2: Supporting and protecting local businesses

Local businesses are the backbone of Frisco’s economy and identity. They create jobs, serve residents, and shape the character of our town. If they struggle, our entire community feels it.

We need to ensure that policies and projects consider the real-world impact on small businesses. That includes minimizing disruptions during construction, improving parking and accessibility, and maintaining a business-friendly regulatory environment.

We should also focus on workforce stability because businesses can’t operate without reliable employees. That ties directly back to housing and childcare but also includes exploring ways to support employee retention and reduce seasonal workforce gaps.

In addition, we need to strike the right balance with tourism. Tourism is essential to our economy, but it must be managed in a way that supports, not overwhelms, our local businesses and residents. Thoughtful short-term rental policies, infrastructure planning, and year-round economic strategies can help create consistency and sustainability for business owners.

Priority 3: Preserving and strengthening Frisco’s culture

Frisco’s identity as a true mountain town is what sets it apart. It’s a place where people know their neighbors, support local businesses, and take pride in the community.

As we grow, we need to be intentional about preserving that character. That means protecting our historic downtown, maintaining accessible public spaces, and ensuring development aligns with the scale and feel of our town.

We should continue investing in community events, recreation programs, and spaces that bring people together, whether that’s families, longtime residents, or newcomers. A strong sense of community doesn’t happen by accident; it requires ongoing effort and thoughtful decision-making.

Most importantly, we need to make sure Frisco remains a place where people can build a life, not just visit. That means supporting families, creating opportunities for the next generation, and maintaining the balance that makes this town special.

TJ Paulus is a candidate for Frisco Town Council. For all candidate columns, articles and Q&As, visit SummitDaily.com/election.