At a League of Women Voters forum, Mount Vernon City Council candidates Demi Damon and Stephanie Lejuez said affordable housing, public safety and fiscal responsibility should guide council decisions as the city plans for future growth.

Both candidates emphasized housing availability for wage earners and seniors, and both urged the city to pursue targeted, sustainable development rather than unchecked expansion.

Stephanie Lejuez said her top budget priority is addressing the housing shortage and attracting “small developers who really have a stake in Mount Vernon.” She argued against sprawl and for downtown, walkable development served by transit: “We don't need more sprawl. We need people who are willing to invest their businesses and their time in Mount Vernon.” Lejuez also told the forum she discussed grant ideas with police and fire leadership and recommended a city grant writer to coordinate funding opportunities.

Demi Damon identified her three priorities as “affordable housing, public safety, and financial responsibilities,” and said she has been studying the city budget and attending council meetings to prepare. Damon described interest in a range of housing types — accessory dwelling units, cottage‑style and “missing middle” housing — and raised concerns about a projected budget shortfall, saying she “does see the $6,000,000 deficit coming.”

Both candidates said public safety resources and infrastructure must be sized to meet growth. Lejuez referenced conversations with Police Chief Dan Christman and Fire Chief Brian Harris about grant opportunities; she said well‑maintained sidewalks, trained emergency responders and reliable transit are especially important for residents with disabilities and older adults.

On growth strategy, Lejuez recommended prioritizing quality and sustainability so newcomers remain in the community, noting that many moved to the area during the COVID‑era and have since strained local housing supply. Damon said the city should follow its comprehensive plan and coordinate with other jurisdictions and grant sources to bring in businesses that will increase tax base and local jobs.

The forum concluded with closing statements and reminders about the primary ballot; no council decisions or votes occurred during the event.