Candidate for
Council Member; City of Los Angeles; District 5

I want a city where every child can have the opportunities I have had to achieve their dreams. To me, that means safe streets, good schools, a vibrant economy and a healthy environment. As a member of the City Council, I will listen to the concerns of my constituents and be an advocate for my community. I have a strong record as an activist making change in my community.

If elected I intend to focus on building our transportation infrastructure by promoting light rail; ensuring better governance by adopting our Controller's audits on how departments can better manage tax dollars; reducing crime and gang violence by increasing the number of officers that serve our communities; keeping our schools safe for our children and partnering with the Board of Education to improve education. My successful professional work experience and community activism for safer and stronger schools and neighborhoods shows I have the leadership ability and know how to accomplish this agenda. If elected I intend to manage with transparency and inclusiveness and be responsive to my constituents.

Strong public schools are so important to the success of everyone in the City of Los Angles, whether or not your children attend public school. Strong public schools bring parents and children together and strengthen neighborhoods. Strong public schools provide employers with an educated workforce in today's global economy. Most importantly, strong public schools give every child a chance to achieve the American Dream. I believe the city should partner with LAUSD and the Board of Education to address improving education for all children in Los Angeles. In addition to the City continuing to fund afterschool programs, we can propose more joint use of our school facilities to allow schools to be anchors for communities. As a leader for Los Angeles it is our responsibility to work to ensure we are educating our youth. Parents are frustrated with their educational choices and would welcome all elected leaders to work on improving our educational system. I welcome a partnership between the Mayor, the City Council and the Board of Education. It takes everyone at the table with a focus on education to make drastic improvements.

Everyday people are asking me why I want to run for city council. Many believe serving as a council member is a thankless job plagued with problems that can never really be resolved, but this is not how I view the opportunity. I want to be a strong advocate for our community. I believe safety is of the utmost importance for the city. I view the job of councilperson as a chance to initiate policy that will enhance the lives of individuals and their families. I see applying my business acumen to foster a healthy commerce climate so that a small or large company can flourish and invest in our city. I see working with school facilities, in cooperation with students and parents. I see bringing people together. The most valuable skill I have learned in my career is the ability to listen. Being responsive and sensitive to how passionate people feel toward their communities is a trait necessary to succeed in representing the people of the 5th district. I have always taken the time to hear what people want and need. I intend to be the most responsive public servant possible so that all voices are heard. The 5th district deserves a leader who is balanced and battle tested.