On November 5^th, 2024 we will have a chance to use the full weight of the electoral process to determine who will represent us on the Richmond City Council for the next four years.

In an effort to help level the playing field, Radio Free Richmond has extended an offer to all seven candidates for the Council to post their own words to let you, the voters, know their positions on what they believe to be the important issues.

THIS IS FREE PUBLICITY.

The candidates have also been invited to post guest editorials on the issues of importance.

RFR will post a new candidate statement every couple of days.

RADIO FREE RICHMOND DOES NOT ENDORSE CANDIDATES—THEY OFFER A PLATFORM FOR COMMUNITY MEMBERS TO EXPRESS IDEAS ON ISSUES OF VALUE TO THE COMMUNITY

As a woman of color, a mother, and an immigrant from Colombia, my journey has shaped my commitment to our community. As I run for re-election, I remain deeply committed to the belief that local government can be a powerful force for good in our everyday lives. Public resources must be protected to uplift our community, especially those historically marginalized.

Back in Colombia, I was an architect who worked with vulnerable people. I collaborated with a small farming community in the mountains to build homes for 50 families who had lost their houses during the devastating 1999 floods. I also worked with the broader farming community to develop a sustainable watershed plan. We brought residents together to discuss their challenges and aspirations for the future, and we cooperated to make these projects successful.

I was comfortable and established in my home country, but when I arrived in the U.S. in 2007, I had to start over. I spoke no English when I arrived. When I got to the Bay Area, I attended the Adult School in Berkeley. I went every day, worked hard, took the necessary exams, and eventually applied to UC Berkeley where I earned my degree in environmental planning. I got a scholarship to travel to do research for my thesis.

After returning home and relocating to Richmond, I began advocating for the rights and needs of our Black and Brown communities. I co-founded Lift Up Contra Costa. I worked on campaigns to oppose jail expansion, terminate the Sheriff Department's collaboration with ICE, redirect $5.2 million in state funds to services for people returning from incarceration, and expand healthcare to undocumented residents in the county. I helped pass rent control in Richmond and helped rebuild a neighborhood park. My background in grassroots organizing and the encouragement of Richmond residents inspired me to run for office in 2020. I made a promise to enhance our city services without incurring debt, and I am proud to say that we are making significant progress.

During my tenure, Richmond has made remarkable improvements. We have raised our credit rating twice in a year and eliminated wasteful loan practices, saving the city an astounding $84 million. By implementing a fair tax system for large corporations, we have significantly increased our revenue streams, allowing us to invest tens of millions in essential community services, including library renovations, new sports fields, and park improvements.

Safety is a priority for our community, and under our administration, we have seen a dramatic crime reduction. Our investments in crime prevention programs led to Richmond’s homicide rate reaching a record low in 2023.

One of our city’s greatest achievements came last month. I served on the ad hoc committee that successfully negotiated an additional half-billion dollars in city taxes from Chevron over the next ten years. This new tax payment, combined with Measure U, has increased our city’s annual revenue by nearly $100 million during my time in office. A diverse coalition made the Chevron settlement happen – residents, community organizations, unions, small businesses, city staff, and my fellow council members. Together, we are proving that unity can drive meaningful change.

As a progressive and a dreamer, I envision a better world while remaining practical and goal-oriented. As a mother, I will continue to tirelessly advocate for our youth, ensuring they have access to opportunities that promote health and social well-being. I will continue to improve our recreation and park services, invest in street safety, and support the growth of green businesses as we transition away from a fossil fuel economy. I aim to revitalize our port to unlock its full potential, creating jobs and enhancing our local economy. Together, we can achieve even more.

My track record as an effective city council member speaks for itself, but there is still much work to be done. Together, we can build on our successes and ensure that Richmond remains a vibrant, safe, and equitable place for all. I am proud to serve as your Vice Mayor and City Councilmember for District 6 and hope to count on your vote for reelection.