District 4 candidate
JOSE SARMIENTO, 42
Democrat
What is your background and why are you running for Chula Vista City Council?
With over two decades of dedicated service in the financial services industry, particularly in consumer retail banking, my background showcases a profound commitment to public service steeped in leadership and ethics. I’ve refined my skills in addressing financial needs, demonstrating ethical leadership to navigate challenges. Actively engaging with nonprofits, I’ve inspired others to contribute, gaining a firsthand understanding of residents’ multifaceted challenges. Running for Chula Vista City Council, I aim to leverage my expertise and ethical leadership to bridge the gap between financial knowledge and community empowerment. My vision is to create a city where every resident has the tools and opportunities for a prosperous future, contributing significantly to Chula Vista’s well-being and growth through collaborative efforts and a deep-rooted commitment to public service.
What are your top three priorities as a council member and why?
Unity, safety, and inclusion stand as my top three priorities as a council member. Uniting the city, nonprofits, and local businesses is paramount in building financial sustainability. By fostering collaboration, we create a resilient foundation for economic growth and community well-being. Safety is fundamental, and achieving it requires shared communication among neighbors. Strengthening these connections ensures a safer environment for all residents. Inclusion is crucial for addressing the diverse needs of our district. Hearing directly from residents about the issues affecting them is key to formulating effective, sustainable solutions. By promoting an inclusive dialogue, we can develop policies that resonate with the entire community. These priorities align with my commitment to holistic community development, aiming for a Chula Vista that thrives on unity, safety, and inclusivity.
What is District 4 excelling in and why?
District 4 excels as the economic powerhouse of Chula Vista, distinguished by abundant job opportunities, robust economic development, substantial sales tax revenues, and a thriving entrepreneurial landscape. As a bank manager, I witness firsthand the dynamic and resourceful nature of businesses in Southwest Chula Vista. The district’s businesses are marked by determination and a relentless drive to succeed. In my role, I pledge to be the vital conduit between government initiatives and local economic opportunities. My commitment is to keep financial opportunities local, ensuring sustained growth and support for the powerful economic engine of the South Bay and Southwest Chula Vista. District 4’s excellence in economic vitality serves as the foundation for a prosperous and resilient community, and I am dedicated to amplifying and sustaining these achievements through thoughtful and proactive representation.
What is District 4 lacking and what plans do you have to create solutions?
District 4 currently lacks walkability, trees, open park space, public art, and visibility, despite having remarkable restaurants, regional powerhouse businesses, and a dynamic, bi-nationally savvy citizenry. To address these shortcomings, my plans include fostering financial literacy, particularly for newly immigrated residents and their children. I aim to create an atmosphere that promotes opportunity and inclusion, ensuring everyone in our district can thrive. Additionally, I will focus extensively on revitalizing the Broadway corridor. As the Chula Vista Bayfront undergoes development, I see immense opportunities for our local entrepreneurs to succeed. By strategically harnessing the changes in our economy, I will work towards enhancing walkability, green spaces, public art, and overall visibility in District 4. Through these initiatives, I am committed to creating a more vibrant, accessible, and aesthetically pleasing environment that meets the diverse needs of our community.
What makes you the better candidate for City Council and why?
I am the superior candidate for City Council due to my leadership and extensive financial experience, engaging with our community daily to foster financial sustainability. My commitment lies in empowering everyday citizens to enhance their financial well-being. By assisting residents in securing better-paying jobs, facilitating the purchase of their first car, guiding them through home ownership, and providing insights on prudent financial decisions, I contribute to their long-term prosperity. I understand the importance of equipping residents with the knowledge to navigate their income, credit, and financial solutions wisely. My hands-on approach, coupled with a genuine dedication to the economic empowerment of our citizens, distinguishes me as the candidate best positioned to drive positive change and foster financial resilience in our community.
What else would you like for voters to know about you?
I was raised by a hard-working Mexican mother that taught me to be tough and relentless while still caring for others. She told me to learn through adversity, but never give up. She also taught me that the community always needs leadership and guidance to prosper. Now, my wife and three children give me the strength and enthusiasm to continue to help my community prosper.
