Jerry Cano grew up in Old Town National City where gangs were prevalent.
While many of his childhood friends took the wrong path in life, Cano, with the help of a strict father, was able to rise above the gang lifestyle and make something out of his life.
“Out of all my friends I’m the only one from Old Town National City to be able to say that I have the highest position in the city of National City being vice mayor,” he said.
Cano said growing up in Old Town National City, in the city’s west side, has helped him understand community needs.
The councilman has been a part of the city of National City’s most important decisions. From sitting on a committee in selecting the city’s previous city manager Chris Zapata and being part of the group that chose former police chief Adolfo Gonzales.
He’s also served on the city council from 2012 to 2016. Cano said he is seeking reelection because he wants to continue making in impact in the community that he loves.
“I believe that the last four years that I have run, I have been a champion [in serving National City] every year,” he said.
He said his priorities this time around include providing more city services for residents, more public safety and protecting the environment. He also wants to give the city manager more resources and support to succeed.
Cano also envisions a National City with more senior housing.
“We have to develop senior housing,” he said. “Because what are we going to do with our parents? Where are we going to put them? Where are they going to live?. I want my father to be next to me, as close as possible.”
Cano,54, first got into politics volunteering in campaigns alongside former mayors George Waters and Nick Inzuna and current Mayor Ron Morrison.
Through these campaigns, he said, he learned how to successful run one. So when he was approached by Waters to run for city council he said there was no hesitation.
Cano served his community before he became a council member. He said twenty years ago he went around town cleaning up neighborhoods, removing graffiti and picking up trash.
When Cano is not on the dais he works as a contract specialist for the federal government.
