As part of our June 2026 primary voter guide, the Long Beach Post and LAist partnered to ask City Council candidates how they’d handle the issues voters said they cared about most. For more, see an overview of the District 7 race here; answers from the other candidates in this race, Jamies Shuford and Vivian Malauulu; and our guides for all the other local races at LBPost.com/elections.
Long Beach residents tell us again and again that their No. 1 priority is addressing homelessness. Yet despite the city’s efforts, homelessness rose 6.5% in the 2025 city count (and we are awaiting the results of the most recent count). The situation has led many to ask: Is the city’s strategy working, or does something need to change? How would you, if elected, address the city’s homelessness problem?
If elected, I would take a more effective, outcomes-driven approach to homelessness. We cannot just place people in housing; many are not prepared to live independently without support. I would shift from a one-size-fits-all Housing First model to prioritizing substance abuse and mental health services at first contact. Shelters should operate like boarding care facilities with all services on-site until stability is achieved. Then individuals could transition to a scattered site program with intensive case management and step-down support as they move toward independence. We must hold partners accountable to deliver real results and create lasting pathways out of homelessness.
Broadly speaking, crime is down. However, city residents tell us they are increasingly concerned about property and quality of life crimes. How will you address such concerns?
I hear neighbors are increasingly concerned about property and quality-of-life crimes. While overall crime is down, we cannot ignore the impact these issues have on our daily lives. My approach focuses on prevention and opportunity by connecting those at risk to resources, trade skills, and job opportunities so they do not turn to crime. I support increased foot patrols, stronger code enforcement, and working closely with small businesses and residents to address areas where loitering or unsafe activity affects the community. Real change requires a collective effort. Residents, businesses, and city leadership must all be involved. By combining prevention, accountability, and collaboration, we can improve the quality of life in our district.
Additionally, the Long Beach Police Department is experiencing a staffing crisis, leading to long response times. How will you address that?
I am concerned about the Long Beach Police Department staffing shortage and the impact it has on response times. I am aware of the 250 cadets currently going through the academy, and in the interim we must make full use of Community Service Aides, who are members of our community, to address lower-level crimes and quality-of-life issues. Lateral officers we bring in can patrol alongside seasoned officers to ensure our streets are supported while new cadets complete their training. Real public safety also requires community buy-in, so I will continue supporting the neighborhood associations I have aided on the Westside.
The city’s Safe Streets Long Beach plan — an ambitious proposal to make streets safer for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists — is seen as a failure by many. More people were killed last year while walking, biking or riding an e-scooter than died by homicide. We also know that far fewer speeding tickets are being issued. If elected, what will you do to improve traffic safety for all, especially as the city prepares to welcome tourists for the 2028 Olympics?
Even though District 7 has not seen the highest fatalities, we cannot wait for tragedy. The death of Lorna Escusa reminds us action is needed. Citywide pedestrian, bicyclist, and e scooter deaths remain a serious concern, and fewer speeding citations are being issued. I will focus on a realistic, data-driven plan prioritizing sidewalks, crossings, street lighting, and enforcement in District 7. I have been proactive with the Westside Street Safety Campaign, educating neighbors and working with the community to identify high-risk areas. By combining improvements, enforcement, and collaboration, District 7 can lead by example and make streets safer for everyone, especially as Long Beach prepares for the 2028 Olympics.
The city is facing a severe budget deficit of up to $80 million. There are two general solutions: Cut city services and jobs, or find a way to raise new revenue. If elected, how will you handle this?
The city is facing a severe budget deficit that has already been reduced to $61.3 million, but we must continue addressing the gap. I will work with all departments and the city manager to conduct a comprehensive city assessment to identify efficiencies and cost savings, including exploring voluntary pay adjustments where appropriate. At the same time, we need to focus on generating new revenue by capitalizing on opportunities such as the amphitheater and attracting new businesses that align with Long Beach’s values and ideals. By combining careful assessment, fiscal responsibility, and strategic investment, we can reduce the deficit while maintaining all city services and supporting our employees.
Long Beach has spent over $300 million on street and sidewalk repair in recent years, yet streets and sidewalks remain a growing concern (and liability). An audit also raised questions about whether those hundreds of millions were properly spent in the first place. And now, as mentioned, the city is facing a budget crunch. If elected, how will you address street and sidewalk repairs and improvements?
I will prioritize District 7 in a comprehensive city assessment of street and sidewalk spending. This will allow us to identify past inefficiencies and ensure funds are directed to areas that have historically been neglected. While Pacific Avenue will see some refurbishing, streets like Santa Fe have seen better days and must be addressed. I will work closely with the city manager and all departments to create a realistic, data-driven plan that balances urgent repairs with fiscal responsibility. Community input will be central, engaging neighbors to identify the streets and sidewalks that matter most to them. By combining careful assessment, strategic planning, and resident collaboration, we can deliver long-term, meaningful improvements to District 7’s infrastructure while setting a standard.
What do you see as Long Beach’s role in the face of the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement crackdown? Please tell voters what specific actions you intend to take, including what guidance would you give to city employees?
First it’s our undocumented neighbors, next it could be you or me. Long Beach must remain a safe and welcoming city for all residents, and we will not aid federal immigration enforcement agents. Clear directives will be provided to all city staff and departments to ensure policies are followed consistently and residents’ rights are protected. Fear in our communities can ripple through daily life, affecting local businesses, school participation, and community engagement, and District 7 residents should feel protected and supported. I will ensure every department resists federal overreach while providing immigrant residents with resources, guidance on legal protections, and access to community services, so District 7 and all of Long Beach remain safe, inclusive, and economically strong.
Tell voters why you should be elected.
I’m running to bring bold, accountable leadership to District 7. I will fight for safer streets, thriving neighborhoods, and real opportunities for every family and local business. This campaign is rooted in the community, not politics. I will listen, show up, and follow through, making sure residents are part of every decision, not an afterthought. I believe leadership should be earned through action, not promises. I ask you to allow me to earn your trust and your vote so together we can make Long Beach stronger, more inclusive, and a city where everyone has a fair shot to thrive.