Two women who have served on the Chula Vista City Council are returning for another full term.
For the next four years, incumbent Pamela Bensoussan and former State Assemblywoman Mary Salas said they would work to bring economic prosperity to the city of Chula Vista.
Bensoussan beat out challenger Larry Breitfelder by more than 20 percent for seat 3 while Salas won over Linda Wagner by more than 16 percent in the Nov. 6 election.
“I am honored that a large majority of voters placed their trust in me,” Bensoussan said. “I am humbled by this great responsibility that I am privileged to share with my council colleagues and I am pleased to have an opportunity in my second term to work together on a five-member team that includes someone as committed and experienced as newly-elected Mary Salas.”
Bensoussan said her overarching goal is to help the city achieve economic health and prosperity.
“I am excited to continue moving our vision forward of becoming a vibrant, environmentally sustainable city,” she said.
Her vision includes bringing a “jobs university” to Chula Vista along with a research technology park that will prepare students for 21st century careers, as well as a world class waterfront, while balancing housing, recreational and educational opportunities.
Bensousssan characterizes the city as unique and yet to reach its full potential.
“Thanks to the many shared sacrifices by our city’s workforce and residents, we are positioned to begin a new era — one of efficiency and cooperation,” she said. “I am confident that we can make great strides.”
Salas said the city is facing newer and bigger opportunities.
“The ground work has been set on much of what’s going to happen,” she said. “The bayfront is a wonderful opportunity for us and I think that our economy is going to improve and we’re going to be able to restore some cuts to services.”
As far as expectations, Salas predicts a cohesive council.
“I think that we’re going to work together,” she said. “I think that it’s a great opportunity for us to get a fresh start and I’m just very, very optimistic.”
Salas is also hopeful for the return of the fiscal health to the city in focusing on job creation and development.
“It is very important as well as … I think that we’re on the verge of turning things around … we can have our core services that people want, expect and need,” she said. “It was just a privilege, an honor for the citizens of Chula Vista to elect me once again and I’m very thankful for their vote and will work hard to make sure that Chula Vista is a wonderful place for everyone’s family.”
Bensoussan and Salas will be sworn in at the next City Council meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 4, and termed out City Councilman Steve Castaneda will give remarks regarding his tenure.
