CANDIDATE MARCH TO CHULA VISTA CITY HALL: DISTRICT 3 RECAP

On March 5 Chula VIsta voters in District 3 will choose who will represent them on the city council. The candidates are David Alcaraz, Michael Inzunza, Christos Korgan, Leticia Munguia, and Daniel Rice-Vasquez. below is a recap of some of their thoughts they provided to the star-news on various issues facing the city. David Alacaraz did not participate in the q and a.

Top three priorities as a council member

MICHAEL INZUNZA: Public safety is my number one priority. We have not seen enough of an increase of police officers that we hoped the half penny tax would provide for residents.
We need to provide homeless folks every opportunity to get off the streets by receiving mental health services, drug rehabilitation and adequate places to sleep beyond the city’s bridge shelter and recently purchased motels in conversion for homeless temporary shelters. I strongly believe that allowing homeless residents to tent in front of our homes, schools and parks is irresponsible and is only escalating crime and drug use.
Traffic accidents are becoming more deadly every year in Chula Vista.

Michael Inzunza

We need additional traffic officers to enforce deadly speeds and support for fire fighters.

CHRISTOS KORGAN: Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of District 3 residents. By prioritizing public safety initiatives and advocating for local control, we can tailor solutions that are responsive to the unique needs and concerns of District 3.
I am committed to nurturing the vitality of our local economy by supporting small businesses. By providing resources, incentives, and support systems, we can empower small business owners to succeed,
Addressing the housing crisis is imperative for ensuring the long-term sustainability and inclusivity of our city. Through smart housing development initiatives, we can prioritize affordability, sustainability, and equitable access to housing for all residents.

Christos Korgan

Leticia Munguia: Improve the 911 response times and traffic enforcement by ensuring that police and firefighters have the resources to respond to emergencies quickly and safely.
Invest in our parks, add walking trails, and green spaces
Provide housing that is affordable and secure state and federal funding for first time home buyer, senior and Veterans housing.

Daniel Rice-Vasquez: Public safety, finding the best solutions to homelessness and encampments and responsible use of tax dollars.

In what areas is District 3 lacking?

MICHAEL INZUNZA: District 3 lacks adequate police presence because of the fast growth which increases crime, and we need affordable middle-class housing for our growing families.

Leticia Munguia

CHRISTOS KORGAN: I acknowledge the concerns about the lack of leadership in District 3 that truly captures the voices of constituents. We need to refocus on affordable middle-class homes and be mindful of the impact the growth has on schools, crime, and traffic.

Leticia Munguia: The deep traffic congestion corridors on Olympic and East Lake Parkway, etc. A middle school in District 3 dedicated to East Chula Vista to assist the educational transition to Olympian High School. And there is a need for more job development centers across Chula Vista District 3.

Daniel Rice-Vasquez: Did not answer.

What makes you the best candidate to represent District 3?

MICHAEL INZUNZA: I am fully endorsed by the San Diego County Democratic Party, the Chula Vista Democratic Club, The Eastlake & Bonita Democratic Club, and the San Diego & Imperial Counties Labor Council. I am endorsed by the Chula Vista Police Officers Association, former Chula Vista mayors Greg Cox and Cheryl Cox, and State Senator Steve Padilla. I have volunteered with several nonprofits as a board and committee member including the San Diego Foundation.

Daniel Rice Vasquez

CHRISTOS KORGAN: I understand the needs of our community and am dedicated to responsive leadership.

Leticia Munguia: As the daughter of immigrant parents from Mexico, I saw how hard they worked to give my sisters and me a better life. Their struggles and sacrifices inspired me to advocate for working families, expand healthcare access, support our small businesses, and foster economic development in Chula Vista.
I’ll fight for safer neighborhoods, greater transparency and accountability, more parks and recreation spaces, housing that’s affordable, and support for first time home buyers.

Daniel Rice-Vasquez: I’m the voice of our neighbors a refreshing, new civic minded long-time resident.