Guzman: Proud of the journey on this council campaign

I am writing to share my vision and commitment to the residents of Glendale as I run for the Glendale City Council in the Yucca District. No matter the outcome of this election, I am blessed to have knocked on thousands of doors and made thousands of phone calls with all of you.

I know at times this race has become contentious between my opponent and I, but I have no ill-will towards her. I believe she have a good heart, but I also believe that I am the better equipped candidate to move our district forward and execute policy.

Having lived in Glendale for over 27 years and advocating alongside community leaders like council member Joyce Clark for 25 years, my dedication to our city comes from the love I have for the place where I raised my family. With council member Clark retiring, I am inspired to continue her work and usher in a new era of leadership and advocacy for Yucca District residents.

If elected, my first priority will be to bring new, high-paying jobs to Glendale through economic development and investment. By initiating new infrastructure projects that will return high-paying jobs and revenue; and fostering small business growth, we can see Glendale’s overall growth index increase substantially.

I plan to begin this process on day one, but it does not stop there. I will expand on the successful programs that Glendale has already implemented, which provided shelter for more than 1,000 unsheltered residents and have reduced homelessness in the past two years.

I plan to modernize this program by emphasizing substance abuse treatment and mental health counseling, alongside developing more low-cost affordable housing through programs such as rental assistance.

It has been an honor to receive the wndorsements of the Arizona Fraternal Order of Police, and its Glendale Affiliate Lodge 12; and the Professional Firefighters of Arizona and its Glendale affiliate the Glendale Firefighters of Arizona Local 493.

I believe I earned these endorsements because of my robust plan to ensure that every single city budget fully and completely funds public safety to bolster recruitment, training, and equipment. My plan also focuses on building a new fire station in the heart of the Westgate Entertainment District.

Finally, I think all Yucca District residents would like to see the completion of the Glendale Regional Heroes Park expansion plan which includes a new aquatic and recreation center. I plan to continue my advocacy of 25 years and my efforts as a commissioner on the Glendale Parks and Advisory Board to see this through.

I hope to earn your vote July 30 and am excited about the opportunity to serve the Yucca District.