National City is gearing up for its upcoming district elections in November, with candidates vying for positions in Districts 2 and 4. The elections are also set to include a proposal for a parcel tax to address the city’s aging streets and parks.
In District 2, incumbent Jose Rodriguez is seeking re-election against Realtor Randi Castle-Salgado. In District 4, incumbent Marcus Bush is facing challengers Daniel Perez and Victor Arreola. Housing and homelessness are key issues for the candidates, with each proposing different solutions to address these challenges.
Notably, the use of public funds by part-time council members has become a contentious issue in the campaigns. Rodriguez has come under scrutiny for his use of a $100,000 council fund, with allegations that some of the money has been used to support his re-election campaign. Castle-Salgado and Perez have called for a review of the use of these funds, while Bush has defended their use as necessary for effective governance.
In addition to the elections, voters will also decide on Measure R, which proposes a parcel tax to generate funds for repairing streets and parks. The tax rates would vary based on the property type, ranging from $52 for mobile homes to up to $500 for multi-family properties. An advisory Citizen Oversight Committee would be established to ensure transparency in spending the tax revenue.
As National City residents prepare to cast their votes in November, the candidates are actively campaigning on issues of housing, homelessness, and fiscal responsibility to win the trust of the voters.
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