Ahead of the November general election, the Southern California News Group compiled a list of questions to pose to the candidates who wish to represent you. You can find the full questionnaire below. Questionnaires may have been edited for spelling, grammar, length and, in some instances, to remove hate speech and offensive language.

MORE: Read all the candidate responses in our Voter Guide

Name: Sergio Farias

Current job title: Mayor, San Juan Capistrano

Political party affiliation: Non-Partisan

Incumbent: Yes

Other political positions held: City Representative for ACCOC

City where you reside: San Juan Capistrano

Campaign website or social media: www.reelectsergiofarias.com

How can the city best meet the demand and mandates for more housing, including at lower prices, while also preserving the quality of life for existing neighborhoods and residents? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)

In response to California’s increasing curtailment of local control and imposition of unwanted housing developments, I have taken the initiative to address these mandates. My goal is to ensure that only housing projects that align with and benefit our community and cater to the evolving housing needs of residents at various life stages are approved. Utilizing my experience, I have implemented strategies to encourage collaboration between developers and the city. This collaboration ensures that our commissioners, residents and City Council have a say in shaping housing projects that resonate with our historical and cultural values.

California is working toward achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2045. Where does climate change fall in your list of priorities? How, if at all, would you address this as a councilmember? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)

Throughout my tenure, climate change has been a fundamental focus for the city and me personally. To demonstrate our commitment, we have initiated several initiatives:

– Transitioning our city’s fleet to eco-friendly electric vehicles.

– Equipping the newly-constructed City Hall with solar panels to harness renewable energy.

– Installing electric vehicle charging stations at the community center to facilitate sustainable transportation.

– Spearheading the conversion of city street lights to energy-efficient LED lights across the entire city.

– Diligently complying with all state mandates pertaining to environmental protection.

These actions collectively underscore our commitment to creating a greener and more sustainable future for our city and District 1 residents.

How should the city balance paying off debts, such as pension liabilities, and building reserves all while meeting residents’ needs? Should a solution involve finding new revenue, trimming the budget, or something else entirely? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)

Under my leadership, San Juan Capistrano has prioritized reducing its pension liability and is on track to eliminate it within a few years. The new City Hall is being constructed without incurring additional debt or issuing bonds. During my tenure, the city has strategically approved the development of luxury hotels and Ganahl Lumber, significantly increasing revenue streams. Our city’s reserves remain robust. It is crucial to maintain fiscally responsible policies to ensure continued financial stability and growth.

In your opinion, what is the biggest need your city faces, and how would you address it? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)

To drastically improve District 1’s quality of life, it is imperative to tackle the persistent parking challenges faced by both residents and visitors. A comprehensive, data-driven approach is essential to address this issue effectively.

Under my guidance, a comprehensive parking study has been commissioned to gather critical data. This study will offer valuable insights into the current parking situation, including:

– An evaluation of the existing parking infrastructure, including the number and location of parking spaces and the availability of parking for various user types (e.g., residents, visitors, businesses).

– An analysis of parking demand, including peak times and days for parking, as well as the impact of major events or attractions on parking needs.

– A review of parking regulations and encompassing existing parking policies.

By addressing the parking challenges in District 1, we can enhance the quality of life for residents, visitors and businesses and foster a more vibrant and sustainable community.

Why would you make a good leader, and how would you represent the diverse communities of your city? (Please limit your answer to 200 words or less.)

As a proven leader and twice-elected mayor on the City Council, I have worked diligently to enhance our community. During my tenure, we have accomplished significant improvements, including rebuilding roads, revitalizing the sports park, adding sidewalks and installing state-of-the-art lighting. We have maintained balanced budgets, increased reserves and embarked on the construction of a new City Hall, all without incurring additional debt.

Furthermore, we have reinvested in our open spaces, preserving our equestrian heritage. We have also strengthened public safety by hiring two new deputy sheriffs for the first time in 20 years.

As a lifelong resident with three generations of family living in District 1, including my daughter and mother, I am deeply committed to elevating the standard of living for all residents, regardless of their background or economic status. My dedication has earned me endorsements from residents and community leaders across party lines.

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