Candidate for
Council Member; City of Garden Grove

Dina Nguyen has dedicated most of her life to serving the public, both in her work and volunteer activities. She's lived in Orange County since her arrival in California in 1977. She now resides in Garden Grove with her family.

Dina has served Orange County for 18 years as an employee of the Superior Court and has had the opportunity to work along side with many judges, peace officers, and volunteers. While working at the Court, she has gained an insight to critical issues affecting both our criminal and civil justice systems. In addition, the experiences acquired at the Court relating to supervision, operation during budget cuts, and management have assisted Dina in formulating better policies and in working with City staff to help deliver better and more efficient services to residents.

2004-2006, Dina served as Commissioner to the Garden Grove Neighborhood Improvement and Conservation Commission (GGNICC). The GGNICC recommends programs to the City Council to improve and preserve neighborhoods through zoning enforcement, housing rehabilitation, street improvement, and other housing-related programs. Dina's Commission experience has added to her understanding of the often competing interests that a city government must weigh and balance in order to formulate and achieve its long-term vision.

In 2006, Dina was elected to the Garden Grove City Council for a four-year-term. While on the Council, Dina has voted AGAINST excessive and drastic water rate increases, real property ambulance tax increase, and eminent domain acquisitions. At the same time, Dina has consistently cast her support for public safety programs and services, community development and recreation, and the development of local businesses and the tourist industry. The economic crisis of the country has inevitably trickled down to the local city level within the last few years. This, unfortunately, has affected the livelihood of many local residents, and many of them have become economic victims. Therefore, Dina has given added attention and focus to the restructuring of the city's work force and budget without jeopardizing basic services to residents.

Dina has an open door policy. She welcomes all comments and suggestions relating to her work and to the welfare and safety of residents. Please email your concerns to: dina4council@yahoo.com. No issue is too small, and every person is important.

Dina is most proud of her contribution and/or volunteer work with:

• Orange County Community Services Programs,
• Boy Scouts of America,
• The American Red Cross,
• Team of Advocates for Special Kids,
• Sustainable Community Foundation of OC,
• The Susan B. Komen Foundation.

One of Dina's favorite heroes: Abraham Lincoln, visionary president/leader and father of the Civil Enlightenment that all men are created equal.

Dina's favorite holiday: Christmas, a remembrance of our creator and of peace, goodwill, and joy to all men.

Dina's favorite patriot song: My Country `tis of Thee, sweet land of liberty.

One of Dina's favorite classical movies: Gone With The Wind, a story of survival and the sacrifices it takes to keep this country united as one.

Dina's most critical and appreciated profession: Teachers, the creators of tomorrow's leaders.

Dina's favorite past time: Time for reflection and prayers.

Dina's arch enemy: Anyone who fosters societal chaos, advances the eradication of intellectuals, promotes/engages in uncivilized and inhumane treatment of any human being, or takes advantage of the weak and less fortunate.