My Plan For Stockton

By Motecuzoma Patrick Sanchez

My overall plan to improve Stockton and raise our standard of living and vitality includes: Economic Development, Public Safety, Community Revitalization.

Rebuild Stockton's Industry- This approach is two pronged. I will work aggressively with the Department of Economic Development to recruit new business and industry to Stockton. I will also work to make sure we are best using the resources that we do have and work to strengthen our partnerships with organizations like San Joaquin Partnership, Chambers of Commerce, and the Governor's Office of Economic Development and our state and federal elected officials to ensure we are moving our city forward economically.

Stockton lacks industry, which affects our ability to circulate money into our local economy and support local businesses. Our unemployment rate is perennially double or triple that of the national average and our median income level is much lower than the state average. It is important to bring jobs here and ones that pay a living wage that supports families.

Support Local Business- The other approach is to make sure that our city government is operating in a way that is conducive to small business success in our city. This means streamlining the permit process and revisiting fees to make sure that we are helping business owners to succeed rather than hindering their business. Small businesses are the backbone of our community and our local ordinances should reflect that by making sure we are giving them a fighting chance. Where necessary and as much as possible, government contracts should contract with local businesses; keeping our money in Stockton.

Public Safety

Stockton's high crime rate is tied to its depressed economy. Our crime rates are consistently much higher than state and national averages in all categories. Our city is one of the most dangerous in America, which affects our quality of life and ability to attract and keep quality jobs. I am committed to ensuring that our police department is making full use of its resources, acting strategically and efficiently in partnership with community and county, state, and federal agencies to best use the limited resources that we have. This includes ensuring that funds raised through Measure A are being used for their intended purpose and that are police department has the tools and resources needed to be effective and best serve the community. I envision a community where families feel safe taking their children to the park and safe in their own homes everywhere in Stockton. In order to change the current paradigm it will take a community effort and commitment from all sectors working together as a community.

Community Revitalization

Many of Stockton's current challenges are the result of failed policies of the past. Our community has become fractured which affects how we interact and decision that are made. I believe city government can be a catalyst for structural change that helps rebuild community ties and fosters a culture of inclusion and ownership. I envision a renaissance for our city where all of our diverse cultures are included and celebrated as one of our city's greatest treasures. I would like to see Stockton once again become a destination for culture, arts, music, parks, libraries, innovation, and technology. This is the place we all call home and I am committed to promoting a new sense of pride while addressing our challenges and being creative in seeking practical solutions. This begins with having higher standards for our selves and our city government.