May McNeal
Oct 1, 2024
Your Voice, Your City: Six Candidates Want to Shape Vallejo's Future
The upcoming elections for Vallejo's City Council in Districts 1, 3, and 6 are not just another bureaucratic routine—they're pivotal moments that could shape the future of your community. With pressing issues like economic renewal, public safety, and community revitalization on the line, every vote counts in determining who will represent these districts.
As residents prepare to vote, the stakes are higher than ever. Each candidate brings a unique vision and set of priorities that reflect the pressing needs and aspirations for all of Vallejo. Dive into the profiles of each candidate to understand who they are, what they stand for, and how they plan on making a difference. Your vote is your voice — make it count.
(Candidates listed below are in alphabetical order by their last name and not listed by preference.)
(Click the map to zoom in on your district.)
About District 1 and Candidates
Carl A. Bonner: A passionate advocate for community engagement, Bonner states, "I am running to be your voice on the City Council. My priorities include improving public safety, supporting local businesses, and ensuring our neighborhoods are clean and well-maintained." Bonner's campaign focuses on grassroots community involvement and practical solutions to everyday issues facing District 1 residents.
Alexander Matias: With a background in urban planning, Matias emphasizes sustainable development. He says, "My vision for District 1 includes smart growth, green spaces, and a thriving local economy. I will work tirelessly to attract new businesses while preserving our neighborhood's character." Matias's campaign highlights his expertise in balancing development with community needs.
Brenda Plechaty: A long-time resident and community organizer, Plechaty declares, "I'm committed to making District 1 a place where families can thrive. My focus is on improving our schools, creating job opportunities, and enhancing public services." Plechaty's campaign emphasizes her deep roots in the community and her track record of volunteer work.
About District 3 and Candidate
Dr. Tonia Lediju: As the sole candidate for District 3, Lediju brings a wealth of experience in public administration. She states, "Vallejo is at a crossroads – our city has the capacity to be a thriving, affordable, and prosperous community or to continue its current path. I am running to ensure we choose progress and prosperity." Lediju's campaign focuses on her expertise in financial management and her vision for a revitalized Vallejo.
About District 6 and Candidates
Councilwoman Cristina Arriola: Seeking re-election, Arriola points to her accomplishments during her first term. She says, "I've fought hard for District 6, bringing attention to issues like food deserts, crime, and neglected infrastructure. With your support, I'll continue to be a strong voice for our community." Arriola's campaign emphasizes her record of advocacy and her plans for continued improvement in South and Central Vallejo.
Helenmarie "Cookie" Gordon: A community activist and tenant commissioner for the Vallejo Housing Authority, Gordon states, "I'm running to bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to our district's challenges. My priorities include affordable housing, mental health services, and economic opportunities for all." Gordon's campaign highlights her grassroots experience and her commitment to inclusive community development.
Read each candidate's full statement.
What makes these elections so significant? Let's explore the key issues at stake.
Affordable Housing and Homelessness Solutions: Multiple candidates, including Ravi Shankar and Helen-Marie "Cookie" Gordon, prioritize tackling the housing affordability crisis and addressing homelessness in Vallejo.
Public Safety and Community Trust: Several candidates, including Carl A. Bonner and Cristina Arriola, highlight the need to improve public safety and rebuild trust between law enforcement and the community.
Economic Development and Fiscal Responsibility: Candidates like Pippin Dew and Tonia Lediju emphasize the importance of attracting businesses, creating jobs, and managing the city's finances effectively to address budget deficits and improve public services.
Quality of Life Improvements: Candidates across the board, such as Brenda Plechaty and Alexander Matias, focus on enhancing city services, maintaining infrastructure, and creating a cleaner, healthier environment for residents.
A Call to Action for Vallejo:
Local elections often have the most direct impact on your daily life. Your vote in the City Council election is an investment in your neighborhood's future and the overall well-being of Vallejo.
Vallejo residents are urged to register to vote (if you are not or have moved within the city) and carefully consider each candidate's platform and attend forums to learn more about each candidate's platform and ask questions directly. By actively participating in this democratic process, Vallejo citizens can ensure that their next mayor truly represents the community's aspirations and needs.
The future of our city depends on informed and engaged voters making their voices heard at the ballot box.
✅Remember to #registertovote.
The deadline to register is: Monday, October 21st.
✅Remember to vote by mailing in your ballot or going to the ballot box.
It all goes down on Tuesday, November 5th.
✅Remember voting is your right, voting is your choice, voting is your voice!
About General Vallejo District Information:
Vallejo adopted a district-based election system in 2019, moving away from an at-large format.
The city recently went through a redistricting process following the 2020 census, with minimal changes to the existing boundaries.
The redistricting process had to be completed by April 17, 2022.
Do you know what district you are in for city, county, and state? It's important to know your detailed boundary information for all districts. For precise district information, do a District Lookup.