Peter Garcia

Taxes / Budget I am committed to running a fiscally stable city with a strong, resilient economy that benefits every citizen. Responsible governance, transparent fiscal policies, and sustainable economic growth are my priorities. The key to fiscal stability lies in a balanced budget, and ensuring long-term financial security for the City. Throughout my term I have ensured that the City maintains a balanced budget in line with the needs of our community. Housing I have also been a supporter and proponent of increasing our City’s affordable housing stock to provide housing options to address a variety of income levels. I have actively participated in strengthening our partnership with the County of San Bernardino to access funding and to help integrate mental health and addiction services with housing programs to address the root causes of homelessness. Housing I am committed to addressing the homeless issue methodically and comprehensively, ensuring that every individual has access to safe, affordable housing, and the support necessary to achieve stability and well-being. Homelessness is not just a housing issue but a multifaceted problem requiring a holistic approach. To that end I have supported a housing first approach to provide immediate shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness that is combined with a strategy that offers wrap around services and a pathway to permanent housing. Criminal Justice / Public Safety Over the last four years I have been committed to strengthening our law enforcement and emergency services. Examples of this include adding 12 new Police Officers to our police department to meet the needs of our growing community, investing in the latest crime-fighting technologies, and building a new Fire Station in the north end of our community. Fire Station 81 was constructed to further the City's emergency preparedness and to shorten emergency response times. Arts / Culture I understand the importance of having a central place in our community to dine, shop, be entertained, and to have a cultural sense of place. This is why during my time as your Councilmember I have helped direct the visioning of a revitalized downtown that will be branded as “The Forge District” in tribute to our City’s Steel Town roots. The downtown area will have a variety of entertainment options anchored by the new Stage RED Theater, restaurants, shops, and modern, affordable housing. The new downtown will connect our growing and diverse community. Key projects that have been completed include Stage Red Theater and Spaggis restaurant, and a new parking garage is under construction. I intend to continue to build the foundation for the entertainment district our City deserves.