• Pasadena City Council District A Candidate:

  • Carlos Heredia

    Phone: N/A
    Email: info@votecarlosheredia.com
    Facebook:     N/A
    Website: votecarlosheredia.com

  • Candidate Questionnaire​:
     
    1. What inspired you to seek this position? 
    District A deserves a leader who understands the community’s needs and is committed to improving our quality of life. With over 23 years of experience in civil engineering and a strong background in public service, I have dedicated my career to infrastructure improvements and responsible planning. I have worked closely with local government to implement real change—lowering costs for residents, improving public spaces, and ensuring smart development. I am running for City Council to bring this level of dedication to District A, ensuring our neighborhoods receive the attention, investment, and representation they deserve.
     
    2. What qualifications, experience, and leadership skills prepare you for this role, including crisis response, crime prevention, financial literacy, and public communication?
    With over 23 years in civil engineering, I have successfully led infrastructure projects, including bridges, road expansions, and utility improvements across multiple jurisdictions. My leadership experience in local government has given me firsthand knowledge of managing public funds, responding to community needs, and driving impactful initiatives. I have worked closely with law enforcement and emergency responders to enhance public safety and have consistently prioritized financial responsibility in managing community resources. As a Pasadena resident, father, and public servant, I am committed to clear communication and transparent governance to ensure the voices of District A are always heard.
     
    3. What are your top priorities for the first 100 days if elected, and which city policies or initiatives will you continue or change?
    Enhance public safety by increasing community policing efforts and crime prevention programs. Address infrastructure issues, prioritizing road repairs, flood mitigation, and drainage improvements in District A. Streamline the permitting process to support small businesses and encourage investment. Improve government transparency through open town halls and accessible communication channels. 
     
    4. How do you plan to embrace the city of Pasadena, including uniting City Council, foster collaboration, and ensure transparency in your leadership while effectively representing all Pasadena constituents?
    My leadership approach is rooted in teamwork and open communication. I will work with all council members, regardless of differences, to focus on solutions that benefit the entire city while keeping District A’s priorities front and center. I will ensure transparency by making city updates readily available, hosting community meetings, and actively engaging with residents to address their concerns. A strong and unified City Council starts with strong leadership, and I am committed to working with my colleagues to move Pasadena forward.
     
    5. What actions will you take to increase the number of city projects awarded to small and local businesses? 
    I will advocate for a local-business-first policy, ensuring Pasadena-based businesses receive fair consideration for city contracts. The bidding process must be more accessible, and I will work to simplify requirements so that small businesses have a real opportunity to compete. I will also push for educational workshops to guide business owners through the process of securing city contracts, fostering a stronger local economy.
     
    6. What is your vision for Pasadena’s economic development, including plans for the convention center, city-owned land, and infrastructure improvements to encourage business investment?
    Pasadena has immense potential for economic growth, and District A must be a part of that progress. I support revitalizing the convention center to attract regional events and tourism, which will boost local businesses. City-owned land should be developed strategically, bringing in industries that create jobs and improve quality of life. Infrastructure investments must focus on improving roads, utilities, and public spaces to make Pasadena a business-friendly and resident-focused city.
     
    7. Business-friendly policies rank as the number one priority for chamber members. What are your plans to streamline the permitting process and improve ordinances to attract and support new businesses while also improving flexibility for development in Pasadena?
    The permitting process must be modernized and made more efficient. I will push for a review of outdated ordinances that slow down business development and advocate for a streamlined, digital-friendly process that reduces wait times. Additionally, I will work to establish a dedicated city liaison to assist business owners, ensuring they have the guidance needed to navigate city regulations smoothly.
     
    8. What are your plans for improving and maintaining Pasadena’s infrastructure, including roads, sewage, drainage, water supply, high speed internet, and the power grid?
    Infrastructure is one of my top priorities. With my extensive experience in civil engineering, I understand the importance of strategic investment in roads, drainage, and utilities. District A, in particular, needs urgent attention to prevent flooding, improve road conditions, and expand access to high-speed internet. I will advocate for increased funding to modernize our water supply systems and collaborate with power providers to enhance the reliability of our energy grid.
     
    9. How will you leverage modern technology to streamline city operations, improve efficiency, and prioritize long-term growth? What specific innovations or technology solutions will you implement to enhance public services, economic development, and infrastructure management in Pasadena?
    Pasadena must embrace technology to improve city services and operations. I will push for online platforms that allow residents to pay bills, submit permits, and access city resources with ease. Implementing smart traffic management systems, expanding automated public safety alerts, and utilizing data-driven planning tools will help Pasadena grow efficiently. Innovation should be at the forefront of our economic and infrastructure development.
     
    10. Business and citizens alike require a secure city in which to work and live.  What is your experience and plan for public safety for Pasadena?
    Public safety is a priority for District A. I will work closely with law enforcement to implement proactive policing strategies, increase patrol presence in high-crime areas, and invest in community policing programs that build trust between officers and residents. Additionally, I will support initiatives that enhance emergency response times and ensure our first responders have the resources they need to keep Pasadena safe.
     
    11. How can the city ensure adequate healthcare infrastructure, including mental health care, hospitals, doctors, and accountability in healthcare services?
    Pasadena must work with healthcare providers to expand services, especially in mental health. I support partnerships with local hospitals, clinics, and nonprofits to improve access to care. Mobile health clinics and outreach programs can play a critical role in serving underserved populations. I will also advocate for increased accountability in healthcare services to ensure residents receive quality care.
     
    12. Access to talent and workforce is the number one challenge facing Pasadena businesses. What role should the government play in workforce development, including investment in training programs and partnerships with colleges and the ISDs?
    Workforce development is key to Pasadena’s economic success. I will advocate for increased investment in vocational training programs, expand partnerships between businesses, colleges, and school districts, and support apprenticeship initiatives that connect students with career opportunities. By creating stronger pathways to skilled jobs, we can ensure that businesses have the workforce they need while giving Pasadena residents greater access to stable and well-paying careers.
     

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