Santa Clara County Voter's Guide On Children's Issues

City of San José, District 2

Joe Lopez

https://lopezforsanjose.com/

I raised my own family in San Jose. Making sure other families can thrive here is THE reason I am running for City Council. That means making sure our streets are safe, clean and free of encampments; making sure city government is accountable and working for us; and fighting to make sure our city continues to be a great place to run a business.

  1. Over 80% of voters polled say they want elected officials to prioritize children and families. What are the top three issues affecting our children and families and how will you make our region a place where all families can thrive?

    San Jose was once the safest city in America. We lost that status, but I have a plan to get it back: hire more police and make sure they have the support they need to keep us safe, so our children can grow up in environments where they can thrive.
    - Build more safe homeless shelters and require that they are used. I support Mayor Mahan’s focus on cleaning up encampments and I’m proud that my district has done its fair share of hosting shelters. As Councilmember I will fight to make sure other districts do the same. I opposed the jail diversion program on Monterey and Bernal, which could have housed dangerous individuals in our neighborhoods, near multiple schools and daycares.

  2. High quality childcare improves school readiness and parents' workforce participation. What will you do to improve access to high quality childcare and preschool programs in our diverse communities?

    There are many working-class and immigrant families in our district, many who have both parents in the household working. That diversity is one of our great strengths – but it’s no secret that too many still find it hard to make ends meet, especially when facing rising costs in childcare, housing, groceries, or utility bills. City government needs to get creative about how we bring more job training programs and high-paying jobs to our district, how we can partner with those companies to offer childcare to their workers, and how we can build more housing downtown near jobs and well-served transit. The key to making this happen is getting City Hall focused on the basics.

  3. Much of the student achievement gap has been linked to the opportunity gap that children in low-income families and children of color confront (e.g., lack of access to healthy food, preschool, tutors, and enrichment activities). If elected, what will you do to increase equity of opportunity?

    My parents were farmworkers. I spent most of my childhood working in the fields, or with my grandparents learning English at the dinner table or out in the yard. I know the challenges kids who come from low-income, immigrant communities face. As a kid, I even spent some time in
    juvenile hall for stealing a radio. I was able to get back on track and finish school because of the strong support from my family and community. That experience showed me that we need to invest in more programs for at-risk youth to help them get back on the right track and stay out of trouble. As head of the Latino Peace Officers’ Association, I’m proud that we helped many kids pursue higher education and careers.

  4. What steps will you take to improve inclusion and outcomes for children with disabilities and their families in our community?

    As a retired sheriff and father and caregiver of a disabled adult son, I understand the unique challenges families of children with disabilities face. On city council, I’ll advocate for inclusive education and accessible community programs, ensuring all children have the support they need to thrive. I will push for increased funding for special education, early intervention services, and inclusive recreational programs. Additionally, I will work to expand resources for families, such as respite care and support groups, so parents can feel empowered and supported in raising their children in a truly inclusive community.

  5. If elected, how will you use the resources of your new role to improve children's well-being and access to mental and behavioral health services?

    As a former Sheriff’s Deputy, I’ve seen firsthand how early intervention can prevent crises down the road. If elected to city council, I’ll work to expand partnerships between schools, mental health providers, and community organizations to improve access to behavioral health services for children. I’ll advocate for increased support for school counselors and social workers to ensure students have the support they need. Additionally, I’ll promote training for educators and law enforcement to recognize and respond to mental health issues early, keeping kids safe, out of the criminal justice system and on track for a brighter future.