Selected interview transcript

This interview transcript has been modified for clarity and conciseness.

What brought you to the San Joaquin Valley? Is it where you would like to stay or your children to stay? Why or why not? 

Economic opportunities and to have a better life for my family. To make enough money to live a happy life. It has been going well, I would like to stay. If this is where my children want to stay, that’s good. if not, wherever they would like to go is fine. 

Describe your life 10 years ago as compared to now. Consider the following: location, significant places, daily routes.

Things have increased in price. Salary hasn't changed much. Things get more expensive but the salary stays about the same. Parks have gotten dry, there are less trees - they die. Less trees everywhere and the ones there are, are almost dead. 

What did you want to be when you grew up? If you have children, what do they want to be? What/where do you want them to be? What are your dreams for them? What do you see as obstacles to them achieving these dreams?

I would have loved to have my own company - be a successful businessman. I would like for them to become whatever they desire to become. My dream is for them to study what they like and to have a great career where they can be very happy. Challenges would be money. Support would always be given to them. 

If you were elected to office (County Board of Supervisors or mayor) and had unlimited power to make any changes you thought would improve your community or your environment, what would be the top 3 things on your agenda? County Board of Supervisors?

Manage/diminish gang involvement in the community and increase safety, improve the roads, [and] provide financial assistance to those families that need it