Q&A: Warden City Council Position 4
Leilani Pruneda, pictured, is running against Jesus Martinez for Warden City Council Position 5
WARDEN — Leilani Pruneda is running against Jesus Martinez for Position 5 on the Warden City Council.
The Columbia Basin Herald asked both candidates the questions below with matching word count restrictions and a deadline to submit responses. Martinez did not respond by the given deadline. Pruneda’s responses are below.
Election Day is Nov. 7.
Would you say Warden needs more commercial development, and if so, how do you plan on making that happen?
Pruneda: I do believe Warden has potential to endorse more commercial development. However, let's keep in mind that along with commercial development comes other predicaments. I want to make sure those conversations are being had about new challenges we could potentially face beforehand. I want to focus on how we are going to prepare, execute and be successful in doing so. While I believe the economic growth, increased job opportunities and cultural diversity would be spectacular, on the other side of that comes a demand for housing, public services and additional police presence. I want to face those challenges first.
What is your opinion of Warden’s financial and economic status, and are there any specific practices or changes you’d like to implement regarding that status?
Pruneda: I want to be very transparent and tactful with this question. I do feel that Warden is facing challenges that are hindering progress and that needs to be addressed. I want to find solutions.
In your opinion, what are Warden’s strengths and how do you plan on capitalizing on them?
Pruneda: Personally, I truly believe that our strength in Warden is within our very own community. It is the residents of Warden, and I feel very passionate about that. There is a significance to the generations of families who call Warden home. The sense of unity and belonging is not something many families experience in a lifetime; we take pride in that. Community members have the ability to make an impact and influence the direction of Warden and that is our strength. However, that can only occur when residents are correctly informed, and actively invited to participate. I want to capitalize on the power of our community. It can lead to increased civic engagement, strong social bonds, and that is a thriving community that benefits all residents, and that is what we need.