Name: Penelope Larry
Occupation: Asset Manager
Political Party: Democrat
What is your vision for District 2 and why do you want the job?
My vision for District 2 includes clean streets, thriving businesses on the Del Paso Blvd. corridor, affordable housing for low income families, housing for individuals unsheltered, which includes mental health services, market rate housing so we are known as the “low income area” of Sacramento, and working collaboratively with neighborhood associations to establish cohesive relationships that help our community to thrive.
What are the biggest challenges facing District 2 and how do you plan to solve them?
The biggest challenges as I see them include blight. I propose to first clean up our streets. In a clean place and seeing clean streets when we drive around, we can better resolve the rest of our problems. Another challenge is the large influx of unsheltered individuals in the District. I propose to work with City and County offices to have any available housing to be first offered to D2, and to have mental health services provided prior to moving into permanent housing. Also, attract businesses that help our community to offer a variety of services needed for a diverse community.
What are your views on how to address homelessness?
The homeless first need mental health services prior to being offered housing to help them not to get into that position again and to learn the skills necessary to maintain a home, and to assist them to find gainful employment or receive training for a job where they can be productive members of society.
How can you keep your constituents safe and promote business?
For safety and business promotion, we need better lighting in business corridors and enhanced security with local neighborhood organizations that most likely know the perpetrators and can assist in de-escalating situations.
What does police reform look like to you?
Police reforms looks like continuous sensitivity training for law enforcement, actively hiring personnel that look like the community it represents, and creating intentional opportunities to socialize.
Why should African Americans vote for you?
African Americans should vote for me because I come to the table drama-free and without barriers to overcome regarding past negative associations in the community; I have Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, so I have the capacity and capability to learn anything. I am a business consultant and manage a $20+ million commercial property. I work with City staff and team members to accomplish running a well oiled machine. I am results oriented and purpose driven. I received my High School diploma last year from Highlands Community Charter School. Through my over 10 years of work in the community, I have worked alongside community leaders and I’ve been honored to have been appointed an honorary Pacer for life. I would love to have YOUR vote. www.PenelopeLarry.com