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-Hi. My name is Mark Mendez.
I'm running for Seattle City Council
because residents of North Seattle
are ready for a new vision
for District 5 and accountability.
I was born and raised in Seattle,
and I've lived in District 5,
in Lake City for 41 years.
I'm a graduate of U-dub
and Seattle University.
I spent my life and career
working on several local
and global equity issues.
My father was born in the U.S. territory
of Puerto Rico,
and my mom grew up in Lake City.
My great uncle, Joseph Mayer,
created the most beautiful and historic
Seattle street clocks
found in downtown Seattle
and all over the Pacific Northwest.
I have deep roots in Seattle
and deeply care
about the city I grew up in.
I have a record of getting things done
by bringing together
and partnering with a diverse group
of people and organizations
to address
the biggest challenges in Seattle.
I've worked for several nonprofit
education and public organizations.
I was co-chair
of the North District Council,
on the board
of Lake City Neighborhood Alliance,
and on the board
of Meadowbrook Community Care.
I want to bring the same motto of success
I've had working together
with community groups
and organizations
and apply that motto
to all of District 5.
Here is what I'm focused on --
affordable housing and people
experiencing homelessness.
Equity -- bringing more resources
to underserved neighborhoods.
Youth -- more leadership,
civic participation,
and career training programs.
Protecting our environment.
And five, transportation --
expanding Light Rail
and improving access
and reliability
in public transportation.
I worked very closely with refugee
and immigrant families
across District 5.
I've created and managed
several youth programs
to empower the next generation
of leaders in District 5,
and I've worked with community partners
to create the Lake City mural project
to empower youth,
support local businesses,
improve public safety,
build a community with public art.
Together, we can make District 5
the best place to live,
work, learn, and play.
My name is Mark Mendez.
Thank you.