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Daniel Damian (Baldwin Park City Council At-large, California, candidate 2024)
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Daniel Damian (also known as Danny) ran for election to the Baldwin Park City Council At-large in California. He was on the ballot in the general election on November 5, 2024.[source]
Damian completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
[1]Biography
Daniel Damian provided the following biographical information via Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey on October 3, 2024:
- Birth date: May 23, 1975
- Birth place: Montebello, California
- High school: Baldwin Park High School
- Gender: Male
- Religion: Catholic
- Profession: Business Owner
- Prior offices held:
- Council Member (2020-2024)
- Incumbent officeholder: Yes
- Campaign slogan: Leading Baldwin Park with Integrity and Vision!
- Campaign website
- Campaign endorsements
- Campaign Facebook
- Campaign Instagram
Elections
General election
General election for Baldwin Park City Council At-large (3 seats)
The following candidates ran in the general election for Baldwin Park City Council At-large on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | ||
Daniel Damian (Nonpartisan)  | ||
| Emmanuel J. Estrada (Nonpartisan) | ||
| Laura A. Franklin (Nonpartisan) | ||
| Marlen Garcia (Nonpartisan) | ||
| Manuel Lozano (Nonpartisan) | ||
| Christopher Saenz (Nonpartisan) | ||
| George Joel Silva (Nonpartisan) | ||
| Joanna Valenzuela (Nonpartisan) | ||
| ||||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Election results
Endorsements
To view Damian's endorsements as published by their campaign, click here. Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Damian in this election.
Campaign themes
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Daniel Damian completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Damian's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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At the early age of 21, in 1996, I embraced the entrepreneurial spirit and started my own business. This venture taught me invaluable lessons in resilience, innovation, and the importance of hard work. It also solidified my commitment to making a positive impact not just in business, but in our community as well.
For over 15 years, I have dedicated myself to serving Baldwin Park. My passion for giving back and helping those in need has driven me to lead and participate in numerous community organizations and initiatives. Whether it's organizing local events, supporting youth programs, or assisting families in times of need, I have always believed in the power of community and the importance of coming together to uplift one another.
For the past four years, I have had the privilege of serving you as your council member. During this time, I have worked tirelessly to represent your interests and advocate for the needs of our community. My deep roots in Baldwin Park and my commitment to service guide every decision I make, ensuring that our city remains a vibrant, inclusive, and prosperous place for all of us to call home.- Public Safety and Homelessness Solutions: My top priority has been and continues to be ensuring public safety for all Baldwin Park residents. During my time on the City Council, I have worked to lower homelessness by 70%, stabilize our police department, and create innovative solutions to ensure safer neighborhoods. If re-elected, I will expand these efforts by partnering with local organizations, modernizing emergency response systems, and increasing resources for those in need to prevent homelessness and crime from rising.
- City Services and Infrastructure: Improving city services and modernizing our infrastructure are crucial for a growing community like Baldwin Park. During my term, I’ve led initiatives to enhance public spaces, repair roads, and ensure reliable public utilities. Additionally, I’ve worked on opening more green spaces for our residents to enjoy. If re-elected, I will continue to focus on upgrading our infrastructure, improving access to essential city services, and ensuring our neighborhoods are well-maintained and sustainable for the future.
- Youth and Community Programs: Investing in our youth and community is an investment in Baldwin Park’s future. Over the past four years, I have expanded youth programs, increased funding for senior services, and championed community engagement through events like the annual mental health walk and resource fair. I believe these programs are essential for building a vibrant and inclusive community. If re-elected, I will continue advocating for more youth development programs, community activities, and resources to support residents of all ages.
Direct Representation of the Community: Unlike state or federal offices, City Council members work directly with residents on a daily basis, addressing local issues such as public safety, infrastructure, housing, and community programs. This close proximity to the community allows the council to respond quickly to the immediate needs of residents, making it a vital institution for grassroots democracy.
Local Policy Making and Implementation: City Councils have the power to create ordinances, approve budgets, and manage local resources. They oversee everything from public works and zoning laws to the allocation of city funds for parks, and public safety. This level of control allows the council to directly shape the character and development of the city, affecting the day-to-day lives of residents.
Collaboration with State and Federal Government: While the City Council focuses on local governance, it plays a crucial role in collaborating with state and federal entities. It helps ensure that state policies are effectively implemented at the local level.
Accountability and Civic Engagement: As the governing body closest to the people, City Councils promote transparency and accountability in local governance. Their decisions are made in public forums, where residents can participate, voice their concerns, and stay informed. This helps foster a strong sense of civic engagement and trust between government officials and the public.
Accountability: Officials should take responsibility for their actions and be answerable to the public. Listening to community concerns and delivering on promises is key to good leadership.
Vision and Leadership: A strong leader has a clear vision for the community’s future and works diligently to achieve it. They should inspire others and create solutions that address both immediate and long-term needs.
Empathy and Inclusivity: Understanding and addressing the needs of all residents, especially marginalized communities, is crucial. Elected officials should champion policies that foster inclusivity and improve quality of life for everyone.
Collaboration and Communication: Effective officials must work well with others, including fellow leaders and constituents, to achieve shared goals. Open communication and active listening are essential for building strong relationships and making informed decisions.
Commitment to Service: I have a deep passion for serving my community, which has been demonstrated through my work on the City Council and various community initiatives. I am driven by the desire to improve the lives of others and address the needs of Baldwin Park residents.
Leadership and Experience: My background as a business owner and my experience on the City Council have given me strong leadership skills, decision-making abilities, and the expertise needed to navigate complex issues. I know how to bring people together and find practical solutions that benefit the community.
Integrity and Transparency: I value honesty and integrity in all aspects of life. Being open, transparent, and accountable to the public is essential to building trust with the community, and I prioritize these values in my work.
Problem-Solving Ability: Over the years, I have tackled challenges like homelessness, public safety, and infrastructure improvements. My focus is always on finding practical, long-term solutions that address the root causes of issues rather than just short-term fixes.
Empathy and Compassion: I strive to listen to the concerns of all residents and approach every situation with empathy. I believe in creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels heard and valued, and I make decisions based on the best interests of the community as a whole.
Policy Making and Governance: A key responsibility is crafting and approving policies that enhance public safety, infrastructure, housing, and overall quality of life. City Council members are responsible for setting priorities that align with the community’s best interests.
Fiscal Oversight: Ensuring that the city's budget is managed responsibly is critical. An elected official must oversee the allocation of funds, make sure tax dollars are used efficiently, and maintain transparency in financial matters.
Public Safety and Infrastructure: Protecting residents by maintaining and improving public safety systems and city infrastructure is vital. This includes addressing issues related to law enforcement, emergency services, transportation, and public spaces.
Economic Development: Promoting local businesses and encouraging economic growth is a key responsibility. Council members should attract new businesses, create job opportunities, and foster a supportive environment for entrepreneurs.
Community Engagement: Engaging with residents and keeping them informed about city projects, policy changes, and opportunities to get involved is crucial. Elected officials must encourage active participation from all community members and be responsive to their feedback.
Collaboration with Stakeholders: Working alongside other government agencies, local organizations, and community leaders to address complex issues like housing, mental health, and economic development is essential for long-term success.
I want my legacy to reflect that I fought for all residents—ensuring that their voices were heard, their needs met, and their futures secured. I hope to inspire future generations to lead with compassion, integrity, and a genuine desire to uplift others. If we continue building a Baldwin Park where every individual feels empowered and connected, that will be the lasting impact I strive for.
Land Use and Zoning Decisions: One of the most significant yet underappreciated responsibilities of the City Council is its authority over land use and zoning. The council has the power to approve or deny development projects, set zoning laws, and control how land within the city is used—whether for residential, commercial, or industrial purposes. These decisions directly shape the city’s growth, housing availability, and business environment.
Approval of City Manager and Department Heads: The City Council often plays a role in hiring or approving the appointment of the city manager and key department heads (such as police chiefs or public works directors). These individuals are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the city, making the council’s role in their selection critical to ensuring that the city runs smoothly and efficiently.
Oversight of City Budgets and Financial Management: While budget discussions are often public, many residents don’t realize how involved the City Council is in managing local finances. Beyond approving budgets, the council monitors how city funds are spent, approves financial audits, and can redirect funds to critical services like emergency response or infrastructure improvements.
Understanding of Government Processes: Prior experience can give candidates a better understanding of how government functions, from policy development and budgeting to working with staff and fellow council members. This can help them navigate complex issues more efficiently.
Relationship Building: Experience in government often provides officials with a network of contacts at various levels of government and within the community. These relationships can be invaluable when advocating for city interests or collaborating on regional projects.
Knowledge of Legal and Regulatory Frameworks: Government experience often equips individuals with a deeper understanding of local, state, and federal laws, as well as regulations that impact decision-making. This knowledge can prevent costly mistakes and ensure decisions are in compliance with the law.
However, while experience can be an asset, fresh perspectives are equally valuable. Individuals with backgrounds in business, education, community organizing, or other sectors can bring new ideas and approaches to government. Passion, integrity, and a willingness to learn and collaborate can be just as impactful as political experience.
Leadership and Decision-Making: Council members must have strong leadership abilities to guide discussions, make informed decisions, and set the direction for the city. They should be decisive yet thoughtful, considering both immediate needs and long-term impacts.
Communication and Public Engagement: Excellent communication skills are essential, as council members must convey ideas clearly to the public, listen to constituents’ concerns, and build consensus among colleagues. Being approachable and transparent helps foster trust and active civic engagement.
Budgeting and Financial Management: Understanding fiscal responsibility and the basics of public budgeting is critical. Council members oversee city budgets, ensuring funds are allocated effectively and that tax dollars are spent wisely. Knowledge of financial management helps in making informed decisions about resource allocation and investments.
Collaboration and Teamwork: Council members work closely with other elected officials, city staff, and residents. The ability to collaborate and build partnerships is vital for achieving city goals. This includes working with other governments and community organizations.
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: City Council members face a wide range of challenges, from infrastructure issues to housing and public safety concerns. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze situations from multiple angles are necessary to develop creative, effective solutions.
Local Policy Authority: City Councils have the authority to create ordinances and policies that directly affect residents. This includes regulating land use, housing, transportation, public safety, and city services. These decisions can significantly impact the community’s quality of life, making the council’s role critical to shaping the local environment.
Budget Control: The City Council oversees the city’s budget, allocating funds for essential services such as police, fire departments, public works, parks, and libraries. The ability to manage and prioritize the city’s financial resources gives the council immense power in determining the community’s priorities and ensuring financial sustainability.
Community Development and Infrastructure: Council members play a central role in planning the city’s growth and infrastructure. This includes approving development projects, enhancing public spaces, and investing in transportation systems. The City Council’s decisions in this area shape the physical layout and future economic health of the community.
Collaboration with Higher Levels of Government: While the City Council primarily focuses on local issues, it often collaborates with state and federal government agencies to implement larger policies and secure funding for city projects. This makes it an important intermediary that can advocate for the city’s needs at higher levels of government.
Public Accountability and Civic Engagement: The City Council is accountable to the public through elections and public meetings. This transparency ensures that council members must maintain the trust and confidence of their constituents, making the office a critical forum for civic participation and public input.
Problem Solving and Advocacy: City Councils have a unique capacity to identify local issues and develop tailored solutions. Whether addressing homelessness, infrastructure needs, or economic challenges, council members are the advocates who can drive specific, localized change.
Because they don’t have the guts!
UFCW Local 1428
Congresswoman Grace Napolitano
State Senator Susan Rubio
State Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio
Baldwin Park Councilwoman Alejandra Avila
Baldwin Park Councilwoman Monica Garcia
El Monte Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Julia Rueda
Azusa Councilman Jesse Avila Jr.
BPUSD School Board President Diana Miranda-Dzib
BPUSD School Board Member Christina Lucero
BPUSD School Board Member Santos Hernandez Jr.
BPUSD School Board Member Annalynn Apolinario
VCWD President Ralph Galvan
VCWD Vice President Javier Vargas
In my time on the Baldwin Park City Council, I’ve championed policies like campaign finance reform and the establishment of the Stakeholder Oversight Committee, ensuring transparency in the use of public funds, particularly for Measure BP. These reforms help prevent conflicts of interest, ensure ethical conduct, and keep officials accountable for their actions.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate Baldwin Park City Council At-large |
Personal |
Footnotes
