Q&A: Maria Cadenas, Santa Cruz City Council Candidate

SANTA CRUZ, CA — Santa Cruz City Council candidate Maria Cadenas makes her case to voters ahead of the November election in a Q&A with Patch:

Age (as of Election Day)

42

Town/City of Residence

Santa Cruz

Office Sought

Municipal office

Family

Daughter, 11

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education

Masters in Business Administration, Alverno College, BA, Business Administration and Creative Writing, Beloit College (Double Major, Magna Cum Laude)

Occupation

Executive Director, Nonprofit 20+ years

Campaign website

www.votemaria2020.org

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Secretary, Podiatric Medical Board of California

The single most pressing issue facing our (state, district, community, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

An equitable recovery and housing affordability. We need to look at local capital vehicles to support our local small business development as well as support affordable housing development.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I am a problem solver and doer. I get things done by focusing on what matters most – people and planet.

For over 20 years, I have developed practical solutions that improve people’s lives. I have worked with governments, corporations, nonprofits, and policy makers across the world, U.S., California, and in our region. I envision a Santa Cruz with thriving locally owned businesses, affordable housing, living wage jobs, and strong public transit. I will work regionally and with the State and Federal governments to bring resources to our city.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have raised $2.7 million in COVID-19 relief aid in four months, established Santa Cruz SEEDS to provide newborns with college savings accounts, provided technical assistance to entrepreneurs, worked to increase affordable housing, created internship programs for youth of color, and launched a housing program for children aging out of foster care.

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success?

I look for us to address our budgetary challenges thoughtfully and focused around equity, while taking steps to build affordable housing and work towards a #SantaCruz4All

Why should voters trust you?

I have dedicated my career to service and working with community members. I believe in transparency and open communication. To undertake these unprecedented times and face the changes ahead we must build and rely on each other.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the use of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

We must have a balance approach and ensure that our budget reflect our values.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?

The best advice ever shared with me was ...

Be yourself

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I will ensure that the diverse lived experiences of our residents inform city decisions. As a single mom, Executive Director of Santa Cruz Community Ventures, a Latina, and a proud resident of Santa Cruz for almost ten years, this is personal to me.