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2024 Carson Mayor & Council Candidate Q&A
Exclusive Q&A with all Candidates for Local Office
In order to help residents decide who they would like to see represent their City, Carson Accountability & Transparency (CAT) has reached out to all candidates for mayor and city council to ask their thoughts about issues facing the City, and how they would fulfill their commitment to Carson voters.
We asked each candidate the same set of questions. The full responses from all the candidates for mayor and council are available on our website below.
Take a moment to review the responses, register to vote and cast your ballot in our City election.
Candidates for Mayor
Candidates for Council District 1
Candidates for Council District 3
Candidates for Mayor
Candidate Name:
Lula Davis-Holmes
Office Seeking:
Mayor
Occupation:
Mayor, City of Carson
1. Why are you running for public office? (200 Words or Less)
I am running for public office to build on the transformative progress we’ve made in Carson. Over the past four years, we’ve achieved notable improvements in public safety, environmental sustainability, economic development, and community well-being. As Mayor, I have focused on upgrading infrastructure, boosting fiscal reserves, and prioritizing the health and safety of our residents. This includes implementing a citywide surveillance system and advancing affordable housing for seniors and veterans. My commitment to enhancing Carson remains strong, and I intend to continue this momentum with effective leadership to ensure our city remains thriving, safe, and inclusive. With the 2028 Olympics on the horizon, Carson is poised for even greater economic opportunities, and I am dedicated to making sure all residents benefit from this growth.
2. How do you plan to make Carson a better place? (200 Words or Less)
My plan is to enhance the quality of life for all Carson residents. This includes creating job opportunities through projects such as the development of the District of South Bay Carson Country Mart and the construction of additional affordable homes. All new developments will feature a local hiring component to provide well-paying union jobs to Carson residents. We have partnered with California State University Dominguez Hills to implement internship and mentorship programs, preparing our residents for these high-paying union positions. Additionally, by collaborating with the South Bay Workforce Investment Board (SBWIB) for our annual job fair, we have attracted employers and trade representatives to educate our residents on opportunities for economic advancement.
3. Please highlight your community involvement, including any previous appointments or elected offices held, volunteer work or other leadership positions. How have these roles prepared you to lead the City of Carson? (200 words or less)
As Mayor of Carson, I leverage my extensive background in public administration, which includes 27 years with the City of Carson—starting as a park director and advancing to the role of recreation superintendent. I was first elected as Councilwoman in 2007 and became Mayor in 2020. My commitment to enhancing our community is further demonstrated through my role as a board member for the LA County Sanitation District and my efforts in establishing the Carson Global Business Academy at Carson High School to improve educational opportunities.
I am also deeply involved in community service, having founded the “It's All About Me Women's Health Conference”, now in its 10th year, and actively participating in various organizations, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority LA South Bay Alumnae Chapter, Top Ladies of Distinction (Carson Chapter), and the National Congress of Black Women. I am a member of the Carson Women’s Club, Martin Luther King Democratic Club, and previously served on the California Parks & Recreation Society. As a breast cancer survivor, I serve as an Ambassador for the American Cancer Society Relay for Life.
4. What do you think is the City’s biggest challenge? (200 words or less)
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Public Safety
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Affordable Housing
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Economic Growth
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Fiscal Accountability
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Environmental Protections
As Mayor of the City of Carson all these challenges must be met for our city to be successful.
5. What is the single most priority issue for you and why? (200 words or less)
Public safety is my top priority, as a secure community is vital for a thriving city. My administration has made significant strides in enhancing security, including the installation of high-definition cameras in all city parks and at key entrances into the city. Additionally, we've deployed high-speed trailers to monitor traffic throughout the city and have improved street infrastructure. Increased coordination with the LA County Sheriff's Department has further bolstered safety. Through collaborative efforts with residents, we have achieved substantial safety improvements.
6. What does Transparency mean to you, and how will you ensure Carson’s city government is accountable to its residents? (100 Words or Less)
Transparency means maintaining open and honest communication with Carson residents. It involves ensuring everyone has access to the information and resources needed to engage with local government effectively. I am dedicated to holding town hall meetings, providing easy access to public records, and keeping an open-door policy to ensure residents feel heard. Additionally, I will advocate for financial transparency by making city budgets and spending clear and accessible, reflecting the community’s priorities. Accountability is essential to a healthy democracy and remains central to my approach to leadership.
7. What is your vision and plan for development in the City of Carson for both commercial and housing development? (200 Words or Less)
My vision for Carson’s development emphasizes balanced growth that benefits everyone. We will prioritize affordable housing for working families, seniors, veterans, and young adults while protecting existing communities such as mobile-home parks (Enacted Mobile Home Park Overlay District). Our economic development strategy focuses on attracting high-quality businesses to create new jobs and services. We’ve already made significant progress with new restaurants, grocery stores, and the Marriott TownePlace Suites Hotel, which will accommodate visitors for the 2028 Olympics. Additionally, we aim to enhance commercial opportunities by redeveloping underutilized spaces and supporting small businesses through grants and programs like the Small Business Growth Academy. This approach will ensure Carson remains a vibrant, inclusive community where residents can thrive.
8. What excites you about the City of Carson? (100 Words or Less)
I’m excited about Carson’s future and the boundless opportunities ahead. We’ve evolved from a bedroom residential industrial community into a thriving, diverse city with quality education, recreation, and economic prospects. With the 2028 Olympics approaching and Carson as a host city, our community will gain global recognition. Our progress in public safety, infrastructure, and sustainability fuels my optimism. Carson’s motto is “Future Unlimited”, and I look forward to collaborating with residents to build that limitless future.
Candidates for Mayor
Candidate Name:
Jim Dear
Office Seeking:
Mayor of Carson
Occupation:
Councilmember/Teacher
1. Why are you running for public office? (200 Words or Less)
My dedication to public service is well known in Carson. I grew up in a household with my father, a veteran of the US Marine Corps and a union president. My mother was a public-school teacher and an active union member. Public service was considered a noble endeavor for my family. The idea of the love for my country, my community and my family is part of who I am. My career as an educator and true public servant led me to run for political office because I knew that I could make positive change in the life of others.
2. How do you plan to make Carson a better place? (200 Words or Less)
I have a well thought out economic development strategy and public safety plan. For Carson’s future to live up to the motto of “Future Unlimited” we must have vision. In the resent past some of our leaders lacked that vision that I have. To be a successful leader of a city, as great as Carson is, the leaders must have great forethoughts. Another key to improving the quality of life of our Carson residents is for our city leaders to return to the transparency, accountability and integrity that I brought forth during my service as Carson Mayor. In addition, public safety and the security of our residents must be guaranteed.
3. Please highlight your community involvement, including any previous appointments or elected offices held, volunteer work or other leadership positions. How have these roles prepared you to lead the City of Carson? (200 words or less)
My volunteer work is extensive, I have a lifetime of service to the community. Besides being an educator, I also worked as a government employee in the office of Congressman Glenn Anderson, Assemblywoman Juanita McDonald, and State Senator Ralph Dills. I also held the position of director of a nonprofit organization known as Citizen Action League. I ‘ve had roles such as Carson Community Watch Block captain, Carson Homeowners Association officer, president of Carson’s Friends of the Library, president of a Lions Club in Carson, served as city commissioner, city clerk, city councilman, mayor. A variety of experiences helped me be well rounded and knowledgeable about how municipal government should work to serve the residents.
4. What do you think is the City’s biggest challenge? (200 words or less)
The biggest challenge is the current lack of transparency and accountability. Often some of our leaders do not follow the law, the city’s own policies, rules of de quorum, parliamentary procedures, ethical behavior and the best practices of municipal government. Another challenge is the lack of vision for the future, a lack of fairness in allocating funds and a lack of ethical intent. Much of our time, energy and resources goes into the self-serving programs of certain council members. It is time for a change this November 5th because of the reasons I stated. It is not fair to our residents to give lift service to transparency and not be transparent. It is not fair to our residents to talk about accountability and not be accountable. The actions of some of our leaders do not match their words. That is the greatest challenge currently facing our city.
5. What is the single most priority issue for you and why? (200 words or less)
Public safety has been my number one concern since first being elected to office 23 years ago. Without public safety and security all the good things that the city can do will be difficult to sustain. I am the only candidate that has been endorsed by two of the most important public safety organizations in Carson. The Los Angeles County Firefighters (IAFF 1014), and the men and women of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Association of Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs (ALADS). No other candidate for mayor prioritizes public safety as much as I do.
6. What does Transparency mean to you, and how will you ensure Carson’s city government is accountable to its residents? (100 Words or Less)
Transparency means being open and honest with the residents in the manner that I have my entire career. You will find that I am the elected official in the dais and in the community that asks the most questions. The people’s right to know must be protected and encouraged. Politicians’ hidden agenda interferes with healthy government. That is why I am running for Mayor in Carson to bring back transparency.
7. What is your vision and plan for development in the City of Carson for both commercial and housing development? (200 Words or Less)
I have supported and I continue to support retail development to bring jobs to Carson residents, convenience to the people of Carson and the much-needed revenue to our taxpayers. With my economic development strategy, the types of businesses we would have will complement other developments. Instead of having a hodge pudge of projects that are simply the favorites of various elected officials, what we should have is a coordinated plan of development. That is what I bring to the table. It is well known that I launched the effort to transform Carson into a destination community. The reason we had high quality development in Carson while I was the mayor was because we followed my economic development plan.
A healthy city has a variety of housing. Certainly, affordable housing has a place in Carson along with high quality market rate housing developments. We want Carson to be attractive for new home buyers as well as renters
8. What excites you about the City of Carson? (100 Words or Less)
Carson is in an excellent position to be a highly desired place to live, work, play and pray. The potential for our city is exciting. It is up to us to be united and inclusionary in our work to advance our city. We have come a long way from being an unincorporated territory of Los Angeles County. We cannot rest on our laurels, we must aim for a wonderful city that enhances the quality of life for our youth, senior citizens and all the people of Carson. I am very excited to be part of the future that we all can be proud of.
Candidates for Council District 1
Candidate Name:
Jawane Hilton
Office Seeking:
Carson Council member District 1
Occupation:
Pastor/Realtor
1. Why are you running for public office? (200 Words or Less)
I am running for public office because I am deeply committed to serving my community and ensuring that the City of Carson continues to grow and thrive. As Mayor Pro Tem and someone who has lived and worked in this city my entire life, I have a passion for improving the quality of life for all residents. I believe in fostering economic growth, ensuring public safety, and enhancing city services while creating opportunities for future generations. My goal is to continue advocating for transparency, accountability, and equity, addressing the needs of the most vulnerable while driving positive change across all areas of our community. I want to build on the progress we've made, such as our significant budget surplus and infrastructure improvements, while keeping Carson a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving place to live and work.
2. How do you plan to make Carson a better place? (200 Words or Less)
I plan to make Carson a better place by focusing on four key areas: economic growth, public safety, housing, and community engagement. First, I will work to attract new businesses, support small business owners, and create job opportunities that will strengthen our local economy. Second, I will enhance public safety by collaborating with law enforcement, investing in youth programs, and addressing issues like homelessness and mental health to ensure a safer environment for all.
In housing, I will advocate for affordable and inclusive housing developments that meet the needs of families, seniors, and first-time homeowners while preserving the character of our neighborhoods. Lastly, I will increase community engagement by ensuring transparency in government decisions, expanding access to city services, and creating more opportunities for residents to get involved in shaping Carson’s future.
By focusing on these priorities, I will build on the progress we’ve made and ensure that Carson continues to grow as a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving city where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
3. Please highlight your community involvement, including any previous appointments or elected offices held, volunteer work or other leadership positions. How have these roles prepared you to lead the City of Carson? (200 words or less)
I currently serve as Mayor Pro Tem of Carson and have previously held a seat on the City Council, where I helped implement a $34 million street repaving program and achieve a significant budget surplus. I have championed equity and justice. My faith leadership as a pastor has allowed me to support and guide our community spiritually, while co-founding a school has deepened my commitment to youth and education.
In addition to public service, I have been an active volunteer, supporting local non-profits, mentoring youth, and organizing community events. These roles have strengthened my ability to connect with residents, address their concerns, and bring people together for the common good. My leadership experience across various sectors has prepared me to navigate complex challenges and deliver real solutions for Carson's future.
4. What do you think is the City’s biggest challenge? (200 words or less)
Carson's biggest challenge is balancing growth and development with maintaining affordability and quality of life for its residents. As we attract new businesses and housing developments, we must ensure that long-term residents are not displaced and that the city remains affordable for all income levels. Additionally, we face infrastructure strain, with aging roads and public services that need modernization to support a growing population. Public safety and homelessness are also pressing concerns, as we work to reduce crime and provide sustainable solutions for those in need. Addressing these challenges requires a careful, balanced approach that prioritizes economic development while protecting the interests of our community and ensuring that no one is left behind.
5. What is the single most priority issue for you and why? (200 words or less)
My top priority is addressing the food desert in North Carson. Access to fresh, affordable, and healthy food is a fundamental need, yet many residents in this area face limited options. The absence of grocery stores not only impacts health but also the overall well-being and economic development of the community. I am committed to working with local businesses, investors, and community leaders to attract grocery stores and fresh food markets to North Carson. Additionally, I will advocate for mobile food pantries, urban farming initiatives, and partnerships with local farmers to provide immediate relief. Solving this issue is crucial because it directly affects residents’ quality of life, health outcomes, and economic mobility. Ensuring everyone has access to healthy food will strengthen our community and foster long-term growth.
6. What does Transparency mean to you, and how will you ensure Carson’s city government is accountable to its residents? (100 Words or Less)
Transparency means open communication, honesty, and accountability in every decision made. To ensure Carson's government is accountable to its residents, I will prioritize clear updates on city projects, budgets, and policies through public meetings, newsletters, and online platforms. Additionally, I will use social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to provide real-time updates and engage with residents where they are most active. Encouraging community involvement and creating opportunities for residents to voice their concerns will foster trust and ensure they are informed and confident in their local government’s actions and decisions.
7. What is your vision and plan for development in the City of Carson for both commercial and housing development? (200 Words or Less)
My vision for District 1 is to foster responsible and balanced development that benefits both residents and businesses. With the most development happening in this area, I plan to prioritize smart growth by encouraging mixed-use developments that integrate housing, retail, and community spaces. This approach will provide affordable housing options while boosting economic opportunities for small businesses.
For housing, I am committed to creating inclusive neighborhoods with affordable units for families, seniors, and first-time homeowners. At the same time, I will ensure that new developments include green spaces, quality infrastructure, and access to public transportation to enhance quality of life.
Commercially, I will work to attract a diverse range of businesses, from tech startups to retail and restaurants, to create jobs and stimulate the local economy. I also aim to support local entrepreneurs and small businesses by reducing red tape and offering incentives for them to thrive. By prioritizing thoughtful development that balances growth with sustainability, we can build a vibrant and inclusive District 1 that meets the needs of both current and future residents.
8. What excites you about the City of Carson? (100 Words or Less)
My vision for District 1 is to foster responsible and balanced development that benefits both residents and businesses. With the most development happening in this area, I plan to prioritize smart growth by encouraging mixed-use developments that integrate housing, retail, and community spaces. This approach will provide affordable housing options while boosting economic opportunities for small businesses.
For housing, I am committed to creating inclusive neighborhoods with affordable units for families, seniors, and first-time homeowners. At the same time, I will ensure that new developments include green spaces, quality infrastructure, and access to public transportation to enhance quality of life.
Commercially, I will work to attract a diverse range of businesses, from tech startups to retail and restaurants, to create jobs and stimulate the local economy. I also aim to support local entrepreneurs and small businesses by reducing red tape and offering incentives for them to thrive. By prioritizing thoughtful development that balances growth with sustainability, we can build a vibrant and inclusive District 1 that meets the needs of both current and future residents..
Candidates for Council District 3
Candidate Name:
Cedric L. Hicks Sr.
Office Seeking:
Council Member District 3
Occupation:
Council Member District 3
1. Why are you running for public office? (200 Words or Less)
Serving you as your councilman for the past 8 years has been my honor. During this time, Carson has made tremendous strides in improving the quality of life for our residents. We've paved every street, expanded and enhanced our parks, and developed homeownership opportunities while making our communities safer and more prosperous. I’m running for City Council to build on this momentum and continue driving positive change.
As a 25-year resident, former Parks and Recreation Director, and Assistant City Manager, I’ve applied my experience to better our city. We've developed new housing for seniors and veterans, opened new grocery stores, and welcomed restaurants. The safety and well-being of my family motivate me daily to protect Carson's quality of life.
My educational background—a Bachelor’s Degree from Cal State Fullerton, a Master’s from Cal State Dominguez Hills, and an MBA from UCLA—has empowered me to lead initiatives like the District Overlay to protect mobile-home parks, expand healthcare services, and implement environmental protections. With the 2028 Olympics approaching, I see opportunities for job creation, increased property values, and greater economic growth for Carson.
2. How do you plan to make Carson a better place? (200 Words or Less)
I will continue leveraging my 40 years of public policy and management experience to secure federal and state resources, ensuring Carson's prosperity and safety. Over the years, I’ve built strong relationships with elected leaders at all levels of government, and together, we've driven progress.
Since 2016, I have championed environmental issues, addressing the challenges posed by oil companies and other industries. Key achievements include prohibiting fracking within city limits, installing AQMD’s fence-line monitoring system, transitioning the city fleet to electric vehicles, using electric-powered tools for Public Works, installing solar panels at Carson Event Center, and adding 20 fast-charging EV stations at the Center.
My commitment to making Carson a cleaner, greener city continues with future plans to transition our commercial industry to renewable energy and expand the use of reclaimed water in public spaces. I seek re-election to carry on this work and further enhance Carson's environmental health.
3. Please highlight your community involvement, including any previous appointments or elected offices held, volunteer work or other leadership positions. How have these roles prepared you to lead the City of Carson? (200 words or less)
My community involvement has equipped me with the leadership skills and insight necessary to guide Carson toward continued growth and prosperity. As past Chair of the SouthBay Cities Council of Governments (SBCCOG), I worked with 16 cities and the County of Los Angeles to improve quality of life across the South Bay region. I also serve on the boards of Contract Cities, National League of Cities, and Clean Power Alliance, among others.
Additionally, I am proud to be involved with Cal State University Dominguez Hills’ Center for Innovation in STEM Education (CISE) and the Kiwanis Club of Carson, where we focus on youth and community development. These roles have prepared me to lead the City of Carson with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth.
4. What do you think is the City’s biggest challenge? (200 words or less)
Affordable housing for young and middle-income residents is Carson’s most pressing challenge. Like many surrounding cities, we struggle to provide sufficient housing options for a growing population. My commitment to creating affordable housing remains steadfast, and I will spearhead the formation of a public-private Workforce Housing Committee to develop actionable solutions.
We must focus on maintaining housing affordability while also ensuring that new developments support our residents' needs. Addressing this challenge will allow Carson to thrive as a place where all residents can build their futures.
5. What is the single most priority issue for you and why? (200 words or less)
My top priority is ensuring safer streets for every woman, man, and child in Carson. Through the installation of surveillance cameras at major intersections, we've already made significant strides in assisting law enforcement with monitoring high-risk areas. These cameras are a powerful tool in combating street takeovers, traffic violations, and pedestrian accidents. Street take overs and pedestrian hit and runs must stop.
I am committed to expanding this system to provide even greater coverage throughout the city. The goal is clear: a safer Carson for all, where law enforcement can proactively address issues before they escalate.
6. What does Transparency mean to you, and how will you ensure Carson’s city government is accountable to its residents? (100 Words or Less)
Transparency is everything. It is the foundation of a functioning democracy and enables our residents to participate actively in the governance of their city. I have maintained an open-door policy throughout my tenure, conducting quarterly town hall meetings to seek input from residents on key issues.
I will continue to foster open communication, ensuring that our decision-making processes are transparent and accountable to the people of Carson. By encouraging written and verbal dialogue, I will uphold our city's commitment to integrity and accessibility.
7. What is your vision and plan for development in the City of Carson for both commercial and housing development? (200 Words or Less)
We are actively implementing a collective vision to increase workforce housing and attract quality businesses to Carson. However, it is essential that any new developments put residents first, mitigating any potential negative impact.
My vision for Carson includes creating housing options for residents across all socio-economic levels. I am committed to forming a public-private Workforce Housing Committee to develop a comprehensive plan to address these needs. Additionally, I will work to bring a quality grocery store to the north and east sides of Carson, ensuring equal access to fresh food for all residents.
8. What excites you about the City of Carson? (100 Words or Less)
What excites me about Carson is the bright future we are building for the next generation. We are transforming from a residential and industrial area into a thriving, dynamic metropolis. From higher education opportunities at Cal State Dominguez Hills to entertainment at the Porsche Experience, Carson is becoming a destination city.
The upcoming 2028 Olympics, Carson will serve as a host city, is a testament to our progress. It places Carson on the global stage and opens new opportunities for growth, development, and prosperity. Truly, Carson's future is unlimited, and I am excited to be part of it.
Candidates for Council District 3
Candidate Name:
Daniel Valdez
Office Seeking:
Carson City Council District 3
Occupation:
Wilmington Community Clinic, Board Member
1. Why are you running for public office? (200 Words or Less)
To make Carson a safer city to live in. Report any corruption or any policies from city council members or members that are not good for the people of Carson and report to the Newspapers.
2. How do you plan to make Carson a better place? (200 Words or Less)
As a Council member, I will start an organization like the Carson Initiative for Substance Abuse Awareness and Prevention. I work with several organizations that oppose violence and these advocates are ready to step into Carson. They have lost their own loved
ones themselves and don't want anyone to go through what they have.
3. Please highlight your community involvement, including any previous appointments or elected offices held, volunteer work or other leadership positions. How have these roles prepared you to lead the City of Carson? (200 words or less)
Former Carson Public Works, and Planning Commissioner, Serving on the Carson Mobile Home Park Rental Review Board.
Co-Founder Carson Initiative For Substance Abuse Awareness And Prevention,
Volunteer for Justice For Murder Children, Justice For Homicide Victims, Drug Abuse Resistance Education, Safety First Act Now, Heavenly Culture World Peace Restoration of Light The International Peace Youth Group, Gardenia Valley Democratic Club, Martin Luther
King Democratic Club, Progressive Democratic Club, Carson Alliance 4 Truth, Community Emergency Response Team, Carson Literacy Partnership Program, Coalition For A Safe Environment, Carson Women Club, Filipino Community Carson, Dominguez Area Property Home
Owner’s Association, Former Cuffed and Wanted Board Member.
Former Gardenia Mexican American Democratic Club, and Carson Lions Club member
I find it a great honor for my previous appointed, and current positions, and the volunteer work I have done. Having accomplished this makes me humble and seeing the needs for others. I will bring the founders of the organization to Carson to make Carson a
safer city!