Accomplishments
Putting residents first means delivering real results—not just promises. Here’s what Jose has worked on to protect health, improve safety, and expand opportunity in National City.
Short-Term Rentals Ordinance
Jose advanced work to regulate short-term rentals to protect neighborhoods and reduce illegal activity tied to certain properties. The policy direction focused on permits, accountability, and enforceable rules.
Homeownership Development
Jose pushed forward efforts to expand homeownership opportunities in National City, including community-facing steps like workshops and early planning to help residents navigate pathways to ownership.
National City Legal Defense Fund
Jose helped launch work on a city program intended to provide legal support for National City residents facing deportation, with the goal of improving access to representation and keeping families together.
Human Trafficking Response
Jose elevated human trafficking prevention and enforcement as a city priority, including linking housing/short-term rental regulation to public safety concerns around trafficking and exploitation.
Immigration
Jose supported residents’ right to peacefully assemble and speak out, while highlighting the fear many immigrant families feel and reinforcing the importance of community voice and safety.
Budget & City Services
During budget discussions, Jose emphasized maintaining essential city services and supporting staff while the city faced a major deficit and considered the role of reserves.
Rent Control
Jose supported continued exploration of stronger renter protections as residents and community groups pushed for rent stabilization beyond the state baseline.
Fuel Transfer Station
Jose was part of the City’s response to a proposed fuel transfer station near homes and schools. The proposal faced strong community opposition and was ultimately voted down by City Council.
Streetlights Survey
Jose’s office conducted a district-level streetlight survey to document outages and push for repairs—focused on basic neighborhood safety and walkability.
Tobacco Retail License
National City advanced enforcement of its tobacco retail licensing program, including a license cap of 54 and compliance checks aimed at reducing youth access—especially near schools.
Adopt-a-Tree Campaigns
Jose partnered with Tree San Diego for recurring spring/fall efforts that include tree distributions, adopt-a-tree signups, planting events, and follow-up care instructions—expanding shade and improving neighborhood conditions over time.