LaDonna Jempson Seeks Dist. 5 Seat in Event of Recall

LaDonna Jempson is running for the District 5 city council seat if its current representative Victoria Baca is recalled this November. The 29-year resident’s decision to run for office was her “love for Moreno Valley and being able to see that we are at a turning point in which we can move in the right direction with the proper leadership in place. I am that leader,” Jempson said. A human resources manager of 22 years, Jempson said she if elected she wants to see town hall meetings both “by phone and in person,” “better paying jobs,” and more “grant writing opportunities to supplement our general fund.” Jempson said another concern is the water in the Edgemont area. “These residents have cloudy water coming from their sinks and showers. Something’s got to give,” Jempson said. She claimed rusty infrastructure could be a concern if improvements to the area are made, but said tackling the issue is a priority. Jempson said, “I know it’s going to cost a lot of money, but I think with joint efforts between the water districts and other interested parties in the area it can be fixed.” Jempson supports having a voter-elected mayor, but said the measure proposing a voter-elected mayor, breaking the city into four districts instead of five, and placing a 3 term (12 year) limit on city council members with allowances for gap years before re-election doesn’t accurately reflect residents’ wishes. “We need to look at the people, because the people put (leaders) in and the people can take them out,” Jempson said. Jempson said she wants to continue the citywide camera system, business roundtables and spotlights, and emphasis on neighborhood watch programs. “We all want economic growth… but just as important (is) bringing back a sense of pride in our city,” Jempson said. If elected, Jempson said she will be “a person chosen by the residents of Moreno Valley with heart and knowledge, one who they trust and can depend on to get the work done.” In the event of a recall, Jempson will vie for the seat against candidate Donovan Saadiq.