Luis Chavez has won the Fresno City Council District 5 seat, according to the Fresno County Registrar of Voters.
On election night, a few dozen of his friends and community leaders gathered at his house to support his campaign.
Chavez said if he were elected, he will focus on listening to the concerns of the residents of District 5.
“We want to make sure to be responsive to the constituents of District 5, I love one on one interaction, that’s where you get the best ideas from the community.” Chavez said, “Those ideas are what makes them better.”
Chavez was chief of staff to Fresno City Council Member Sal Quintero, who has been elected to the Fresno County Board of Supervisors. Chavez is running to complete Quintero’s term as District 5’s representative.
Chavez is also on the Fresno School District Board. He said one of his top priorities is to improve education.
“One of the things that I have focused on has been education, my goal is to bring a college campus to south east Fresno, that’s at the top of my priorities.” Chavez said.
Central Unified School District Board Member Rama Dawar is supporting Chavez because of his education policies.
“We need more schools and we need more teachers. And on top of that, we need vocational education for our students. I am very passionate about this, and I think he (Chavez) is too,” Dawar said.
Dawar said more students should involve themselves with local elections. He said Chavez is the best choice for students.
“Students need to think about our country’s future, our city’s future and our local future. Chavez is honest and wants the best, so students should support him.” Dawar said.
Council President Paul Caprioglio said Chavez is an excellent candidate.
“He’s reasonable, logical, he has the greater good for Fresno in mind. He’s got the skill set, the drive and the energy.” Caprioglio said.
Late Tuesday night, Chavez received news that he received 58 percent of the vote with 94 percent of District 5’s precincts counted. Chavez and his guests cheered, laughed and embraced one another. Chavez said if he were elected, he will continue the hard work he started at the beginning of his career.
“I’m ready to work. I want to represent the folks that voted for me, and those that didn’t vote for me. I’m going to keep doing what I’m doing, going to every single neighborhood, listening to what their needs and concerns are.” Chavez said, “I feel like it’s my duty to be the eyes and ears of this district.”