Meet the candidates for Sweetwater City Commission. Here’s what they have to say

Sweetwater residents will elect three city commissioners on Tuesday, May 13. We asked the six candidates where they stood on key issues facing the city. Here is how they responded:

Commissioner Group 1

Why are you running for office?

Mario Leiva: Did not respond.

José Martí: Did not respond.

What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?

Mario Leiva: Did not respond.

José Martí: Did not respond.

What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?

Mario Leiva: Did not respond.

José Martí: Did not respond.

Commissioner Group 3

Why are you running for office?

Teresita Blanco: Did not respond.

Ian Vallecillo: I’m running for reelection because I care deeply about this community. Sweetwater is where I’m raising my family, and it’s full of amazing, hardworking people. We’ve delivered real results —lower taxes, safer streets, better parks — and I feel a responsibility to keep working hard and continue the progress we’ve started.

What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?

Teresita Blanco: Did not respond.

Ian Vallecillo: I’m the best candidate because I have a proven track record of delivering results. I’ve lowered taxes, improved public safety, revitalized parks and secured over $12 million in grants. I know how to get things done and will continue fighting to make Sweetwater safer, stronger and more prosperous.

What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?

Teresita Blanco: Did not respond.

Ian Vallecillo: The most pressing issue facing Sweetwater is housing density and its ripple effects — overcrowded homes, limited parking, and increased strain on infrastructure and public safety. While we can’t control the housing market, we must manage the impact by investing in smart infrastructure, enforcing codes fairly and securing outside funding to ease the burden.

Commissioner Group 4

Why are you running for office?

Luis Armando Chanlatte: I am running for office due to the city’s demonstrable lack of action in safeguarding its residents.

Idania Llanio: Did not respond.

What makes you the best candidate for the position you are seeking?

Luis Armando Chanlatte: Witnessing the Lil Abner Mobile Home Park situation revealed a critical city failure to protect its most vulnerable. I grasp the profound impact of this neglect. I’m the best candidate to ensure the city upholds its duty. I’ll fight for a city where every resident feels safe and supported, prioritizing their well-being above all.

Idania Llanio: Did not respond.

What is the most pressing issue facing the community you wish to represent?

Luis Armando Chanlatte: Strict enforcement of code compliance rules, to protect neighborhoods from the negative effects of large developments, is the most pressing issue.

Idania Llanio: Did not respond.