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Below are questions for the Branch Herald’s Voters Guide for the Nov. 4 election for Farmers Branch City Council District. 1. Candidates are listed in the order they will appear on the ballot.
Name: Lilia Martinez
Occupation: Transactions specialist at JPMorgan Chase
Education: Some College (80% credits in Accounting)
Campaign Phone: 469 995 6356
Email: liliadistrict1@gmail.com
Website: liliaforfarmersbranch.com
X (formerly known as Twitter): N/A
BlueSky: N/A
YouTube: N/A
Length of residency in the City of Farmers Branch: 2 years
Why do you want to be a Farmers Branch City Councilmember? I care deeply about the future of Farmers Branch, the city where I’ve chosen to live and raise my family. I want to help make our community safer, stronger and more connected by supporting initiatives that improve quality of life of all residents. I believe the government must be accessible and transparent, which begins with listening and open communication.
How many Farmers Branch City Council meetings have you attended or watched online in the last year? On average, I watch once or twice a month, about 18 meetings over the last year.
Outside of regularly scheduled meetings and work sessions, how many hours per month do you think a Farmers Branch Councilmember should commit to the job? I believe between 40 to 80 hours, depending on the workload. At times, it may require even more, but I’m ready to dedicate as much time as necessary to serve our community well.
Have you served on any City of Farmers Branch boards or commissions, which ones? No
What other civic responsibilities have you undertaken? What other offices have you run for? When? I had not run for office before. I have volunteered as a Boy Scout leader, Youth leader and GED teacher at the library.
What community organizations do you belong to? Currently I’m a member of my church.
What city leadership programs have you participated in? None yet
How has current Farmers Branch City Council leadership influenced your decision to run for city council? When the city councilman of my district resigned, there was a need for a candidate to step up. That influenced my decision to take the challenge and run. He was dedicated to fighting for his constituency, and I will be as well.
Name one specific new project or initiative you would like to see begun during your term. One of my top priorities is neighborhood safety. I would like to launch a neighbor safety and trust program that combines expanded neighborhood watch groups, community policing, and officers involvement.
What actions are needed to implement it?
Meet with the Police Department leadership to discuss community outreach.
Host town halls and workshops with residents to start or strengthen neighborhood watch groups.
Partner with schools, churches, and nonprofits to promote safety awareness events.
What makes you the most qualified candidate in your race – and why? I bring a voice of experience, commitment and community. I believe in the power of consistent leadership and civic responsibility. I bring decades of life experience, a background in accounting, a strong commitment to fiscal responsibility and practical solutions. Eight years ago, I became a proud U. S. citizen and since then, I have voted in every election, because I believe showing up matters. My story is one of dedication -to my family, my community and the city we call home.
I am ready to listen, to serve with integrity, transparency, and consistency to ensure Farmers Branch continues to thrive.
How successful are the city’s current programs to address its aging infrastructure? What would you change? Please elaborate. The city has done a very good job responsibly prioritizing infrastructure needs within the annual budget. The only change I would suggest is to try plan further ahead, anticipating the needs and taking preventive measures before issues become emergencies.
What is the single biggest challenge facing our city today? Balancing growth while preserving our small-town charm and character.
What are Farmers Branch’s most valuable amenities or benefits that you will work to maintain or expand? Our parks, trails, Historical Park, and the natatorium are treasures that make Farmers Branch unique. I will work to protect and maintain these amenities while exploring smart opportunities to expand them, so every resident has access to safe, high-quality spaces that enrich our community life.
