City of Hemet
The Southwest Riverside County Biz PAC sent every candidate the following candidate questionnaire. The intent was to cover as many business issues as possible to get to know the candidate better. We recognize that some response choices may not fully reflect the candidate’s position, but we acknowledged that and asked them to submit the option that most closely reflects their view.
Meet the Candidates
Office Sought
Hemet City Council District 5
James Welker
1. In 100 words or less, why are you running for office?
I am running because Hemet residents and business owners deserve safe neighborhoods, clean streets, reliable infrastructure, responsible spending, and a councilmember who listens. After 26 years in public safety, I know community safety is the foundation of a strong local economy and good quality of life. I want to encourage responsible homebuilding that supports new retail, strengthens existing businesses, and generates revenue for essential city services. Hemet needs both entry level opportunities and lasting careers. I am prepared to ask difficult questions, make responsible decisions, and put Hemet residents first.
2. What impact will you have on this community if you don't win this election?
My commitment to Hemet does not depend on holding office. I would love the opportunity to help move Hemet in the right direction as a councilmember, but if I do not win, I will continue highlighting local businesses, listening to residents, volunteering at community events, and serving wherever I can. I will also continue showing up and doing my part on the Mobile Home Rent Review Commission.
My business visits have shown me how much our small businesses benefit when residents learn about the people behind them. Honestly, meeting everyone has been a blast. Running for office has broadened my understanding of Hemet and introduced me to residents, organizations, and businesses that I look forward to supporting and working with long after this election.
3. Tell us about a time you were convinced of a position on an issue, then learned more and changed your mind.
Initially, I had concerns about Measure Q because it affects what residents pay on certain purchases. However, as I researched the measure, listened to residents’ concerns, and met with community organizations, I came to understand that Hemet currently needs this revenue to support public safety and other essential services. I now support Measure Q, but I also believe the City must be transparent about how the money is spent and maintain meaningful civilian oversight. This experience reinforced the importance of gathering all the facts, listening to different perspectives, and approaching difficult decisions with an open mind. Transparency and communication from the City is especially important on issues like this.
Office Sought
Hemet City Council District 5
James "Jimmy" Depasse
1. In 100 words or less, why are you running for office?
We have had many years of bad leadership that have pushed us into the mess we have now. I have tried to serve our community while raising a family. In the early 1990's I served as a Hemet Police Officer, I have sat on the Community Pantry Board helping our less fortunate senior neighbors. I worked with Mt. San Jacinto College as an advisor to the Automotive Service Council and successfully owned and operated my Automotive Business for the last 31 years.
2. What impact will you have on this community if you don't win this election?
I will go on with life and continue to live in Hemet. I will continue to support my community where I live and work and will some day die.
3. Tell us about a time you were convinced of a position on an issue, then learned more and changed your mind.
In the early 1990's I had the opportunity to travel to Japan with Team USA Drag Racing. While I was traveling there I made use of the Bullet Train and it made travel easy. Therefore when I returned home I voted for the California High Speed Rail thinking it would do the same. Instead it went nowhere and cost the taxpayers their hard earned tax dollars.