City of Perris
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
Perris City Council district 1
Lupe Gomez
1. In 100 words or less, why are you running for office?
I’m running for Perris City Council because I believe our city is at an important point in its growth. I want to ensure that growth improves the quality of life for the people who already call Perris home. That means responsible economic development, safe neighborhoods, strong infrastructure, support for local businesses, housing opportunities, and greater fiscal accountability. My experience in planning, business, and community service has taught me that good government requires listening, collaboration, and the willingness to ask difficult questions. I want Perris to grow into a city where residents can live, work, shop, and thrive.
2. What impact will you have on this community if you don't win this election?
My commitment to Perris has never depended on holding elected office. After my previous campaign ended, I continued serving our community, attending public meetings, advocating for residents, supporting local businesses, organizing community cleanups, and staying engaged in issues affecting our city’s future. If I don’t win, that work will continue. Public service is not a title to me. I believe residents have a responsibility to participate in their community, and I intend to continue doing exactly that regardless of the outcome of this election.
3. Tell us about a time you were convinced of a position on an issue, then learned more and changed your mind.
Early in my service on the Planning Commission, I believed that continued warehouse development was necessary because I understood it to be one of the few industries willing to make significant investments in Perris. As I became more engaged with our Chamber, business owners, environmental justice organizations, real estate professionals, and our economic development team, my perspective evolved. I learned that economic growth does not have to mean choosing between development and quality of life. It requires working harder to attract and retain a diverse mix of businesses. That experience changed my approach: I now strongly believe in responsible, balanced economic development and economic diversification.
Office Sought
Perris City Council District 3
Jessica Guzman
1. In 100 words or less, why are you running for office?
I am running because I believe Perris has the potential for a bright future, economic growth, and positive change.
As a councilwoman, I would bring my attention to detail, passion for our community, and commitment to listening to residents to help lead Perris in the right direction.
I want to be a present and accessible voice for District 3—someone who pays attention, asks the right questions, and makes decisions with the best interests of our residents and our community in mind.
2. What impact will you have on this community if you don't win this election?
Through this campaign, I’ve had the opportunity to learn more about our city, listen to residents, ask important questions, and highlight the issues that matter most to the people of Perris. I believe that encouraging residents to become more informed and engaged in local government is valuable, and that the knowledge and information I share throughout this campaign can help make a lasting difference.
3. Tell us about a time you were convinced of a position on an issue, then learned more and changed your mind.
I feel like I naturally approach situations with an open mind because I understand that everyone has different experiences, perspectives, and opinions. I don’t typically go into a conversation believing that my view is automatically the right one. I’m willing to listen, learn, and consider different perspectives before forming an opinion or making a decision.