Candidate for
Council Member; City of Bell Gardens

About Javier Sanchez

Javier Sanchez has been a life-long resident of Bell Gardens, living here since he was 7 years old. A product of our community, he attended Suva Elementary and Suva Intermediate, and graduated from Bell Gardens High School. Growing up in the city as part of a large family, Javier saw first-hand how limited opportunities for youth could be destructive to a community. Able to take advantage of local sports and recreational programs, Javier avoided the pitfalls of juvenile crime and gangs. His coaches and teachers taught him the value of community activism and involvement that continues to influence him to this day.

After three and a half years studying business administration and business law at Rio Hondo College, Javier brought that experience back to the community, becoming a manager at a local business and getting involved in city improvement projects. In 2008, he fought alongside the East Yard Communities for Environmental Justice Association at the Air Quality Control Center in Diamond Bar and blocked a proposed paint-burning furnace plant scheduled to be built 300 yards away from Bell Gardens High School. The plant would have posed environmental hazards and caused severe health problems for residents and students. Additionally, as Vice Chairman of the Planning Commission, he was instrumental in acquiring the very productive Ross and Marshalls Shopping Center.

For years, Javier has voiced his opinion in favor of youth and small business programs in City Hall meetings. With his wife, he is raising two children in Bell Gardens and understands the importance of improving the lives of those growing up in our city. He has been a community leader for more than 20 years, serving as Vice Chairman of the City Planning Commission, coaching youth basketball and football teams for 16 years, and aggressively defending our rights as a community activist. His continued involvement with the community as well as his tireless efforts on behalf of our youth makes him an ideal candidate for Bell Gardens city council.