Reading City Councilman Jaime Baez Jr. has announced his candidacy for City Council president.
A first-term councilman, Baez, 35, currently represents council District 2.
Councilman Jaime Baez Jr. has announced his candidacy for council president.
Courtesy of Jaime Baez Jr.
He will enter the May 20 primary on the Democratic ticket. The seat is elected at-large.
Baez said he is running on the principles of transparency, communication and unity.
“That’s how people build trust in their government,” he said, “by elected officials being open and transparent.”
When he speaks of unity, he is referring to city residents and government working together to enhance the quality of life for all, Baez said, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and inclusivity in building a stronger community.
“Not only does everyone have a seat at the table, but everyone is invited to have a seat at the table,” he said.
During his first term in office, Baez said, he hosted two community meetings where he was able to exchange ideas with constituents, answer residents’ questions and learn about their needs.
Baez, who works as a constituent service adviser for state Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz, grew up in Lancaster and Reading.
His interest in local government grew from his longtime commitment to community service, beginning with leading and taking part in neighborhood cleanups in both cities.
In his first year as a councilman, he participated in impactful decisions, Baez said, such as the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act funds to support critical initiatives, including community revitalization, public safety and infrastructure improvements.
“We’ve also worked to improve public parks and city properties, ensuring these spaces are safe, accessible and able to be enjoyable for everyone,” he said.
Baez said he introduced an ordinance that would raise the minimum wage for city workers and cosponsored an ordinance introduced by Councilwoman Melissa Ventura that would regulate so-called ghost guns, untraceable firearms that are purchased either as a kit or separate pieces and put together.
He also spearheaded and supported public events, such as the Party at the Park and Trunk or Treat events in Pendora Park, and back-to-school, Thanksgiving and Christmas giveaways. These events drew hundreds of residents and fostered collaboration among local nonprofits and businesses to uplift residents, he said.
A campaign launch is planned for 4 p.m., Feb. 18 in the lobby of 600 Penn St.
Baez said he will share his vision for the city’s future and plans to unite the community, advocate for essential resources and bring meaningful change to Reading.
Meet the candidate
Candidate: Jaime Baez Jr., 35, Reading
Position sought: Reading City Council president.
Website: jaimeforthepeople.org
Background: Baez currently represents council District 2. He works as a constituent service adviser for state Rep. Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz.
Term: Four years.
Compensation: The council president is paid an annual salary of $6,875.