Palacio Podcast
Joe Ganem Believes His Life Experience Will Matter to Voters
Joe Ganem had never run for elected office before his decision to tackle the Long Beach First District City Council seat. He’s helped other people’s efforts for office including being a campaign manager. His decision came after attending a candidate forum this past summer.
“Frankly, I felt like the district needed more depth, more history with people that…like myself, that I was seeing on stage.”
Candidate Joe Ganem believes he brings that depth and history to his campaign. That campaign points to a long list of experiences and accomplishments including “service as a police officer, city administrator, homebuilder and land developer, trade and environmental association executive, and governmental affairs representative at state and federal levels.” For Ganem, the experience of knowing how government works matters.
“… you’re in a better position to make decisions on the Council for the best approach for the future.’
PalacioMagazine.com interviewed Joe Ganem at his Long Beach Boulevard campaign headquarters about that experience, a list of district priorities, and his solutions for the challenges facing the First District in Long Beach.
For more information on the candidates and the special election on November 5th, visit the Long Beach City Clerk’s website HERE.
Candidate Vision Statement
“Over the past 20 years, District One has been controlled by a political machine that has kept voter turnout low and used it as an easy springboard to elect someone to higher office. Meanwhile, the District has experienced extensive problems in the lack of affordable housing, increased homelessness, pollution, and crime. My experience as a police officer, city manager, builder, environmental lobbyist, homeless commissioner, and community activist will serve the District well in resolving these issues. I will not run for higher office and only want the best for District One. Trust me to be an independent voice for you. I will appreciate your vote on November 5th. Check out our videos: https://youtu.be/SQhJD6KNPOM.”
Visit www.votejoeganem.com for more on the candidate.
Joe Ganem Biography
“Joe Ganem has more than 40 years’ experience in public service and has been a resident of Downtown Long Beach for the last 14 years. His vast resume includes service as a police officer, city administrator, homebuilder and land developer, trade and environmental association executive, and governmental affairs representative at state and federal levels. In Washington State, Joe served as an environmental lobbyist. His Washington State Bicycle Safety Act became law after others had tried and failed for many years. He orchestrated the purchase and re-purposing of 156 miles of abandoned rail corridor into urban and rural walking, equestrian and bicycle paths throughout the state.
In Long Beach, he formed a major downtown neighborhood association, Downtown Residential Council, where he served as President and remains a board member. Mayor Foster appointed him to the Homeless Services Advisory Committee and also served on the Continuum of Care Board for nearly 4 years. The Long Beach City Manager chose him to be a part of the Downtown Dining and Entertainment District Task Force where he crafted sensible solutions for entertainment venues in urban residential spaces creating an environment for successful businesses and welcoming neighbors. As a Police and Fire Department citizen volunteer, he interviewed potential new recruits to aid in bettering the talent of the city’s vital first responders.
Joe has the knowledge and background in the issues the First District face, including, affordable housing, homelessness, and public safety. This is Joe’s first run for elective office. He and his wife Marsha, proudly call Long Beach their home, have been married 42 years and have four sons and five grandchildren.”
