FOR ALL
OF US
About the Candidate
My name is George Conzuelo...
Hello, Neighbor! I'm a 24 year old grassroots organizer living in Lakewood. I became civically engaged when I was a sophomore in high school, now nearly a decade of experience under my belt now. I've served on various boards and commissions, worked in cities/towns across our county, and believe in the strength of a united community. I graduated from the University of Washington this winter and currently work two jobs in the field of social work. I don't run this campaign alone, below you will find more information on my wonderful Campaign Team!
What is Charter Review?
Every 10 years, elected officials take a fresh look at the county charter – essentially the county constitution – and review the rules and regulations we have here in Pierce County. The goal of this process is to review the existing rules and regulations in the county and discuss any possible revisions to the charter. Once a majority of the 21 elected Charter Review Commissioners agree on an amendment, the Pierce County City Council holds a vote on whether or not the changes will be ratified. If, however, the City Council cannot reach a consensus on the matter, the Charter Review Commission's proposed amendments will end up on the ballot in November and will be determined by the voting public.
Charter Priorities
Below are the three pillars I have built my campaign on, supported by the experiences I have gained on a personal, work, or an advocate level. These teachings have helped me grow and better understand my community on a deeper level in Pierce County as many of these groups may not feel enveloped in conversations that impact them. I want Pierce County to be home to all, thus all residents both seen and possibly hidden deserve to be part of the narrative. My goal is to work with folks where they're at, though that in of itself may require us to take a bigger step in trying to reach them.
Youth & Young Adult
Population
– Review Article 3: Section 3 – (Appointments)
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Add Youth/young adult specific language to ensure Current representation efforts are upheld.
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Expand the number of seats allocated to Youth/Young Adults on boards/commissions, from 1 to 3.
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Add a Section to establish the first pierce county youth commission.
These expansions will allow improvements to the current civic opportunity in advising council through boards & commissions. It brings a more well-rounded approach to the youth perspective so it isn't drowned out in decision making processes. There are current efforts from the county Executive with a pilot program to incentivize youth to increase participation. Additionally, establishing a county wide youth commission would seek to bridge the gap with youth in rural communities, unincorporated pierce county, or smaller towns/cities that may have a more difficult time establishing a youth commission of their own. Currently both Tacoma and Lakewood have youth commissions.
I've been a long-term advocate for youth civic participation. It began in high school serving on a variety of boards and commissions, a commitment that followed me into adulthood. I'm now in a position to make space for today's youth and expand opportunities to those that may not have them. I currently serve on the HearMeWA Youth Advisory Group, a youth mental health hotline by the AGO's Office, where we evaluate and improve the program. Additionally I am proud of my efforts with my Campaign Team to help fellow youth grow and amplify their voices in the political sphere. Civically engaged youth should be the expectation, not the exception.
Immigrant & Refugee
Communities
– Review Article 9: New Section –
(“Welcoming” County)
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Add a section to establish pierce county as a “welcoming” county to all.
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This will include an immigrant & refugee policy; also a homelessness policy. Ensures support to folks too often overlooked.
This new section was inspired by the Veteran's Policy currently found in Article 9: Section 9.35. It ensures that the Pierce County Council will establish a specific policy for Immigrants & Refugees. The hope is to have this policy be a protection to this population, but it is up to each iteration of the council to uphold or amend the policy. The current council is supportive of our immigrant & Refugee population, understanding their positive impact and place in our county. Supporting Proclamations such as Welcoming Week uphold council's commitment to this effort. This policy would help cement the current progress we have achieved.
Neighbors At-Risk/Experiencing Homelessness
– Review Article 9: New Section –
(“Welcoming” County)
-
Add a section to establish pierce county as a “welcoming” county to all.
-
This will include a homelessness policy; also an immigrant & refugee policy. Ensures support to folks too often overlooked.
This new section was inspired by the Veteran's Policy currently found in Article 9: Section 9.35. It ensures that the Pierce County Council will establish a specific policy for our homeless neighbors. The hope is to have this policy be a protection to this population, but it is up to each iteration of the council to uphold or amend the policy. The current council is supportive of efforts to support families and individuals to not slip into homelessness aka diversion. And have made strides in trying to make the current system more holistic in the services provided. This policy would help cement the current progress we have achieved.
I currently work at the Family Promise of Pierce County as a Crisis Case Manager, plus Direct Care Staff for an Adult Transitional Living Program for the YMCA of Greater Seattle. I made it a purpose to expand my scope of understanding to a big issue we have in our county, but wanted first hand experience as to what clients are experiencing. Delving into the social work has also given me a more well-rounded approach to policy recommendations by thinking more in depth through impact vs intent. I currently serve on Pierce County's Youth Action Board which focuses on solving youth homelessness.
Meet the Team
Our campaign team is composed entirely of young people, for most of them, this is their first time working on a political campaign. The purpose of having this campaign team is to create meaningful opportunities for young folks where I can, even on the campaign trail, rather than wait until I'm elected to a position to execute these efforts.
The campaign team is separated into two sections, the Youth Team (ages 13-18) and Young Adult Team (ages 19-25). The tasks & duties of each team may be influenced by personal interest, safety, and ability. These positions seek to grow the interest of the political process and bridge the gap in opportunities/information.
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