Westchester/Playa Neighborhood Council Candidate: Jennifer Stonerock

Editor’s note: This is one of several articles in a series of profiles on Westchester/Playa Del Rey Neighborhood Council candidates that Patch will be running leading up to the election.

What would you prioritize if you were voted in?

I would inform the District 12 community of pending proposals and decisions that directly impact District 12 and neighboring districts. In June I had just moved into Westchester again. I found out in late September the plan to build a McDonalds on the corner on Airport and Manchester. My concern of placing a McDonalds there is that it will have a negative impact on our neighborhood. On my own accord, I informed the residents of District 12 and 15 within the proximity of the proposed McDonalds, what was to come.

I went door to door meeting the residents who said they too oppose the idea and were very confused why they were not informed and given the opportunity to speak up against it. Many of us contacted Bill Rosendahls office hoping for his support unfortunately, some were informed "the decision is in its final stages" and there is nothing we can do. In my effort to be involved I found the Neighborhood Council and started attending meetings because I want to be a voice for our community.

With the health and obesity rates today, the last thing we want to contribute to, is adding another fast food restaurant in this community. Within the Westchester boundaries, which is a relatively small community compared to others; we have Wendy's, three Burger Kings, an In-N-Out, McDonalds, two El Pollo loco's, Del Taco, Arby's, and two Taco Bell/Kfc's. It's an unfortunate venture that the community needs were not considered, we need a Fresh and Healthy grocery store, sit down restaurant, or a park. This would bring value to our area and meet the community needs.

This has been my primary focus in the last few weeks. If elected my focus will be beautifying La Tijera.  I want to continue to enhance the entrances to Westchester from the 405 freeway. As a start I'd like to maximize resources and propose to utilize some of the trees promised by the California Science Center and have a medium constructed for placement of them. Additionally I would like to focus on the transition area near Manchester and Florence. A beautification project is needed as well. Westchester is the gateway to the world! People come in and out through Westchester and all access routes to the city need to be minded.

I understand i have a lot of work ahead of me and I need to catch up where we are today as a council. If elected I will work to gain understanding from the residents of District 12 and hopefully be able to marry my ideas and theirs into a feasible action plan with the councils support. 

Who are your primary supporters?

My family, friends, and neighbors are my supporters at this time. I was inspired to run on the 16th of September, so I am working against the clock to gain support from all District 12 residents and businesses.  

What issue do you feel most strongly about and what’s your position?

I support the Neighborhood Councils current position regarding the LAX expansion, alternatives 2 and 9. I want clean air alternatives and clear plans how to reduce traffic congestion. Aviation is highly used access way for cargo and flammable vehicles which also needs renovations. The roads needs to be repaved and the plan for the LAX expansion needs to incorporate innovative ideas, maybe something like jpods.  

What's one thing most constituents don't know about you?

I am an advocate for the underdog. It's in my heart and nature to protect those who can't protect themselves. After working in Human Resources (HR) for many years, it has been my experience HR advocates for the employer. I have and needed to advocate for employees in my position all the while making efforts to include programs, benefits, and resources for them within the means of the organizations. Because the economy has changed so drastically over the past few years, meeting the "need to's" and "want to's" while managing the costs for businesses and communities is top priority. I believe my experiences in business will transfer over from employees to residents and keeping in mind the needs of Westchester, Neighborhood Council, and District 12. 

Why did you decide to run?

I decided to run because my family is vested in this community. I see needs and I want to do something about it. I want to advocate. I want to help "us" in District 12 and Westchester as a whole. I raised my older children here and in the schools and community. I now have an 18 month old son who will also use the schools and community. My goal is to continue to build and secure the future for all of our children here in Westchester.   

Jennifer Stonerock is running for District Seat 12, a four-year term. To read more candidate profiles, click here.

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