As part of The Carson Compass’ Your Vote, Your Voice election coverage, the newspaper is introducing candidates seeking local office in the Nov. 3 general election.

John Hollaway is seeking election to the Carson City Council in District 4, challenging incumbent Councilwoman Arleen Bocatija Rojas. Hollaway is a longtime Carson resident, business owner, community organizer and member of the city’s Public Works Commission. He is campaigning on public safety, senior services, affordable housing and homelessness.

Hollaway said his decision to run grew from years of working directly with residents.

“My inspiration came from years of serving Carson and listening directly to residents,” Hollaway said in his response to The Carson Compass candidate questionnaire. “I decided to run because I want to bring that same hands-on approach to City Hall and make sure residents feel heard and represented.”

Public Safety, Seniors and Housing

Hollaway identified public safety, senior care and services, and affordable housing and homelessness as his three leading priorities.

If elected, he said his first priority would be public safety and community engagement. He said he would meet with residents, law enforcement, city staff, neighborhood leaders and businesses to identify specific concerns and set measurable steps to address them.

Hollaway pointed to existing city investments in security cameras, speed monitoring and other public-safety programs. He said he would evaluate what is working and where more resources may be needed.

He said senior services should focus on helping older residents stay safe, active and connected. On housing and homelessness, Hollaway said he supports expanding “responsible” housing opportunities and pairing homelessness services with accountability. He did not detail specific proposals.

Business, Community and Public Works Experience

Hollaway said he has owned and operated Legacy Garage Doors for more than 20 years. He said the business taught him fiscal responsibility, customer service, problem-solving and accountability.

He also cited nine years as a national sales representative with AT&T Wireless, where he said he built experience in communication and relationship-building.

Hollaway founded Carson 411, a Facebook community group that he said has grown to nearly 20,000 members. He said it has been used to support local businesses, families, students and seniors.

He serves on the city’s Public Works Commission, which advises the City Council on capital improvement projects, traffic management and public rights-of-way. He is also a board member of Carson Accountability and Transparency. Earlier this year he was named Lions Club International Citizen of the Year.

Meeting Residents Where They Are

Hollaway said constituent access would be central to his approach. He said he would hold town halls, conduct neighborhood walks, engage residents on social media and keep up direct conversations with seniors, youth, homeowners, renters and businesses.

He also proposed a program he calls “Juice with John,” in which he would meet with residents in their homes for small-group conversations about neighborhood issues.

“Residents deserve more than a voice at election time—they deserve a voice throughout the entire term,” Hollaway said.

A Hands-On Approach to Service

Asked what distinguishes his candidacy, Hollaway pointed to years of community service before seeking office. He said that work has included assisting families, supporting small businesses, helping seniors and engaging people experiencing homelessness.

“I don’t serve because I’m running for office; I’m running for office because serving people has been part of who I am for years,” Hollaway said.

He said he wants voters to judge him by accessibility, follow-through and consistency before and after Election Day.

Also read: Carson Forum Brings Candidates and Voters Face to Face

Beyond the Ballot

Hollaway’s favorite local restaurant is Las Palmas. His favorite community event is an annual basketball game and toy drive involving the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

His beverage of choice is green tea. He recommends residents visit Juicy Juice.

He is currently reading “Let Thy Food Be Thy Medicine.”

Asked for one word his friends or family would use to describe him, Hollaway chose “inspiring.”

Endorsements

Hollaway reported endorsements from the Los Angeles County Democratic Party, the Filipino American Los Angeles Democrats, SEIU Local 721, AFSCME Local 809, Progressive Democrats, the MLK Democratic Club and BizFed PAC. Support is also listed from Councilmember Jim Dear, who is seeking reelection in District 2, and Daniel Medina.

His Message to Voters

If elected, Hollaway said he hopes residents will say he kept his word, stayed accessible and delivered meaningful results. He said he wants to be remembered as someone who stayed active in neighborhoods, supported seniors, families, and businesses, and remained accountable after Election Day.

In his final message, Hollaway said he believes District 4 has been underrepresented, and he pledged to “represent District 4 proudly and lead with integrity and passion.”