Jose Leon Barraza’s decades of experience as a public servant, community advocate, and nonprofit leader have resulted in meaningful and measurable improvements for the residents of Fresno District 5 and beyond.
His commitment to fostering economic growth, improving public safety, and enriching the community has left a lasting legacy.
Below are some of Jose’s key achievements:
Revitalizing Businesses Along Cesar Chavez Boulevard
1. Transforming Parks and Recreation
- Secured $9 Million for a Regional Park and Soccer Complex:
Jose played a pivotal role in obtaining funding for a 49-acre park at Peach and California Avenues, complete with soccer fields and recreational facilities. Construction is scheduled to begin in January 2025. - Equitable Distribution of Measure P Funds:
As a Fresno City Parks, Recreation, and Arts Commissioner, Jose continues to advocate that underserved areas like Southeast Fresno receive their fair share of the $40 million annual budget for park improvements and cultural arts programs. - Creation of Park Ranger Positions:
Advocated for the establishment of a new Park Ranger classification, resulting in 24 rangers dedicated to patrolling and improving safety in city parks.
News Story:
Hundreds march through southeast Fresno to demand parks and soccer fields. By Rory Appleton. November 14, 2015.
Read more on the Fresno Bee Report ↗
On November 14, 2015 Soccer moms and dads and their children from the Southeast Fresno Youth Soccer League and other community groups participated in a march from Sunnyside Park to the project site on Peach Avenue.
In year 2005, 49 acres of land were donated to the City of Fresno by the US National Park Service (NPS) at South Peach Avenue for the construction of a new park.
SEFCEDA Adopts the Project Site – News Story
SEFCEDA adopted the 49-acre project site and led cleanup efforts with the help of dedicated volunteers. From February 2018 to February 2022, the site was maintained with grant funding and transformed through tree planting and the installation of irrigation systems.
The Fresno Bee Report February 18, 2018: There’s a shortage of parks in southeast Fresno. One group steps up with plans to help ↗
Major Milestone: $8.5 Million Secured for Southeast Fresno Regional Park
– News Story
On May 17, 2022, the City of Fresno announced $8.5 million in funding for the construction of Phase I of the Southeast Fresno Regional Park and Soccer Complex. This long-awaited project, shaped by resident input during the conceptual design process, is set to begin construction in January 2025
The Business Journal Report: Southeast Fresno soccer complex project hits $8.5M milestone ↗
A conceptual plan of this regional park and soccer complex. Construction is scheduled to start January, 2025.
As a Commissioner, Leon Barraza has been a strong advocate for equity and fairness in the allocation of Measure P funds to South Fresno areas of our City. The Commission recommends to the Fresno City Council the annual allocation of about $40 million to improve existing parks and build new parks and grants to Fresno nonprofits for cultural arts projects.
Learn more about Measure P challenges and progress – News Story:
Emotions run high on Measure P commission as challenges over equity stall grant distributions ↗ By Doug Hoagland.
2. Advancing Economic Development
- Creation of a Countywide Enterprise Zone:
As Fresno County Director of Economic Development, Jose spearheaded the establishment of an Enterprise Zone involving 14 cities, offering tax credits to small businesses to encourage job creation and investment. - Small Business Support:
Through his leadership at SEFCEDA, Jose has assisted numerous small business owners with technical support, façade improvements along Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard, and public safety advocacy to attract more customers. - Facilitating Job Training Programs:
Jose has overseen job training initiatives that have helped hundreds of residents gain skills for high-paying careers, including construction roles in public and private projects like High-Speed Rail.
3. Addressing Public Safety
- City-County Tax Sharing Agreement:
Jose negotiated a city/county agreement that generated additional funding for hiring more police officers in Fresno, improving safety across the city. - Homelessness Solutions Advocacy:
As part of his public safety efforts, Jose has worked to connect homeless individuals with resources to help them find stability and support.
4. Supporting Community Beautification
- Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard Facelift:
Jose has led efforts to revitalize business facades along Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard, enhancing the area’s economic activity and aesthetic appeal. - Volunteer Clean-Up Projects:
Partnering with local volunteers, Jose has spearheaded numerous beautification events to clean up Southeast Fresno neighborhoods and streets.
Pedro Navarro and Jose Luis Barraza on hand with Jose Leon Barraza at a beautification and clean-up event held in the vicinity of Cedar Avenue and Cesar Chavez Boulevard.
FACADE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
As the CEO of the Southeast Fresno Community Economic Development Association (SEFCEDA) Jose Leon Barraza has been involved in the improvement, clean up and beautification of the Cesar Chavez Boulevard (formerly the Kings Canyon Road) and other businesses in Southeast Fresno. This project has been implemented in partnership with the Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation and the City of Fresno.
The following businesses have participated in the beautification of the front of their businesses and we invite you to support them:
CLASSIC LADY
3527 E. Cesar Chavez Boulevard,
Fresno, CA 93702
Owner: Norma Medellin
DC TAX SERVICE
4105 E. Cesar Chavez Boulevard,
Fresno, CA 93702
Owner: Alex Yang
PRO CHECK AUTO CARE
4006 E. Cesar Chavez Boulevard,
Fresno, CA 93702
Owner: Eddie Naranjo
COUNTRY FARE CAFE
4662 E. Belmont,
Fresno, CA 93702
Owner: Jose and Theresa Valadez
DULCERÍA MAGGI’s
4531 E. Cesar Chavez Boulevard,
Fresno, CA 93702
Owner: Margarita Higareda
EL PASO FURNITURE
4662 E. Belmont,
Fresno, CA 93702
Owner: Manuel Morales
5. Responding During the COVID-19 Pandemic
- Food Distribution Programs:
Jose coordinated the distribution of essential food supplies to families in need during the pandemic, ensuring no one went hungry in the community. - Small Business Relief Assistance:
Provided guidance to small business owners applying for COVID-19 relief grants, helping them navigate financial challenges and keep their doors open.
Getting ready to start distribution of food containers to to residents during COVID-19
6. Recognized Leadership and Service
- Champion for Economic Development Award (2009):
Presented by the Economic Development Corporation serving Fresno County for his significant contributions to job creation and business growth. - California State Assembly Certificate of Recognition (2009):
Honored for his dedication to economic and community development initiatives. - Recognition by Five Cities Economic Development Corporation:
Acknowledged by the cities of Selma, Sanger, Parlier, Fowler, and Reedley for his economic development efforts.
Commitment to a Brighter Future
in Fresno District 5
Jose Leon Barraza is dedicated to working hand-in-hand with the residents of District 5 to build a safer, more prosperous, and equitable Fresno. By prioritizing public safety, economic growth, housing, parks, and inclusivity, Jose will ensure our community thrives for generations.
Join the movement and support Jose Leon Barraza's mission to create meaningful change for District 5.
Together, we can achieve great things!