Elect Blanche Barajas
For Franklin County Commissioner Dis. 2
Blanche Barajas
My name is Blanche Barajas. I was elected to serve in the Pasco city council in 2018, becoming the first Latina elected to the council in Pasco’s history. In 2020, my peers elected me as the Mayor Pro tem and then as mayor in 2022. I work at the Washington Coalition of Sexual Assault Programs and serve on the Sexual Offenders Policy Board, amongst other groups of social justice and youth health awareness. I am a strong community and social justice advocate. I have a BS in Business Administration and an AAS in Criminal Justice.
"My vision for Franklin County is one where we embrace innovation, promote sustainable growth, and build a future that honors our past while looking forward with optimism and determination."
"I am a dedicated advocate for infrastructure improvements, educational advancements, and accessible healthcare for all. My approach will be grounded in transparency, inclusivity, and collaboration. I will make sure that your voice is heard and every concern is addressed."
"As your County Commissioner, I will bring a fresh perspective, unwavering dedication, and a heartfelt commitment to serving our community. Let’s build a brighter future for Franklin County, where every resident can flourish."
"I have 16 years experience working in non-profits and have done advocacy work via volunteering in many organizations that give me the opportunity to be face to face with the community in general. As the daughter of farm workers, I know the disparities that many have faced: secure jobs, reliable housing, adequate transportation and roads,and better quality of life. My experience in the last 6 years as a city council woman, then mayor, have allowed me to understand the city budget and fiscal responsibility to our citizens. A priority has always been to address ways to work with our legislators and senators, to advocate for funding for the projects that will impact a better quality of life for all."
"My tenure as a council member and Mayor for the City of Pasco, has shown me the need for economic development by managing land wisely, supporting small business and investing in our infrastructure while being fiscally responsible to the residents of Franklin County. Financial sustainability can be achieved by continuously adopting policies and strategic investment standards to assure consistency of long-range planning to include update of impact fees, area fees to specific infrastructure, and SEPA mitigation measures related to new development, e.g.; schools, traffic, parks, and fire."
"Strong and Accountable Public Safety-by ensuring we have a healthy court system that can prosecute criminals in our community. Support for local law enforcement agencies to be able to perform duties without reproach. Transparency and Accountability- to the residents of Franklin County regarding fiscal matters that impact the sustainability of the services and resources available through the many programs offered to county residents. Sustainable environmental policies-I will advocate for conserving natural resources, reducing pollution, ensuring responsible development, and addressing water rights for a sustainable Franklin County."
"Inclusive Democracy- a long range plan should include continuing to collaborate with the city and develop strategies to address homelessness, housing and accessibility to housing ownership. A priority would also include addressing the needs of our farmer's, and their concerns. At county offices and services, I will prioritize and partner with agencies that can make for easy access to services by addressing language barriers: ex. adding signage in other languages at the courts, having material available in other languages, and working on ways to be more accessible to the public."