Elections 2024: Competitive Races Likely For Twentynine Palms City Council
Residents in District 1 and District 2 should have at least two candidates to choose from
As the deadlines for filing nomination papers approach, candidates in Twentynine Palms City Council Districts 1 and 2 are counting their nomination signatures and checking them twice to ensure they’ve met the minimum qualifications. District 1 nomination papers are due on August 8. Since incumbent Councilmember Joel Klink has announced that he is retiring, candidates in District 2 will have until August 14 to file. Of course Councilmember Klink could still change his mind….so don’t count on that extension! Candidates should always check the filing dates with their City Clerk.
Below are the candidates Desert Trumpet has confirmed to date. We asked each candidate to submit a photo, a bio and a short statement. The candidates in District 1 have filed their papers, while you may still see the District 2 candidates canvasing for signatures if you are in the ABC’s, the eastern end of Harmony Acres or any of the other neighborhoods in that district.
Residents who want to hear from the candidates directly should mark Saturday, September 14 on the their calendars — Desert Trumpet with the support of the Desert Trail will be hosting a City Council Candidate Forum at the Freedom Plaza Community Center / Gym from 3-5pm. All candidates who successfully file their papers are invited to participate!
DISTRICT ONE
Steven Bilderain
Bio
Steven Bilderain and his family made Twentynine Palms their home after their return back to Twentynine Palms from Okinawa in 2007. Mr. Bilderain retired from the Marine Corps in December 2015 from Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center. A combat veteran, he served multiple tours in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom and held leadership positions in other countries around the world. Mr. Bilderain continues to stay active in coaching youth sports within the city and has continued his education earning a bachelor’s degree in Technical Management from DeVry University (2019) and a Master’s degree in Business from the University of Southern California (2023).
Statement
As I announce my candidacy for re-election, I am cognizant of the arduous tasks and unwavering dedication required to enhance our City's prosperity. My commitment to my fellow neighbors and my pursuit of making our City an exemplary place to raise a family motivates me to continue serving with empathy and unwavering dedication. I look forward to persisting in our joint endeavor to make 29 Palms a safe, vibrant, thriving community, while simultaneously protecting our small city identity with your continued support.
Carrie Williams
Bio
I am a native of Queens, New York, and have lived in 29 Palms for over 30 years.
Working for Marine Corp Community Services (MCCS) for more than a decade provided me with professional certifications, diverse work experience, and the opportunity to see the world.
As a small business owner and non-profit founder, I understand that at-risk groups and families have unique needs within the city. I plan to collaborate with surrounding populations in the Morongo Basin to develop a cohesive approach to understanding and meeting the changing needs of our community.
Statement
What excites me most about leading the 29 Palms community and District 1 is the opportunity to build an inclusive future: I believe the future success of 29 Palms depends on it. My “Future Forward Platform” for 29 Palms includes Educational Development, Youth Programs, and providing Golden Years and Golden Opportunities for our seniors.
If elected, my priorities will involve leveraging organizations and community leaders to identify County, State, and Federal resources to help develop programs valuable to the future of our city.
DISTRICT TWO
April Ramirez
Bio
34 y/o Latina -Mother of 2, Nurse, Military Spouse, Philanthropist, 3 time DAISY Award Nominee and 2023 recipient of a Silver Medal Presidential Service Award April Ramirez is proud to be able to make a difference everywhere she goes. Born and raised in Texas, but lived in California her entire adult life, April believes in fair, transparent government for the people. Recently accepted into a "fast track" 3 year Juris Doctor Program April is on her way to educating herself to be able to fight for and empower our under-serviced populations.
Statement
I don't believe in wasting time. Making the wrong decision the first time is just as detrimental as making the right decision too late. Vote April Ramirez for Council Woman District 2 "A change you can see, in real time"
Paul Razo
Bio
I’m a proud Inland Empire native from a rural unincorporated area of San Bernardino County called Bloomington. I first came to Twentynine Palms in 2017 and was immediately drawn to its stunning landscapes and close knit community. As a local business owner and member of the city’s Public Arts Advisory Committee, I’ve already had the pleasure of serving our residents, from behind a retail counter and in City Hall. I’ve worked closely with city officials and built the relationships needed to start coordinating collaborations on day one. I’m excited to get started.
Statement
I would like to run for City Council because I believe Twentynine Palms should be more than a nice place to visit, it should be a place we’re proud to call home! If elected I would advocate for sustainably conscious growth, boosting our local economy, and preserving the legacy of our city.
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Hi Clyde — yes, they must live in the district they represent.
Are candidates required to live in the district they are representing ?