In the race for Sacramento’s District 7 city council seat, the stakes are high as three candidates prepare for the June 2 primary. Incumbent Rick Jennings, along with Scott Lau and Mark Velasquez, are looking to capture the hearts (and votes) of around 66,000 residents in neighborhoods like Curtis Park and Land Park. Each candidate offers a unique approach to critical issues such as homelessness, budget deficits, and public safety, making this election an exciting one to watch.
Rick Jennings, the veteran of the group, is keen on addressing rising homelessness rates head-on while ensuring that essential city services remain untouched amid budget cuts. Meanwhile, the fresh perspective of Scott Lau shines through his focus on innovative infrastructure and safety measures, challenging traditional concepts of public safety. Mark Velasquez, on the other hand, aims to ensure that existing projects are completed, arguing for the power of follow-through rather than starting anew.
With Sacramento’s budget gap looming large at $66 million, voters are looking for solutions that aren’t just talk but have real impacts on their communities. This election isn’t just about the future of District 7—it’s about setting a precedent for how other districts might approach similar challenges. It seems that everyone is bracing for a showdown of ideas—who knew local government could be so thrilling?
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.






