Local economy, social justice, waterfront dominate Martinez election forum

Taking better advantage of Martinez’s waterfront, bringing local businesses back to health post-COVID-19, fighting homelessness and preparing for big changes at local refineries that have provided jobs and direct financial support for a century were among the main points of discussion at a recent City Council candidate forum.

The two-hour forum, sponsored by the Martinez Chamber of Commerce, included three candidates from District 2, where Mark Ross seeks a seventh four-year term, and from District 3, whose incumbent, Noralea Gipner, is going for a second term.