Farmers are key to tackling climate change

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Listen to the interview with Joaquin Jimenez

“Climate change is real, we see its effects every day: floods, fires, rising sea levels,” said Joaquin Jimenez, mayor of Half Moon Bay, at the start of his re-election campaign for that city's city council. Farmers have knowledge that is crucial in the fight against climate change, but it is not talked about.

“Before Joaquin became mayor of Half Moon Bay, nobody took us Mexicans seriously,” said 25-year-old Alondra Rodriguez, one of the people who gathered to support the launch of Jimenez's campaign.

The event took place in the large garden of Cantina San Benito at 1101 Miramontes Street in downtown Half Moon Bay. The attendees were predominantly young, which is unusual for political campaign events.

Jimenez, who is currently running for a seat on the 3rd District City Council, was born in Jalisco, Mexico, and came to the United States at age 13. The son of farmers, he studied sociology at the University of California, Chico, then broke barriers by becoming the first Mexican immigrant to serve as mayor of Half Moon Bay.

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Before Jimenez became mayor, “Mexicans were not taken seriously in Half Moon Bay,” Rodriguez said. He added that in “this town,” farming families like his were seen as just laborers in the fields, but under Jimenez, they were recognized as human beings.

At the end of the Mexican band music, played live by young people and which got some people dancing, Jimenez took the floor to thank those present for their support, including San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus.

Jiménez also took the microphone to reiterate his government's commitments, which focus essentially on four areas of work: housing, public safety, climate change and economic mobility.

“We have been talking about affordable housing for the community for a decade, but we have never accomplished it. Now we are accomplishing it and are pushing the community council members to create more housing. This is something we need to continue because our community is living in terrible housing conditions,” Jimenez said.

As for safety, the mayor said it has always been one of his priorities, but it has become even more important after the shooting that killed eight farmworkers. In that regard, he said he has received support and close cooperation from San Mateo County Sheriff Christina Corpus, whom he admires.

Regarding his third government axis, Jiménez said that farmers are key to combating climate change because they have traditional land management knowledge that can help mitigate the effects of climate change, such as floods and fires.

“The way she [the farmers] Land management is an important issue that is not addressed. The way the land is managed can influence or contribute to climate change.” He cited the use of chemicals and pesticides that affect the atmosphere as an example. “That's why we need to go back to the traditional knowledge of farmers.”

To promote economic mobility, during his term, Jiménez launched an innovative project that allows farmers to become owners of their own crops and land. In addition, the mayor highlighted his commitment to increasing the minimum wage for farmers, which currently stands at $17 and one cent per hour. “If we are elected, we will continue on this path that will lead to better living conditions for our community.”

“Joaquin is a pillar of our community, someone who not only leads but also listens and acts with empathy and decisiveness,” said Tony Serrano, another participant in that first campaign rally.

Serrano recalled that when his family was faced with the loss of his sister during a mental health crisis at the hands of the San Mateo Sheriff, it was Joaquin who stepped in, did not sit idly by, took action, organized protests, amplified our voices and fought for justice.

In this context, she pointed out that Joaquín Jiménez's efforts were instrumental in the creation of the Yanira Serrano Presente program, which in turn led to the creation of the CARES team, a fundamental initiative that ensures that people in crisis situations receive compassionate care rather than a police response.

This is the kind of leadership that changes communities, Serrano said.

He added that Joaquin has always been more than just a champion of the Latino voice, as he represents all residents of Half Moon Bay with integrity, whether it's supporting local businesses, meeting housing needs or working to ensure everyone has access to basic services.

“His work on mental health and safety resources goes far beyond political promises, he delivers results. His leadership and commitment to our community are needed now more than ever. Joaquin has shown us that he is committed to building a Half Moon Bay where everyone is valued and heard. We need him at City Hall to continue fighting for a future that works for all of us. Let's come together and re-elect Joaquin Jimenez, a true advocate for the people,” she concluded.

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