Meet Councilmember Betty Martinez Franco
Irvine City Council Member for District 5, Small Business Owner, and a USC Graduate Alumni.
Betty Martinez Franco is a dedicated community advocate who achieved a historical victory last April by becoming the first Latina ever elected to the Irvine City Council during a special election. Betty's victory marked a significant political moment, ushering in a dramatic shift toward better representation and a strong voice for Irvine's diverse communities.
In her brief but impactful time on the Council, Betty has proven to be a decisive and unstoppable leader. She fights for women, LGBTQ+ and immigrant rights, stronger libraries, and solutions to help working families thrive.
A Life Story Woven into the Fabric of Irvine
Betty Martinez Franco's life is a powerful narrative of strength and perseverance. Over 30 years ago, she emigrated from Mexico to the U.S. and navigated the immense challenges of being undocumented and surviving domestic violence. Twenty-five years ago, Betty established a stable and secure life in Irvine, where she raised her daughters and later welcomed her grandchildren, completing a successful American story.
That personal history shapes her public service. Betty is determined to ensure that everyone who works in Irvine can afford to live here. For her, housing affordability, economic mobility, and community safety are not just abstract policy concerns, but rather the essential cornerstones of a life lived with dignity.
Prioritizing People and Sustainable Efforts
Betty believes sustainability must address economic inequity. Climate action cannot succeed if working families are left behind. Low-income households deserve the tools, incentives, and opportunities to participate in saving our planet. For Betty, environmental progress and economic fairness are not competing goals; they are inseparable.
Betty is seeking reelection to the Irvine City Council to continue the important work she has begun. We invite you to join her campaign to maintain the progress she has made and ensure Irvine's continued commitment to inclusivity, equity, and transparency.
issues
Housing Affordabilty Options
Housing affordability is a critical issue in Irvine, affecting essential workers, seniors, students, and renters. As your City Council representative, I am committed to creating innovative solutions that ensure everyone can thrive in our community while maintaining the city's master plan and village system.
Traffic Congestion Solutions
Irvine’s growing traffic congestion requires innovative approaches to ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable mobility.
Small Business Advocacy
Small businesses are the backbone of Irvine's vibrant economy, yet many owners face challenges in sustaining operations, and aspiring entrepreneurs struggle to bring their ideas to life. By empowering our business community, we can drive economic growth, create jobs, and make Irvine a hub for innovation and opportunity.
Parks and Libraries Improvements
Parks and libraries act as hubs where residents connect, learn, and grow. Renovations encourage greater use and accessibility. Modern, functional public spaces boost Irvine’s reputation as a forward-thinking and inclusive city.
Developing sustainable Infrastructure
Investing in sustainability is essential to Irvine's future—preserving our environment, supporting green innovation, and ensuring a high quality of life for all residents. As your candidate for Irvine City Council District 5, I am dedicated to making sustainability a priority.
Protecting & Improving the Wellbeing of our Children
According to the 30th annual report on the conditions of children, 12.8% of Irvine's children under 18 live in poverty—a statistic that demands immediate action. As a City Council candidate, my goal is to identify and connect families with available city and county resources to provide essential support.
FOLLOW BETTY ON SOCIAL MEDIA
