Meet Councilmember Betty Martinez Franco
IRVINE CITY COUNCIL MEMBER FOR DISTRICT 5
Betty Martinez Franco is a dedicated community advocate who achieved a historic victory last April, becoming the first Latina ever elected to the Irvine City Council in a special election. Her election marked a pivotal moment for the City, ushering in stronger representation and a bold, community-driven voice for Irvine’s diverse residents.
Betty has been one of the leading voices on the Council, pushing back against Irvine’s rising cost of living. She has consistently advocated for policies that expand affordable housing and increase access for working families, while also demanding accountability from developers to ensure new projects include real community benefits, not just higher prices. She has been clear that growth must work for residents, not just profits.
At the same time, Betty understands the realities of state housing mandates and has worked to ensure Irvine complies in a way that protects neighborhoods while still delivering meaningful affordability. She has pushed for smart, balanced development that meets state requirements without sacrificing the character of the community, all while fighting to keep Irvine livable for the teachers, service workers, and families who power the city.
OUR IMPACT IN THE COMMUNITY
In her first year on the Council, Betty has quickly positioned herself as a results-oriented and decisive leader, turning ideas into action and delivering meaningful change for the community:
-
She established Irvine’s first Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Office, transforming a previously approved concept into a fully realized city initiative with accountability to residents.
-
She has taken a stand for immigrant rights, urging the City to join the Perdomo v. Noem lawsuit to oppose unlawful ICE enforcement actions and protect vulnerable communities.
-
Committed to building a more connected and accessible Irvine, Betty launched a pilot bike share program in District 5, improving mobility between Woodbridge, City Hall, and UC Irvine while promoting active transportation.
-
She also partnered with the Irvine Police Department to introduce a youth e-bike safety training program, giving middle school students hands-on education to keep them safe.
-
Her leadership extends to preserving and enhancing community resources. Betty has advocated for the preservation and potential acquisition of the University Park Library, ensuring long-term public access to this vital neighborhood asset.
-
She also delivered real results for seniors, securing a new bus stop and canopy at the Lakeview Senior Center, at no cost to the City, improving accessibility and comfort for older adults.
-
Betty continues to bring people together through meaningful initiatives. She led the creation of Irvine’s first Women’s Conference during Women’s History Month, uplifting women’s voices and advancing the City’s commitment to gender equity.
-
Through her “Health & Wellness Talks with Betty,” she connects residents directly with critical services, including partnerships that raise awareness around domestic violence and family support.
Boards I Am Honored to Serve
-
Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) - Board of Directors.
-
Great Park - Board of Directors.
-
Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) - Community, Economy & Human Development Committee.
-
Irvine Barclay Theater - Board of Directors.
-
Orange County Power Authority (OCPA) - Board of Directors Alternate.
-
Orange County Council of Governments (OCCOG) - Board of Directors Alternate.
-
IUSD City Liaison
A LIFE STORY WOVEN INTO THE FABRIC OF IRVINE
Betty Martinez Franco’s story is one of resilience, courage, and determination. More than 30 years ago, she emigrated from Mexico to the United States, overcoming the challenges of being undocumented and surviving domestic violence. She built her life in Irvine, where she raised her two daughters in District 5 as they attended local schools. Today, she is a proud grandmother of two, and her family’s journey reflects the promise of the American dream.
That lived experience drives her public service. Betty is committed to ensuring that everyone who works in Irvine has the opportunity to live here. She fights for housing affordability, economic mobility, and public safety because she believes every family deserves stability, dignity, and a fair chance to succeed.
Deeply rooted in the community she calls home, Betty brings both lived experience and professional expertise to her role. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from California State University, Fullerton, and a master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Southern California. As a small business owner, she operates a boutique public relations firm, bringing a practical, results-driven approach to serving Southern California's residents.
"I am seeking reelection to the Irvine City Council to continue the important work we have begun. We invite you to join my campaign to maintain the progress we have made and ensure Irvine's continued commitment to inclusivity, equity, and transparency."
- Councilmember Betty Martinez Franco
Media Gallery
Download High-Res Images Here
FOLLOW BETTY ON SOCIAL MEDIA
