Questionnaire: Sajan Kurian, candidate for Pompano Beach City Commission District 5

Name: Sajan Kurian

Campaign website: N/A

Date and place of birth: Vasco-Da-Gama, Goa, India.

List in order of importance the three most important issues in your community and briefly explain what you would do about each.

Running for Commissioner in Pompano Beach City District 5 requires a strategic platform that addresses local issues and resonates with residents. Experience, dependability, Accountability, education and navigational effectiveness is key in this City commission race . Here are some key areas I am considering:

• Public Safety: weekly law enforcement incident report, Advocate for policies that enhance public safety, such as community policing initiatives in troubled areas(1-every 2000 households especially on the weekends/holidays), neighborhood watch programs with law enforcement followups, free Basic CPR classes for youth and adults, fire drills, disaster/hurricane preparedness, AED stations and support for emergency services. Adequate/appropriate resources for law enforcement/fire/Ems department their safety and multicultural trainings.

• Health and Social Services: Address healthcare access issues for seniors and women, support mental health services, tackle the rising homelessness issue in the district 5, advocate/ troubleshoot for Healthcare access, subsidized or free transportation for Seniors and low income families. Provide quarterly or as needed mobile clinics basic health screening (free) at precinct areas that need the most and advocate for programs that improve the well-being of all residents.

• Infrastructure and Development: Address issues in District 5 such as road maintenance, Collier City street cleaning (pressure wash all curbs and sidewalks), offer home owners subsidized paint program, traffic light synchronization (Atlantic Blvd Poweline, McNab, Andrews Ave, Cypress creek to start with etc, especially during week days rush hours/school hours), public transportation improvements (discounted or free), Public Parking at the beach fee review (especially $20 fee reduced or discounted passes for Pompano Beach residents on weekends and holidays), Senior friendly and sustainable development practices. Emphasize plans for revitalizing neighborhoods, a minimum commitment of 20% job opportunity involving local residents especially the 15% Minority/low income level and attracting local small businesses with appropriate inventive based proposals.

• Affordable Housing: Address housing affordability issues through zoning reforms, assessment of applicant’s income and work on individual based recommendations for affordable housing allocation/developments, partnerships with nonprofit (Spoke with United Way of Broward County etc), faith based organizations, community input and TownHall.

• Fiscal Responsibility: Advocate for responsible Pompano Beach City $426 million budget management and transparency in government spending. Encouraging community engagement and consistent productivity. Prioritize funding for essential services, workers safety, wage equity while exploring cost-saving measures

• Community Engagement: Focus on increasing transparency and community involvement in decision-making processes. Promote town hall meetings, online forums, and neighborhood gatherings to gather input from residents and community leadership of Collier City, Gardens North, Pinnacle Village, Palm-Aire Cypress Bend, John Knox Village. Currently, there’s no effective communication or community engagement process in place and some don’t even know who their current elected officials are.

• Education and Youth Programs: Support local schools and initiatives that provide educational opportunities for youth. Promote after-school programs, drug prevention programs, career pathway mentorship initiatives, and vocational training.

•Environmental Sustainability: Develop strategies to protect local ecosystems, reduce pollution, and promote renewable energy initiatives. Address concerns related to climate change adaptation, sea level rise initiatives, flooding/drainage issues, Smart energy policies and resilience. (I am planning to introduce a new solar energy program that may help the population in District #5.. work in progress.)

• Economic Development: Create initiatives to attract new businesses while supporting existing ones, especially the locally, minority and women owned. An immediate survey of businesses for issue based proposals, Focus on job creation, economic diversity, and entrepreneurship opportunities/resources from Pompano Beach city or Broward County.

• Cultural and Recreational Opportunities: Promote multicultural arts, culture, and recreational activities that enhance knowledge and quality of life for residents. Support local cultural events, festivals, and recreational facilities.

Violent crime in the northwest is a major concern. Sheriff Gregory Tony targeted gangs and blamed lack of opportunities for young people. Do you agree or disagree, and is Pompano Beach safe enough?

Sheriff Gregory Tony’s re-election by Broward County voters is a testament to his effective leadership and commitment to our community. His recent initiative to arrest over 130 individuals demonstrates a proactive approach to tackling crime and addressing the issues facing our youth. I fully support his belief that our young people need more opportunities and resources to thrive.

Addressing these challenges requires collective effort—it’s not only the responsibility of law enforcement but also of us as parents and citizens. Constructive criticism is valuable, but it should be accompanied by actionable solutions. By focusing on community-based solutions and understanding the unique issues in different areas of Broward County, we can drive positive change together. I have personally spoken with the Sheriff to address these issues.

Addressing Violent Crime in Pompano Beach: A Comprehensive Approach

To tackle violent crime in Pompano Beach, we must address both its root causes and immediate safety concerns. My plan focuses on three key areas:

⦁ Addressing Root Causes of Crime:

• Youth Opportunities: Expand vocational training and career readiness programs in schools to offer young people viable alternatives to gang involvement. Support after-school programs and community centers to keep at-risk youth engaged in constructive activities.

• Economic Development: Promote local economic growth and job creation to alleviate economic disparities, which can drive individuals toward criminal behavior.

⦁ Strengthening Law Enforcement:

• Increased Resources: Advocate for enhanced funding for the police/fire/ems department’s to ensure their safety, effective patrolling, especially during high-risk times like nights and weekends. Invest in officer safety, culture education and training.

• Advanced Technology: Support the use of tools like “ShotSpotter” or better for real-time crime detection and effective 911 emergency response times to save lives and utilize data analytics to optimize resource deployment.

⦁ Public Safety Programs:

•Enhanced Patrolling: Increase visible patrols in high-crime areas to deter criminal activity and build trust within the community. Invest in technology like “ShotSpotter” etc to save lives and enhance 911 emergency response times.

•Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with local organizations and churches to create comprehensive crime prevention strategies.

⦁ Transparency and Accountability:

• Regular Updates: Commit to providing the community with regular crime statistics and updates on crime prevention efforts. Establish feedback channels to keep residents informed and involved.

By focusing on these strategies, we can address the root causes of crime, strengthen our law enforcement, and enhance overall public safety in Pompano Beach.

Pompano Beach is a “hot” destination. The city has revised its development codes to guide future growth. Do you believe that this growth is good or bad for the city, and how well is it managing growth?

In my view, Pompano Beach’s growth presents both opportunities and challenges. Promoting tourism is crucial for the city’s economy, especially given its proximity to the cruise terminal and Fort Lauderdale Airport. Tourism not only supports the local economy but also boosts small businesses and job creation, which are vital for the city’s financial health and community well-being.

However, it’s equally important that this growth is managed transparently and inclusively. The revision of development codes should ensure that residents, as well as small business owners, have a voice in how the city evolves. By fostering a collaborative approach, Pompano Beach can better align development with community interests and support local businesses and job opportunities. Currently, there seems to be a disconnect between the city’s development plans and community involvement. Addressing this gap is essential for ensuring that growth benefits everyone, especially the marginalized, Black and Brown communities should be considered a minimum commitment of 20%, creating a balanced and sustainable future for the city. I will have an open-door policy and immediately change the current culture if given the chance to serve!

Would you support an increase in pay and benefits for elected officials in your city? Why or why not?

As Pompano Beach continues to grow, it’s crucial to elect a Commissioner who is performance-based and not swayed by lobbyists or corporate entities. The influence of corporations can overshadow the needs of low-income mminority residents, who often feel excluded from the decision-making process.

To address these issues, I advocate for strict financial transparency and ethical standards for elected officials. They should undergo thorough scrutiny of their personal assets and contributions to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure accountability. As a self-funded candidate and some contributions from personal friends of the community and family support, I have restricted corporate contributions to maintain my independence and prioritize the needs of the community over external interests.

If elected, I am willing to donate 10% of my first year’s salary to a verified low-income project or individual resident issue or crisis that needs immediate attention in District #5

This approach is essential for ensuring that Pompano Beach’s growth benefits all residents fairly and fosters ethical, balanced governance.

What factor most distinguishes you from your opponent(s) and why?

What sets me apart from my opponents is my unwavering commitment to transparency and independence. I am mostly a self-funded candidate who has restricted corporate contributions to avoid conflicts of interest, ensuring my focus remains on the community’s needs rather than external pressures or lobbying efforts.

I bring a wealth of experience and a clear vision for Pompano Beach, District 5. My diverse background in healthcare, civic involvement, advocacy for small businesses and community development underscores my dedication to serving our residents. My comprehensive vision addresses key issues such as school teachers’ needs, law enforcement, Fire/EMS, healthcare affordability, housing, green energy, hurricane preparedness, transportation, and wage equity.

Additionally, my focus on clean water, environmental sustainability, public safety, and mental health education highlights my commitment to enhancing the well-being of all citizens. This dedication to transparency, ethical governance, and a well-rounded approach to community issues truly distinguishes me from my opponents, promising effective and equitable representation for Pompano Beach.

List in reverse chronological order colleges or universities attended with years of attendance and degrees.

⦁ 2011 Madurai Kamraj University, Lusby, Maryland (Satellite)

4yr Bachelors Degree in Business Administration

⦁ 2000 Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer

y2k transition specialist program

⦁ 1998 Albert Einstein School of Radiology

2 yr Radiology Program

⦁ 1996 Medical College of Virginia Hospitals- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia

2yrs Pre requisites for Medical Sciences

•1994 Middlesex Community College, New Jersey

Science and physics minor

⦁ 1984 Fr. Angel Junior Technical college, Mumbai, India

Production/Mechanical engineering

List in reverse chronological order your work history for the past 15 years.

November 2017- Current Florida Medical Center, Oakland Park, FL

Cardiovascular Interventional Radiology stroke and Electrophysiology Team.

⦁ Assignment/assistance of tasks and procedures as directed by Chief Cardiologist.

July 2015 – August 2016 Florida House of Representatives

Candidate for District 92.

November 2012 – July 2015 Florida House Of Representatives

Legislative and Government Affairs

Worked with the Executive, Legislative, Judicial, and Congressional branches of the Florida Government.

Worked with legislative bodies to assist their State duty and facilitate and overseeing key aspects of the of the bill making process that address the important issues of the day, researching legislative issues; filing and tracking legislation; writing press releases and newsletters; handling constituent requests; scheduling appointments, preparing reports.

Attended state and local meetings, Broward County legislative delegations, town hall, and other events on behalf of the State House Representative, as well as working with groups to identify key issues for the district and local government advising the State Representative of such feedback.

Liaised with local government bodies and its leaders in the District to ensure smooth collaboration between state bodies and local bodies on important issues and projects that served the needs of the District (City of Sunrise, Davie Township, City of Plantation, Hollywood, Hallandale, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, West Park & Pembroke Park).

Supervised and managed District/Capitol (Tallahassee) office.

Organized grassroots level community assistance programs.

Worked closely with Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) on various issues.

Worked extensively with Department of Elder and Veterans’ affairs.

June 2009 – June 2011 UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER, Dallas, TX.

Senior Staff Technologist (Diagnostic/CT)

Displayed proficiency in all areas of diagnostic & CT imaging procedures

Instructed & mentored students in radiographic procedures

Demonstrated outstanding patient care skills

Maintained CT protocols for E.R stroke/Neuro patients.

First University Hospital “Employee of the Month” Award

Recipient of P.A.C.T Service Pin Award (Problem solving, Ability, Attitude, Appearance, Communication, Compassion & Teamwork)

Internal campus-wide marketing branding campaign representative

Volunteered in all shifts & varied assignments

CT assignments on GE & Toshiba Scanners

Maintained University protocols, policy for CT, CVIR & Imaging services

Assigned frequently with leadership duties on behalf of management

Hospital Employee, inter-departmental communication & Patient satisfaction committee team member

BLS Instructor for University Hospital Employees

January 2008 – June 2015 2STAY@HOME CARE SERVICES

Manager/Senior/Coordinator/Caregiver

Worked effectively with a diverse population of Physicians, nursing staff, management, and administration

Duties included staff supervision, recruitments and development, planing, budget, quality and facility homecare operations, coordination of staffing and patient services ensuring high quality services

Developed advanced knowledge of assigned department operations including policies, personnel and budget management

Companionship care for homebound nursing home geriatric patients

Have you ever been a party to a lawsuit, including bankruptcy or foreclosure? If so, provide details of the case and disposition.

Pending dissolution of Marriage 2018.

Have you ever been charged or convicted of a felony or misdemeanor, including an adjudication of guilt withheld? If so, provide charges, dates and terms of sentence.

Closed ARD program 2004.

Why should voters elect you instead of your opponent(s)?

Experience:

●Healthcare Clinical professional, Business Management College Bachelors Degree.

●Federal, State, Municipal, County & Civic involvement.

●Broward County Public Schools Facilities & Parent Teachers Involvement Task force.

●Human Rights organization, Charter Review, Parks/Recreation & HOA Board.

●Small Business Services Consultant (USA and International)

●State Attorney’s Hate Crimes Unit Task Force

●American College of Cardiology Advocacy Team (Tallahassee/ Washington D.C)

●Healthcare Workers Union, Arbitration, bargaining team, National executive board.

●Community Partnership program

●Broward Public School youth Mentorship

●First Responder (Cardiac, Interventional Radiology and Stroke emergency response Team),

⦁ Lead organizer, City of Pembroke Pines cultural carnival 2012 & 2013

⦁ Miami International Airport Embassy Protocol, Consular Camp (assistance)

⦁ TeamAid.org- National Director (Human Rights)

⦁ State Attorney’s office Expunge and seal program

⦁ ACLS/BLS Instructor

⦁ Construction and Building

●Certified Emergency Response Team (C.E.R.T Broward County)

●Geriatric home Care Assistance/services (Certified Nursing Aide)

⦁ Covid Hero recognition

●Notary Public Florida

Vision:

●Healthcare affordability and Accessibility

●Housing, Land Use, revitalized green energy programs

●Smart Sister City program

●Seniors, Veteran’s Transportation affordable access

●Traffic light synchronization

●Clean water and environmentally friendly policies

●Law enforcement, Fire/Ems, Teachers, Transit & Medical worker’s wage equity and safety.

●Mental health education, workshops & resources.

Voters should review my ability, lifetime experiences, and then elect me over my opponents because of my unique combination of multi-tasking experience, navigational effectiveness, transparency and commitment to community-oriented governance.

I bring a wealth of experience and a clear vision for Pompano Beach, District 5. My diverse background in healthcare, civic involvement, and advocacy for small businesses and community development underscores my dedication to serving our residents. My comprehensive vision addresses key issues such as school teachers’ needs, law enforcement, Fire/EMS, healthcare affordability, housing, green energy, hurricane preparedness, transportation, and wage equity.

Additionally, my focus on clean water, environmental sustainability, Human Rights, public safety improvements, revitalized community involvement or communication initiatives and mental health education highlights my commitment to enhancing the well-being of all citizens. I have received multiple awards, recognitions and certificates for my civic service involvement from non-profit organizations, Asian Pacific Islander API-1198SEIU, local, national and international elected officials. I was the lead organizer for  landmark initiative and played a pivotal role in bringing the historic monument of Gandhi Statue project to fruition and naming of “Gandhi Street” in Davie, Florida. The installation ceremony was Inaugurated by the esteemed President of India, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. The Gandhi Statue and the new street name serve as enduring tributes to Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy of peace and non-violence.

This dedication to transparency, civic involvement in landmark initiatives, multicultural community approach, multi-City, County, state or Federal agencies, Legislative intergovernmental experience, ethical governance, and a well-rounded approach to community issues, reflect my ability to lead with integrity and a clear vision for progress truly distinguishes me from my opponents, promising effective and equitable representation bringing this same dedication and strategic thinking to the role of Commissioner for Pompano Beach District #5.