An Interview With Jack Tanaka

A longtime resident of Diamond Bar, Jack Tanaka is active in multiple community organizations, including the Diamond Bar Breakfast Lions Club, and has been on the City Council since 2005. Along with Carol Herrera, he is one of two council members up for re-election on November 8.

Patch: Why are you running for re-election?

Jack Tanaka: I wish to continue serving and representing the residents of Diamond Bar.

What is the most important issue you think the city is facing?

The most important issue is the lack of economic development and the loss of businesses in our city. 

What will be your top priority if you are re-elected?

Completion of Washington mini-park, maintain public safety and assisting our local businesses. 

What motivated you to run for City Council the first time?

My motivation was making Diamond Bar one of the best cities to live in.

If you had a magic wand, what would you do for Diamond Bar?

Create a Diamond Bar downtown.

Please share a little background information on yourself.

I am 63 years of age and have lived and owned a home in Diamond Bar for 35 years. I grew up in East Los Angeles and went to schools there. I am a graduate from California State University at Long Beach. I am a retired peace officer after a 30-year career with Youth and Adult Corrections. I have worked in the California Youth Authority institutions and worked with adult parole with the Department of Corrections. I am a retired Master Sergeant after serving 23 years in the United States Army Reserves. I was assigned to the 349th General Hospital Unit in Los Angeles. I served six years as the Hospital Company First Sergeant.

I have served on the Diamond Bar Planning Commission for three-and-a-half years and on the Diamond Bar City Council for six-and-a-half years. I am a 25-year member and past president of the Diamond Bar Breakfast Lions Club, 22-year member and Past President of the California Asian Peace Officers Association and serve as the Lion Advisor for the Chaparral and Diamond Bar High School Leo Clubs. I have been married to my wife, Wanda, for 39 years. I have no children, but have two dogs and  turtle.

Please share anything else you think readers would be interested in knowing about you or your campaign.

As most of the residents know, for my campaign, if you vote for me, you get twice the representation with Wanda and myself.