San Bernardino Mayor Pro Tem and lifelong Westside resident Bessine Littlefield Richard this week announced her intent to seek re-election fto the city council representing the 6th Ward.
“San Bernardino’s working class neighborhoods and communities of color have finally achieved a majority on the city council,” declared Richard, who was recently chosen to serve as San Bernardino’s mayor pro tem. “I am seeking re-election to continue moving our city forward as a more inclusive, diverse and successful community for all residents.”
Citing the achievement of a local police substation to improve emergency response in the 6th Ward, Richard stated, “For years, the concerns of West Side residents were ignored by city leaders. Today, our community’s increased clout at City Hall gives the people of the Westside a real opportunity to correct these past wrongs and get our fair share of city services.”
Born and raised on San Bernardino’s Westside, Richard says she is “dedicated to providing new job opportunities and affordable homes to help local residents build a brighter future for their families. “I’m fighting to end the injustices which have kept so many of our people from achieving their dreams of a better life,” she said.
Community leaders throughout San Bernardino County expressed support for Councilwoman Richard’s re-election in the March 2020 election.
“I’m proud to endorse Councilwoman Bessine Richard,” declared Assemblyman James Ramos. “Her leadership is truly making a difference in empowering the people of San Bernardino.”
“Westside residents couldn’t ask for a more dedicated advocate at City Hall than Councilwoman Bessine Richard,” stated San Bernardino School Board Trustee Danny Tillman.
“Councilwoman Bessine Richard has earned my support because of her passion for helping others,” said San Bernardino Mayor John Valdivia. “During her first term on the city council, she has been instrumental in ushering in a new era of leadership for San Bernardino.”
Other well known community leaders endorsing Richard’s re-election include San Bernardino County Supervisor Josie Gonzales, San Bernardino County Board of Education Trustee Joseph Williams, Former State Assemblymember Cheryl Brown, San Bernardino city councilmembers Juan Figueroa and Theodore Sanchez; Rialto Mayor Deborah Robertson; and Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren.
Bessine Littlefield Richard is the youngest of eight children. She graduated from San Bernardino High School and received her degree from San Bernardino Valley College. Bessine’s four children were all born, raised and attended school in the 6th Ward. She is a member of Ecclesia Christian Fellowship Church.
Professionally, Bessine has 40 years of public service with the County of San Bernardino, including working for the public health, economic development, social services, sheriff’s child support, probation and county workforce development departments.