(Eric Garcetti / Wikimedia Commons)

Neighborhood:  600 Block, Los Angeles.

Job:  Retired housekeeper

Age:  81  

What are the top issues facing Los Angeles, and why? 

Education and communication first.

We need education that points to technology. Look at McDonalds; it doesn't pay much, but if you can't use the computer you can't work there. You need to know what to know with the times. 

Transportation also.  

You spend so much a year on your cars because there are so many potholes and so many bad streets. You hit them, that's wear and tear.  Once I hit a pothole and burst my transmission.

What could Mayor Garcetti do to address your top priorities?

I think addressing education overall—more money and more concern. I think he's sorta into that now. He's going to meetings and visiting different schools, and he's getting to the level with the kids. He's sitting down and he's talking to them; they can touch him.  

Contact and communication is the thing. When you get to know people—what's going on with the community and the people in the community—then you know what to fight for.  

Did you vote in the May election?  Who did you support?

I'm a democrat, but I vote for the best person. I investigate, and whoever is better at that time, that's who you vote for.  

We've had Republican and Democrats but it depends on the person who does the job.  Once you get in there, you have the opportunity to do your best. But you never know. 

I voted for Garcetti. I want change.  

Reach Staff Reporter Michael Nystrom here.