University Place councilmember highlights veteran ties, encourages volunteerism

Javier Figueroa, a University Place City Council member, outlined his background in real estate development, military service and parks management and urged residents to volunteer with local commissions.

Figueroa, who said he has served on the council for 15 years and has lived in University Place for 33 years, said his decision to run was driven by a desire to improve sidewalks, roads and city services. “What really inspired me to run for city council was literally just seeing our city, our community, wanting to improve, our environment. Sidewalks, roads, better services,” Figueroa said.

He recounted earlier public-service roles that informed his priorities. He said he first ran for a school board position, was later appointed to the Parks Commission and worked for the Washington State Recreation Commission “as a lands manager.” He emphasized parks and partnerships with the military community, saying the sixteenth Combat Aviation Brigade from JBLM is “our community partner.”

Figueroa also described his military background, saying he served under the sixteenth Combat Aviation Brigade in 1970 in Vietnam. He linked that experience to his interest in supporting veterans and active-duty service members in University Place.

On civic engagement, Figueroa urged residents to focus on areas where they have relevant expertise and to volunteer for commissions such as planning, public safety or economic development. “If you like to meet 1 on 1, let me know and we'll have some coffee, walk around, and just have a chat,” he said, offering contact by phone or email.

He closed by noting personal motivations and community pride: he called University Place his hometown and said he values local parks, events and schools as reasons he is “really grateful” to live there.

The remarks combined personal background, references to local partnerships and a direct appeal for residents to get involved in city commissions.