Sentinel staff report–
As part of The Sentinel’s coverage of local elections, each Citrus Heights City Council candidate was asked a series of identical questions. The questions are designed to give candidates an opportunity to introduce themselves and give voters an opportunity to learn more about each candidate prior to voting.
Candidates replied via email, and those who responded to each question in less than 100 words have their answers published word-for-word. Answers exceeding 100 words were edited for length.
Find out what voting district you live in here.
Q&A: Susan Powers, running for Citrus Heights City Council District 4:
Please give us a short background about who you are, what your job/career is, and how long have you lived in Citrus Heights?
I grew up in and around Citrus Heights and have deep roots in the greater Sacramento area. I attended both Foothill and Del Oro High Schools.
Today, I am proud to be a homeowner and small business owner in Citrus Heights. I own and operate Powers Bookkeeping Service, which has given me the opportunity to work with businesses and individuals in our community. Growing up in this area, owning a home here, and building my business here have given me a strong personal connection to Citrus Heights and a genuine interest in seeing our community continue to grow and thrive.
Why are you running for City Council?
I have grown up in and around Citrus Heights, and this community means so much to me. As a homeowner and small business owner, I see firsthand both the challenges facing our city and the tremendous potential we have for the future. I am running for City Council because I want to be a strong voice for our residents, listen to their concerns, and help keep Citrus Heights moving in a positive direction.
Our community is ready for new leadership, and I believe I can provide a fresh perspective while bringing real-world experience and a strong commitment to service.
What are two things you like most about living in Citrus Heights?
I love that Citrus Heights has a small-town feeling. It is like Cheers, “Everyone knows your name”. I enjoy engaging with my community and local businesses.
I really enjoy the parks. We have a lot to choose from and they are all well maintained. I am excited about the growing trails.
What kind of volunteer work have you done for charities, churches or service organizations in the community?
I am very active in the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce. I sit on the Board of Directors as the Treasurer. I am also a Chamber Ambassador and was Ambassador of the year 2024.
I am also very involved with the Rotary Club of Citrus Heights, where I currently serve on the Board as Treasurer and will serve as Club President for the 2027–2028 term. Through Rotary, I have had the opportunity to work alongside dedicated volunteers who are committed to giving back and making a difference in our community.
Being part of Rotary has strengthened my commitment to service and reinforced my belief that when we work together, we can make a meaningful difference in Citrus Heights.
What are three key principles that will guide your votes on the council?
Being a Rotarian, I have to use the 4 Way test to answer this question:
1st – Is it the TRUTH?
2nd – Is it FAIR to all concerned?
3rd – Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
4th – Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
What are the top two things you’d like to change/improve in the next four years in Citrus Heights?
- I would like to see stronger communication and greater transparency between the City Council and our community when it comes to policies and important decisions. Residents deserve to understand not only what decisions are being made, but also why they are being made. I believe that when the community is informed, understands the reasoning behind decisions, and feels included in the process, we can build greater trust between residents and their city government.
- The continuation of economic growth and supporting that to the best of my ability.
What are two votes the city council has made that you disagree with, and why? (I only have the one)
I believe that when a City contract is up for renewal, the City should issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) whenever appropriate. This gives qualified companies an opportunity to compete for the contract and allows the City to evaluate its options. A competitive process promotes fairness and transparency while helping ensure that Citrus Heights residents are receiving the best possible value for their taxpayer dollars.
*Answers to questions were edited for length. Candidates were given advanced notice regarding the requested length of questions.
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