I’m Jaime Báez Jr. I care deeply about Reading and the people who call it home. You deserve someone you can reach, who listens and follows through. I ask the tough questions, work toward solutions, and take action. That means doing what’s responsible for our city—even when it isn’t the popular choice.
Rooted in service Accountable to the people Ready to act
A LITTLE ABOUT ME
My path wasn’t a straight line.
It brought me here.
My working life began as a janitor and took me through manufacturing, banking, running my own business, and helping residents navigate government. Along the way, I learned to solve problems, work with people, and keep going when things got difficult.
Community service came before elected office. From neighborhood cleanups to organizing volunteers and connecting families with resources, I’ve seen what happens when people have someone in their corner.
Today, I serve Reading’s District 2 on City Council. I bring that same approach to every conversation: listen first, ask the questions, and follow through.
Safe Berks Walk for HopeSupporting the Sociedad Hispana del Cáncer de PennsylvaniaRecognizing community service
See more photosSee fewer photos
Making time for a conversation at Senior LIFEBingo with neighbors at Kennedy HouseBreaking ground on the solar-panel project with Schneider ElectricAt the BCTV podcast studioSpeaking at Connections WorkRecognizing Franklyn’s Breakfast, Burgers & ShakesHispanic Heritage Month at the Governor’s ResidenceRecognizing volunteers at Empire Beauty SchoolPitching in at a neighborhood cleanupSpeaking up for voting rightsListening at a community discussion
THE WORK, FROM DAY ONE
Taking ideas into action.
What I’ve brought forward, helped shape, and supported for Reading. Follow the work from the latest developments back to the start.
IN PROGRESS • INITIATED
Protections before a data center arrives
I brought forward the effort to establish data center zoning rules, pushing for protections for our neighborhoods, water, and quality of life while the proposal moves through review.
I’m working to codify a clear, consistent local process for U-Visa certification requests, with written responses and clearer expectations for applicants. This proposal is still being worked on.
I worked to bring the Welcoming City ordinance forward and helped shape its passage. This work affirms the dignity of our immigrant neighbors and sets clearer guidelines for how our city serves every resident.
I drafted and sponsored the ordinance establishing local civil penalties for possession of small amounts of marijuana, advancing a more proportionate approach to enforcement.
I brought forward Resolution 14-2025 urging Pennsylvania lawmakers to establish reasonable limits on rent increases. Council adopted the resolution unanimously. It calls for state action; it does not itself impose a local rent cap.
I sponsored and helped advance the Spanish translation of Reading’s Home Rule Charter so more residents can understand their government and participate. Council adopted the translation for language access; the English Charter remains the authoritative legal version.
I co-sponsored and supported Reading’s ghost gun ordinance and seconded the motion for passage. The measure addresses untraceable firearms and certain equipment used to manufacture them.
I established Party at the Park at Pendora Park in 2024, bringing neighbors, volunteers, and local organizations together for a free community gathering. It has grown into an annual day of resources, connection, and support for our families.
I drafted and brought forward Resolution 118-2024 urging Pennsylvania to raise its minimum wage. Council adopted it 5–0. This was a call for state action to help working families keep up with the cost of living; it did not itself change the state minimum wage.
I tried to bring forward a resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza and spoke up for residents asking Council to act. I argued that our responsibility to speak out for peace does not stop at the city line. The effort did not secure enough Council support to move forward.
I began serving Reading’s District 2 on City Council, bringing my experience in community organizing and constituent service into the work of local government.
I started Party at the Park to bring our neighbors together at Pendora Park. What began as a community gathering now connects families with school supplies, free haircuts, local organizations, and practical resources.
The event also creates space for civic education, homeownership information, youth technology help, and remembering neighbors lost to violence.
