Councilwoman Betty Guardado Named Co-Chair of Fast-Track Cities Ad Hoc Committee

PHOENIX — Councilwoman Betty Guardado is taking on a new leadership role in Phoenix’s fight to end the HIV epidemic, joining the City’s Fast-Track Cities Ad Hoc Committee as Co-Chair alongside outgoing Councilwoman Laura Pastor.

The Fast-Track Cities initiative brings together local leaders, health providers, community organizations, and advocates to strengthen the response to HIV and help ensure residents have access to prevention, testing, treatment, and care.

“I’m honored to take on this responsibility and continue the important work that Councilwomen Debra Stark and Pastor, along with so many community partners, have championed,” said Councilwoman Guardado. “This work is about making sure every Phoenician can access the care, information, and support they need with dignity and without stigma.”

A longtime labor and community advocate, Councilwoman Guardado has made expanding opportunity and ensuring working families have access to essential services a central focus of her work at City Hall. Representing District 5 and communities throughout West Phoenix, Guardado has consistently emphasized the importance of reaching residents who too often face barriers to healthcare, information, and other critical resources.

Guardado brings to the committee a community-centered approach rooted in collaboration and meeting people where they are. She will work alongside healthcare providers, advocates, community organizations, and residents to expand awareness, reduce stigma, strengthen access to prevention and treatment, and ensure Phoenix continues making progress toward ending the HIV epidemic.

“Where you live, what you earn, or what language you speak should never determine whether you can get the care you need,” Guardado added. “We have an opportunity to bring people together, reach communities that have historically been underserved, and make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Guardado will work with fellow committee members and community partners to continue advancing Phoenix’s commitment to the goals of the Fast-Track Cities initiative.

For more information, contact Zul Lopez at zul.lopez@phoenix.gov.

About Councilwoman Betty Guardado

Councilwoman Betty Guardado proudly represents Phoenix City Council District 5 and remains committed to creating opportunities for families, strengthening neighborhoods, and ensuring residents have access to quality community events and resources throughout West Phoenix.