A childhood fall sparked a rise to Buckeye’s District 2

For Councilman Jamaine Berry, serving Buckeye’s District 2 isn’t just a political role, it’s personal.

Driving through Old Town Buckeye, Berry pointed out childhood landmarks, family homes and public spaces now targeted for community renewal. A fourth-generation Buckeye resident, Berry was raised in the historically Black Buckeye neighborhood. He still remembers the exact moment he decided to enter public service, after falling off his bike on a sidewalk-less street and asking his father who was responsible.

“He told me, ‘City council makes those decisions,’” Berry recalled. “And I said, ‘Then I want to be on city council someday.’”

Elected in December, Berry represents a district that includes downtown Buckeye and stretches toward Gila Bend. Though new to the seat, his focus is clear: equitable development, beautification, and giving historically overlooked neighborhoods a voice.

“Love Councilman Berry! We are blessed to have him in District 2!” said Deanna Moreno, a longtime resident.

Among his early efforts

Public safety and lighting. Responding to residents’ concerns about dark streets, Berry helped push forward a rollout of solar-powered streetlights. He noted that neighbors are encouraged to give input about where lights are placed.

Youth art initiative. Berry is seeking to partner with the Buckeye Union High School District's art programs to decorate utility boxes throughout downtown with student artwork. “It gives kids ownership of their city and makes downtown more inviting,” he said.

Economic incentives. To bring businesses back to the historic downtown core, Berry is advocating for a “no-impact-fee zone” to reduce startup costs for restaurants and shops. He said he hopes to attract anchor establishments like a Texas Roadhouse or similar draw.

Berry’s mother was born in the former Buckeye hospital, a modest refurbished two-story building that still stands. His grandmother’s blue house still belongs to the family. And the basketball court where he grew up is steps away from where he now serves.

“My house wasn’t even in District 2 at first, so I wasn’t going to run,” Berry said. “But once the redistricting brought me in, I knew I had to. This is where I can make the biggest impact.”

Though he acknowledges that government moves slowly, Berry says he's focused on steady change, one sidewalk, streetlight or mural at a time.

“I'm not doing this for credit,” he said. “I'm doing it to help the community.”