On Dec. 9, I had the profound honor of being sworn in as Mayor of Watsonville.
Standing before community leaders, public servants, and neighbors that evening, I felt a deep sense of gratitude and responsibility.
Watsonville is a city defined by service, resilience, and possibility, and I am humbled to serve at a moment when so much opportunity lies ahead.
As we look toward 2026, my priorities as Mayor are clear. They include economic growth and revitalization, strong, reliable infrastructure, vibrant parks and public spaces, and a renewed focus on our community’s civic health.
Civic health is not an abstract concept. In the 2020 National Civic Health Index, it is defined as the ways residents participate in activities that strengthen wellbeing, build trust, help one another, stay informed, engage in public dialogue, volunteer, and work together to solve shared social and economic challenges. Simply put, civic health reflects how we show up for one another and for the place we call home.
That spirit of service was on full display on the night I was sworn in.
Nonprofit leaders, local elected officials, members of the judiciary and legal community, trustees, City department heads, and council members filled the room. Each person there has dedicated part of their life to serving others, and that collective commitment inspires my hopes for Watsonville in the year ahead.
Make no mistake, there is so much to hope for in 2026. Watsonville is unified in its message and its purpose. We stand ready to uplift our hardworking immigrant community, pursue real solutions for affordable housing, and continue promoting agriculture, economic development, and small businesses that form the backbone of our local economy. I am calling on leaders across our city to join me in this work, to continue serving with the tenacity and grit that define Watsonville.
In 2026, we will intentionally highlight and celebrate organizations and individuals who strengthen our civic health. This includes increasing voter registration and participation, promoting public health, expanding recreation opportunities, and supporting economic vitality. These efforts are deeply connected and essential to a thriving community.
We also have important projects on the horizon. Thanks to American Rescue Plan funding, Watsonville will revitalize and reopen its crown jewel, Ramsay Park, creating a renewed space for families and neighbors to gather.
We will refurbish our historic City Plaza and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the birth of our nation. We will also begin setting a long-term vision for our city through the Watsonville 2050 General Plan, shaping how our community grows and evolves for decades to come.
None of this work happens alone. I am grateful to my fellow councilmembers, each of whom embodies public service and understands the responsibility that comes with it. I also extend my thanks to colleagues from the District Attorney’s Office for their continued support and dedication to serving our community.
Finally, I want to thank my family, especially my husband, Ray. When one person commits to public service, their family serves as well. Since joining the City Council in 2022, I have become a mother twice, and that experience has deepened my commitment to building a strong future for the next generation.
Let us continue to serve, engage, and care for one another as we move Watsonville forward.
Safe and Happy Holiday season to all!
