For almost 22 years, Bob Orach has brought what he calls a businessman's perspective to the Santa Maria City Council.

He said that means maintaining a balanced city budget, wise spending, and providing residents the best services possible - such as police and fire protection.

“It's the taxpayers money,” Orach said. “We do what we can to preserve those dollars.”

In seeking another term, he hopes to continue to be one of the leaders who shapes the city's future.

“I feel like I've helped steer the city in a positive direction,” he said.

One of the biggest challenges the city faces is encouraging community participation and involvement in city government, he said.

“We need to bring the community together for input,” he said.

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As a member of the All-America City Committee, he has been a part of founding the new Neighborhood Block Captain Program to develop community participation in city government and address community needs and issues. It will be the duty of a block captain to serve as a “go-to person” for questions on community issues and to help people find city services.

The Downtown Specific Plan, a proposal to create a pedestrian- and destination-oriented downtown area, is one of the major developments that Orach said will need the support of property owners, business owners and the community to be a success.

He said a “vibrant” downtown will attract new businesses, grow existing businesses, and bring in new residents. The new Santa Maria Public Library and a proposed transit center project at the southeast corner of East Boone and South Miller streets are also a part of the downtown revitalization, he said.

A successful re-modeling of the Town Center mall is one of his goals. Development of industrial and manufacturing businesses near the airport is another.

While having a vision and community support is important, he said, the “will and fortitude” to make them happen is the most important component.

Orach, 65, currently is serving as mayor pro tem, a position that rotates among the four council members.

Orach was first elected to the council in 1986 and last re-elected in 2004. He has lived in Santa Maria for 32 years.

He holds a bachelor's degree in business from the University of Arizona, and was most recently business development officer at Community West Bank, and previously resources development manager for the United Way of the Central Coast.

Julian J. Ramos can be reached at 739-2219 or at jramos@santamariatimes.com.

October 14, 2008