In his campaign materials, Leo Trujillo says his philosophy is simple: “Do what is right for the people of Santa Maria.”

As he seeks another term on the City Council in the Nov. 4 election, Trujillo, a two-term councilman, said the All-America City is at a threshold.

“We have good things going,” he said. “I want to contribute more to that.”

Trujillo, 74, was first elected to the council in 2000 and was re-elected in 2004. He is the city's representative to and the chairman of the Central Coast Water Authority Board of Directors. He holds a business administration degree from Benedictine College in Atchison, Kan., and a master's degree in business from George Washington University. He also served in the U.S. Navy.

One of his priorities, if re-elected, would be redevelopment of the Town Center mall and downtown. A proposal that would break the downtown area into five districts, pushing each to develop a distinct architectural style with varying land-use designations and parking requirements, is a step in that direction, he said.

Bordered by Fesler Street to the north, Miller Street to the east, Morrison Street to the south and Pine Street to the west, the Downtown Specific Plan calls for a pedestrian- and destination-oriented area covering about 50 square blocks and roughly 268 acres centered on Main Street and Broadway.

A successful Downtown Specific Plan is critical to the city's future as it is “the foundation of things to come,” Trujillo said.

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Trujillo also sees a need for growth in high-paying jobs, like those in aerospace and the computer industry. He said the city's challenges include having adequate affordable housing, schools and jobs while keeping public safety a top priority.

“People have to feel safe at their homes, jobs and schools,” he said.

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

October 15, 2008