OP Ed: Reflections from my first year on the Council and why public participation is key to building a stronger community (3.2.26)

Published in Paso Robles Daily News

– As I begin my second year on the Paso Robles City Council, I’m reminded that local government isn’t distant — it shapes our neighborhoods, daily routines, and the opportunities we pass to the next generation. Every decision at City Hall touches housing, jobs, community services, infrastructure, and public safety. These choices affect all of us, and how we participate matters.

I see my role as a bridge between the community and the Council. Residents share concerns and ideas with me, I share information about city decisions and processes, and I elevate issues to the City Manager and Council. Equally important, I help residents understand how to engage so their voices can be heard and influence decisions.

Too often, public meetings reflect only those who have the time to attend. Families juggling work and childcare, and young people starting out, are frequently absent. Their perspectives are essential, and I work to bring these voices into the conversation.

I’ve intentionally connected with residents beyond Council chambers — through neighborhood walkabouts, Coffee with Your City Councilmember gatherings, pizza meet-ups, informal presentations with community groups, and attending community events. These interactions allow me to learn directly from residents while helping demystify how local government works.

While Councilmembers do not direct staff, I have a role in educating staff about community concerns. I was pleased to have several staff members join me in the Uptown neighborhood to observe traffic, problematic intersections, pedestrian safety, and parking challenges firsthand. Seeing conditions on the ground and speaking with business owners added context that no report alone could provide.

Some constituent issues — curb paint refreshes, trash cleanup, and landscape improvements — may seem small, but they make a meaningful difference in daily life. Others, like affordable housing, job creation, corridor safety, and spaces for our kids, require sustained advocacy to move ideas into Council goals, priorities, and budgets.

Community participation can directly shape outcomes. One highlight was the Council’s unanimous 5-0 vote to invest in park facilities and expand field space for local youth, following strong engagement from sports parents at the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee level and Council. Another was the Food Truck policy discussion, which led to an Ad Hoc Committee to develop clear, consistent recommendations. Notably, it was also the first time we offered concurrent translation, allowing more community members to fully participate. The process was productive, respectful, and informative and was a great example of good governance.

Looking ahead, we have important work — setting Council goals and adopting our city budget, which informs work priorities for the next 2-year cycle. These are meaningful opportunities for residents to provide input and shape the city’s direction. Public engagement doesn’t require expertise in municipal code — it begins with asking questions, sharing experience, engaging, and staying informed.

I am grateful to City staff for their expertise, commitment to the City, and patience in educating their newest Councilmember. I’m grateful to my colleagues for thoughtful dialogue, and most of all, I am grateful to the residents of District 1 and Paso Robles for your trust. We have much to be proud of and much work ahead. Local government works best when we all participate — and I hope more people will take part in shaping the future of Paso Robles.