Wasco council interviews Raya for open seat

On Friday, a special City Council meeting was held to interview candidates for the District 5 vacancy left by the resignation of former Mayor Alex Garcia. This meeting was the next step in filling the seat, and there was only one applicant: Miguel A. Raya.

On Aug. 6, the council decided to fill the vacancy by appointing an eligible elector. The council instructed staff to announce the vacancy and accept applications. The appointee will serve until the Nov. 5 General Municipal Election.

The city clerk received tbe single application from Raya.

"There won't be much suspense,".City Manager Scott Hurlbert commented prior to the meeting. "It is a chance for him to ask questions and for council clarification on the application. After, we will adjourn until Tuesday [at the regular City Council meeting] for the official vote and then be sworn in. It's a technicality at this point, but it's important to have all the steps."

Raya expressed his motivation for applying, stating, "My area is in the youth and its needs in our community. With over 20 years of experience in teaching and coaching, and my involvement in our church youth group, I am well equipped to address the necessities and lack of resources our youth have to stay out of trouble and develop into productive adults."

Raya is a teacher in the Wasco Union Elementary School District and a board member of the Wasco Recreation and Parks District. He also coaches soccer and track and field at Wasco High School, leads a youth group at his church and is a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Regarding the council, Raya said, "It's a good board. In a short amount of time, they beautified downtown, launched a new Police department and neighborhood park, and restored many of our streets in Wasco. They are moving, and I'd like to be a part of that team."

He also praised City Manager Scott Hurlbert, saying, "He's done an awesome job implementing and getting the council to see what the town's priority needs are and assembling a great team for the community's benefit. And hopefully, we have him for many more years."

Raya's vision is "to secure a safe town for everyone to enjoy, to support Wasco's economic growth, to provide resources for the youth and the elderly, and, of course, to maintain the infrastructure for future generations."

Councilmember Vincent Martinez remarked, "I have known Miguel for over 30 years. Even since we were kids, he was a leader. I know he will do an outstanding job as a council member. As a coach, educator, and important member of our community, Miguel will bring valuable insight to the city."