Mayor Owings, Mayor Pro Tem Baca Sworn In

Moreno Valley swore in its mayor and mayor pro tem in a ceremony held Tuesday, June 7, at City Hall. Mayor Tom Owings, who was elected to a one year term in 2012, was sworn in for a second one year term. Victoria Baca, who oversees the city's District 5, was sworn in as mayor pro tem, making history as the first Hispanic woman to serve in this position in Moreno Valley. Supporters and opponents of the current city council filled City Hall for the ceremony and Mayor Owings reviewed accomplishments made in 2013 and his vision for the coming year. "A year ago I said to you, 'We need new jobs, but our work to create those jobs must be grounded in a balanced budget.' I am proud to report success on both fronts," Owings said. He identified the main goals of the last year: • Balancing the City's budget for two years; • Attracting companies like Aldi Foods, Amazon and Deckers Outdoor to help create over 2,000 jobs; • Partnering in a public-private relationship to restore seven day service to the Library, tripling the book budget and saving taxpayers $1.3 million over the course of the contract. Owings also identified four priorities of the next year: • Continuing to create jobs for Moreno Valley citizens; • Work to continue educating the city's youth; • Expand opportunity for all residents through a stimulated city economy; • Provide timely, reliable and cost-effective services. Baca announced her plans to continue a cooperative effort with Box Springs Mutual Company to secure $15 to ensure a reliable water delivery system for that area.