Moreno Valley Seats Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem

The city's mayor and mayor pro tem took their seats officially following a swearing-in ceremony held at City Hall on Tuesday, Jan. 6. Mayor Jesse Molina and Mayor Pro Tem Yxstian Gutierrez were both voted by the council, each garnering a 3-2 vote, to serve in these capacities for a year term. Molina was elected to the council in 2008 and represents the city's District 1. In 2012 he won re-election for a second term. Following the recall of former Mayor Tom Owings in June 2014, Molina had served in the interim until he was voted by the council in December 2014 following the November General Election to serve as the city's mayor. After the performance of the National Anthem by the Moreno Valley Master Chorale, the swearing in ceremony began. Both Molina and Gutierrez took the oaths administered by City Clerk Jane Halstead and spoke briefly on their visions for the city. "I sit here before you once again, humbled," Molina said, thanking the council for their votes. Molina touched on the "great strides" the city has made, mentioning a balanced budget, a higher city credit rating, a higher job rate and lower crime rates. "We have achieved these positive outcomes by working together, and there's much more to be done," said Molina. He asked the council and public to "maintain a positive attitude" by working together. "With our collective hard work, positive thinking and optimistic attitude, we will achieve much this next year," he closed with thanks. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Yxstian Gutierrez also gave thanks and said he will work to fulfill the promises he made to constituents during his campaign, including working collaboratively with the council, staff and community on issues including job creation, regulation reduction for small business, improving infrastructure, support public safety and education, advocate for small business and homeowner-friendly programs and continue work with area nonprofits, among other goals. "I will champion efforts for our staff to listen to the residents’ needs," Gutierrez said. "I’m goal-oriented and as your mayor pro tem, I will get things done." Gutierrez first began his service as a councilmember when he was appointed to the Moreno Valley City Council in 2013 to represent District 4. In November's General Election he was elected by residents to serve as the District 4 representative and at the December 2014 swearing in ceremony was voted by his colleagues to serve as the mayor pro tem. Gutierrez said the interests of residents were important and encouraged the public to contact him by phone or email. "I'll be glad to meet with you," Gutierrez said. Following the ceremony city residents, staff and council members enjoyed a reception hosted by the Moreno Valley Chamber of Commerce.