City of San Juan Bautista City Council Councilmember César E. Flores

Shortly after he was elected to the City Council, César E. Flores was appointed mayor in 2018 after the untimely death of Mayor Jim West. At the time he told SanBenito.com, “I’m excited, it’s a big job. There’s a lot of things that need to be done, and I’m up for the challenge.” While focusing on such issues as water, streets and safety, Flores has continued his career in the arts, as a core member and veteran of El Teatro Campesino for more than 40 years. He still gains inspiration from his passion for theater. “The arts has the power to break artificial barriers, especially for youth,” he told BenitoLink.

First elected: Nov. 6, 2018

Alma mater: California State University, Fullerton (bachelor’s degree, ethnic studies)

Notable quote: “I see every day as an adventure. I’ve got another 20 years to do what I do and then I go over to the other side and see what’s happening there.” (Source: BenitoLink.com)