The following is from an email response to some interview questions with new Calimesa Councilmember Edgar Garcia. Some sections have been edited for grammar or brevity.
Why did you run for city council?
Garcia: I decided to run for city council because I believe our community deserves a champion — someone who is relentless in advocating for the resources and opportunities we need to thrive. Throughout my life, I’ve seen the power of service and the profound impact it has on individuals and families. Whether volunteering with local churches, working within our schools, or engaging with community organizations, giving back has always been a core part of who I am. But my decision to step into leadership goes beyond a desire to serve — it is rooted in my personal journey. Growing up, my family faced significant challenges. My late father, a hardworking and determined man who built skyscrapers and fire trucks for a living, taught me lessons that have guided me every step of the way. His words still echo in my heart: “No matter the hardship, never give up. Keep moving forward — this is only temporary.” He showed me that resilience, hard work and a spirit of service could overcome even the toughest obstacles. That lesson became my foundation. From an early age, I understood the importance of access to basic services like healthcare, education and housing. I saw how these resources can change lives — how they can lift people out of struggle and into possibility. Those experiences ignited in me a passion to ensure that no one in our community has to endure the hardships my family once faced. As a lifelong volunteer and advocate, I’ve dedicated myself to creating a brighter future for those around me. Running for city council was not just a step — it was a calling. It was my way of saying, “Our community deserves better, and I will fight for every one of you.”
What are your priorities or goals going forward?
Garcia: Priorities and Goals for Calimesa: As we look ahead, my vision for Calimesa is clear: to create a thriving, inclusive community that empowers every individual — youth, families and seniors alike — to succeed and live fulfilling lives. This vision is not just about today but about building a brighter, more prosperous future for generations to come. At the heart of my priorities is the belief that access to quality resources transforms lives and inspires hope. My foremost goal is to expand these resources, not only for Calimesa but for our neighboring cities, fostering a spirit of collaboration and shared growth.
Investing in Our Youth: Our young people are the future of this community. By creating and expanding programs that support their development, we can inspire them to dream big and achieve even bigger. Partnering with our schools, colleges and universities, I envision a city where every student — whether in elementary school, high school or higher education — has access to the tools, mentorship and opportunities they need to excel. Imagine a future where our youth grow into doctors, engineers, educators and innovators, contributing their talents right here in our community. That is the future I want for Calimesa.
Strengthening Community Engagement: Civic engagement is the foundation of a vibrant and inclusive city. I am committed to creating platforms for every resident’s voice to be heard and ensuring that engagement drives decision-making. Enhancing Access to Health Care and Wellness Health Care is not a luxury — it is a right. Bringing medical centers, hospitals and wellness facilities to Calimesa will not only improve health outcomes but also plant the seeds of economic growth. These institutions will create good-paying jobs, attract skilled professionals and inspire our children to pursue careers in healthcare, technology and administration.
Building a Stronger Community for Families and Seniors: Families and seniors are the backbone of our community. By ensuring access to essential resources — whether housing, education, or recreation — we can create a city where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can thrive.
Collaboration for a Prosperous Future: No city can thrive in isolation. By working closely with neighboring cities, local businesses and community leaders, we can bring transformative resources to our region. Collaboration is the key to shared prosperity, and together, we can make Calimesa a model for growth, innovation and opportunity.
A Vision of Hope and Progress: At the core of my vision for Calimesa is a simple truth: access to resources changes lives. Whether it’s education, health care or professional opportunities, these are the building blocks of a prosperous and forward-thinking community.
Can you describe some of your history?
Garcia: I was born in Huntington Park and raised in Los Angeles County, where my family’s journey was one of perseverance and resilience. Life presented its challenges, but my father’s unwavering belief in a better future instilled in me the values of hard work, determination and hope. I vividly remember the joy and relief when he finally found a home for our family — a moment that symbolized the triumph of perseverance and the power of a shared dream. Years later, I moved to Moreno Valley in Riverside County, where I continued to witness the strength of community and the profound impact of connection. Three years ago, I found my way to Calimesa, a city that immediately felt like home. Its natural beauty, open spaces and strong sense of community reminded me of the values my father cherished and passed down to me: family, resilience and the importance of building something lasting and meaningful. Calimesa embodies everything I believe in — a place where neighbors support one another, families thrive and individuals come together to shape a brighter future. I am inspired every day by the people of this city, who work tirelessly to ensure it remains a place of opportunity, connection and growth.
In your opinion, what are the city’s strengths?
Garcia: In my opinion, Calimesa’s greatest strengths lie in its people and the strong sense of community that binds the city together. The city thrives because of the unwavering dedication of its residents, public servants and volunteers. Our public works, city planning teams and first responders play a vital role in ensuring the city runs smoothly, and their commitment helps maintain the safety and well-being of all residents. These teams, alongside devoted volunteers, are the backbone of Calimesa, and it is through their collaborative efforts that we are able to achieve progress and foster a welcoming environment for all.
What do you think it currently needs or what could be improved in the near future?
Garcia: As we stand at the crossroads of growth and opportunity, we must look toward the future with a clear vision — one that ensures Calimesa remains a place where families thrive, businesses grow and our community flourishes for generations to come. Our city has always been strong because of its people — their resilience, their dedication and their unwavering commitment to one another. But as we grow, it is essential that we invest in the very foundation of our success: our infrastructure. The decisions we make today will shape the city of tomorrow. First and foremost, we must prioritize long-term planning. Calimesa’s downtown area, the heart of our city, holds untapped potential. Revitalizing this area will create a vibrant hub for business and commerce, bringing new opportunities for our residents and attracting visitors. This effort will also ensure that our small-town charm remains while embracing the opportunities that come with growth.
What do you currently envision for the future of the city of Calimesa? What gets you excited about serving on the council for the city of Calimesa?
Garcia: As I look ahead to the future of Calimesa, I am filled with excitement and hope. I envision a city that is vibrant, connected and full of opportunity — one where our parks are lush, our trails are scenic and our local businesses are thriving. I see a community that has accessible medical facilities and a state of-the-art community center, a place where people of all ages can come together to learn, grow and create. At the heart of my vision is a commitment to ensuring that Calimesa is a place where everyone, regardless of age or ability, can thrive. Our children are the architects of tomorrow. It is our responsibility to provide them with the resources, inspiration and opportunities they need to succeed. We will focus on career pathways, job opportunities and educational initiatives that empower young leaders to give back to their community. But as we plan for our city’s future, we must also ensure that we create inclusive spaces for everyone. This includes making sure that individuals with disabilities have access to the resources and opportunities they need to live full, independent lives. We must remember that the investments we make today — whether in parks, health care, education or community services — are not just for now, but for the future.
