MONTEBELLO–The Armenian National Committee of America- San Gabriel Valley chapter announced its endorsement of Art Barajas and Vivian Romero for the Montebello City Council elections on November 5 Councilmember Barajas is an incumbent and Romero is running for a first term.
ANCA-SGV Chairman Viken Pakradouni stated that “the ANCA-SGV is convinced that the election of Ms. Romero and the re-election of Mr. Barajas is in the best interest of the Armenian-American community in Montebello. As experienced public servants, these two candidates will surely represent our community values to the best of their abilities.”
Councilmember Art Barajas is an incumbent running for re-election. Born and raised in the Montebello community, Barajas is currently a business owner in the community. Throughout his years of service, he has demonstrated a strong track record in recognizing issues of importance to the Armenian-American community of Montebello. Pakradouni stated: “Councilmember Barajas was instrumental in securing Montebello’s donation of a fire truck to Artsakh and we anticipate his future cooperation in similar initiatives that will be presented to the Council during the coming term.”
Vivian Romero is a musician and community activist who is running for her first term in office. Also a Montebello native, Ms. Romero brings forth innovative and creative approaches to solving the community’s issues. Recently, she initiated the renovation of a local park and the creation of a veteran’s memorial in the park.
Romero has served as a commissioner on the City of Montebello Parks and Recreation Commission. She was also the campaign manager for Montebello Councilmember Jack Hadjinian during his successful run for a council seat in 2011.
On September 26, the ANCA-SGV hosted a candidates’ forum at the Montebello Armenian Center. Over 100 members of the local community attended.
“Art Barajas and Vivian Romero distinguished themselves during the forum by expressing their plans for how the City of Montebello should address the issues facing the City” stated Ara Malazian who moderated the forum for the ANCA-SGV.
Members of the ANCA-SGV, Armenian Relief Society Nayiri Chapters and students from the Armenian Mesrobian School have already volunteered for phone-banking and walked precincts for both of the candidates. The ANCA-SGV will also be participating in election-day activities aimed at getting out the Armenian-American vote for both candidates.
There are currently seven candidates running for the three open seats on the Montebello City Council. Elections are on November 5, 2013. The ANCA-SGV encourages all Montebello residents to cast their ballots during this important election.