Cruz’s Background

Why I’m running—for the City that raised me

I was raised in Sutter County by my parents and teachers, who believed that community is built one small act at a time. At Live Oak High School (Class of 2017), I presided over Key Club and led projects that cleaned up parks and supported local families. During my senior year, Mayor Lakvir Ghag generously opened a door into public service and officially became my mentor. Sitting in those meetings, I saw how decisions about streets, parks, and water touch everyday life—and how much you can accomplish when people are listened to.

That lesson stayed with me. Graduating from CSU, Chico (Class of 2024) with a degree in Public Administration has helped me excel as policy analyst in the California Department of Health Care Services. My day job is to gather facts, follow the budget, and turn complex issues into practical action. That same approach guides me in Live Oak: show up, ask clear questions, and deliver results people can see.

Over the last five years, I’ve stood with neighbors to demand clean, safe drinking water and honest communication about it. I’ve advocated for repairing our community pool and investing in parks that keep kids active and families connected. I’ve supported partnerships with county agencies and regional organizations to keep neighborhoods safe and cut red tape for local businesses.

In 2022, I lost a city council race by 61 votes, and by 2024, 921 neighbors had cast a vote for Cruz Mora. That result didn’t discourage me; it clarified the assignment. We need a City Council that answers questions plainly, spends carefully, and treats residents as partners. We need a city government that makes it easier—not harder—for families and small businesses to thrive.

I’m running for City Council to do exactly that. My priorities are straightforward:

  • Clean, affordable water backed by transparent data and a long-term plan to fix aging infrastructure.

  • Public safety through partnership, because safer communities start with collaboration and communication.

  • Parks and recreation that bring us together, including repairing the pool and developing Garden Glen Park.

  • A business-friendly city hall that welcomes investment and good jobs while protecting what makes Live Oak home.

This campaign isn’t about titles or headlines. It’s about neighbors solving problems, one by one. If that’s the Live Oak you want, I’d be honored to earn your vote—and your help.

Join the team: volunteer, donate, and make your plan to vote.