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By Francisco Ramirez | March 27, 2025

Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about action. As a former mayor of Hanford, I’ve seen firsthand how elected officials shape our community. Today’s City Council blends experience with fresh perspectives, each member bringing unique strengths. Here’s my assessment of where we stand—and where we’re headed.

Vice Mayor Travis Paden: Growth Through Accountability
Paden’s tenure as mayor will always include the controversial million-dollar Helena Chemical settlement—a decision that taught a hard lesson about leadership consequences. But true leaders evolve. Now serving as Vice Mayor, he’s demonstrating valuable growth as an independent thinker. While less publicly visible than during his mayoral years, his ability to bridge divides shows maturing statesmanship.

Councilman Mark Kairis: Conviction Over Popularity
Kairis remains one of our most principled council members. His unwavering stance on the roundabout project—despite its unpopularity—proves he governs by conviction, not polls. That very integrity may have cost him the mayoral position, but Hanford needs this kind of backbone. His active community engagement and policy focus set the standard for what true public service looks like.

Mayor Lou Martinez: Straight Talk in Action
I’ve known Martinez since I was young—he’s been a fixture in our community for decades. We share the same no-nonsense approach—telling hard truths even when it’s unpopular. Since assuming leadership, he’s brought this same authenticity to the mayor’s role. His leadership style proves that real progress often requires ruffling feathers. Under his guidance this year, I believe Hanford will continue moving forward.

The New Generation of Leadership

Councilwoman Nancy Howze represents exactly the fresh perspective Hanford needs. Her business background and strategic networking skills are already making an impact. Too often, cities are governed by people who’ve never met payroll or balanced a budget. Howze’s private sector experience gives her the practical mindset we desperately need in local government.

Councilwoman Kimber Regan is the disruptor Hanford deserves. A successful real estate professional with the financial independence to speak freely, she’s already challenging wasteful spending and demanding accountability. Yes, she’s making waves—but that’s precisely what effective leaders do. I predict Kimber will become one of Hanford’s most transformative mayors in coming years. Her recent work facilitating the Superior Dairy transition proves she has both the vision and execution skills to make lasting change.

Looking Ahead
With the recent sales tax measure passing and this balanced council team in place, Hanford stands at a promising crossroads. Do I agree with every decision? No. But having sat in those chairs, I understand the tremendous pressure and responsibility these leaders carry. My message to the council: Stay bold. Stay authentic. And to our community: Engage constructively, hold leaders accountable, but recognize governing requires tough choices. The pieces are in place for real progress—now we must all do our part to build Hanford’s future together.