As 2024 comes to a close, so does the third consecutive term of Atascadero’s first elected female mayor, Heather Moreno. After six years of being our city’s champion, Heather is heading off to bring her thoughtful leadership to the whole of San Luis Obispo County, representing District 5 on the Board of Supervisors. Here at Atascadero News Magazine, we wanted to celebrate Heather’s years representing and being a part of Atascadero’s government, so we sat down with her and asked her some questions.     

Atascadero News Magazine: For anyone who doesn’t know, what originally brought you and your husband Mike to Atascadero in 2004?

Mayor Heather Moreno: “Mike and I moved to Atascadero in search of a better quality of life. We were drawn in by the beautiful environment, spacious rural-like neighborhoods, and the slower pace of living. What we didn’t expect was the deep sense of belonging we would discover here, making Atascadero truly feel like home.”

ANM: You spent six years on City Council before becoming mayor. Can you tell me what made you want to run for mayor during that time?

Mayor Heather Moreno: “My decision to run for mayor arose from a desire to enhance collaboration and drive positive change in our community. After navigating some challenging years, Atascadero was on an upward trajectory that I was eager to sustain for the city’s continued success. I felt I could bring a unique perspective and effective leadership to help us reach our goals.”

ANM: What was it like to be Atascadero’s first female elected mayor?

Mayor Heather Moreno: “It was a tremendous honor that highlights our community’s commitment to supporting women in leadership. It reflected the values of Atascadero, a city that began with supporting women’s equal rights and encouraging them to take on roles of influence.”

ANM: You were originally elected in 2018. What was it like to be reelected in 2020 and 2022?

Mayor Heather Moreno: “I saw my reelection as a clear indication that the community resonated with the direction we were taking as a city. It reflected the hard work of not just myself but everyone involved in our initiatives. I felt a strong sense of validation that the efforts to foster collaboration and implement meaningful change were being recognized and appreciated by the voters.” 

ANM: You’ve spent the last six years as Atascadero’s mayor. What will it be like to leave that part of your life behind?

Mayor Heather Moreno: “Leaving my role as mayor will be bittersweet. While I’m excited about new opportunities, I’ll truly miss the daily connections I’ve forged and the progress we’ve achieved together. However, Atascadero is greater than any one individual, and I have full confidence that our remarkable team will continue to build on the momentum we’ve created.”

ANM: Can you give me your top three things that you were proud to accomplish for Atascadero during your time as mayor?

Mayor Heather Moreno: “I am proud of enhancing public safety, implementing government efficiencies (we now have a task force dedicated to that very endeavor), and driving significant economic development and infrastructure projects that benefit our community. 

Crucial to what we’ve been able to achieve was ballot initiative (D-20) that we presented to voters for a 1 percent sales tax increase. This measure has allowed us to fully fund public safety, address infrastructure and equipment needs, and retain our quality employees.”

ANM: What led you to want to run for District 5 supervisor?

Mayor Heather Moreno: “I want to bring my experience and collaborative approach to the county level, addressing regional issues while continuing to prioritize community engagement and effective governance. Professionalism and respect are essential for building trust within the community and fostering a culture of cooperation. I look forward to implementing government solutions that enhance service delivery, ensuring that our county not only meets the needs of its residents but also operates efficiently and effectively.”

ANM: What was it like to have the citizens of Atascadero trust you with their city?

Mayor Heather Moreno: “It was both humbling and motivating. It inspired me to work diligently to address their needs, and I committed to honoring that trust by engaging with residents, listening to their concerns, and ensuring the direction we were moving reflected the values and aspirations of Atascaderans.” 

ANM: What would you like the residents of Atascadero to know as you leave office as mayor?

Major Heather Moreno: “Serving as Atascadero mayor has truly been the honor of a lifetime. I want the residents to know how grateful I am for their support. Together, we’ve made significant strides, and I’m excited to see Atascadero continue to thrive in the future.”

ATASCADERO NEWS MAGAZINE

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