Antonio Baciu Sets Sights on Council Seat

Antonio Baciu’s Campaign Message is ‘Keep Cathedral City Moving Forward’

CATHEDRAL CITY — Antonio Baciu, a 19-year-resident of this community, is running for City Council to represent District, which includes the Panorama, La Pasada, Verano, Park David, and Rio Vista (East) neighborhoods.

He already snagged the endorsements of Riverside County District 4 Supervisor V. Manuel Perez, Mayor Raymond Gregory and Councilmember Nancy Ross.

Though he has a high profile in the community, he’s been having some fun educating residents on how to pronounce his name.

Baciu first entered public community conversations six years ago when he began working to bring free yoga classes to the city’s newly built Community Amphitheater. That program recently celebrated its fifth year, with thousands of residents participating in the free one-hour classes.

It was the spark that inspired him to become more involved in the community. Since then, he has served as Vice Chair of the Parks and Community Events Commission and currently serves on the City’s Finance Advisory Committee. In September, he will begin his final year on the PACE Commission,

“I am proud of the legacy of service and accomplishments I will leave behind,” Baciu said in a statement. “My next goal is to be elected to the City Council in November. As someone who is fully retired, my focus will be entirely on serving the residents of District 5 and Cathedral City. I currently dedicate 20 to 40 hours each week as an unpaid Commissioner, and I know that level of commitment is only possible because public service is my priority and this community is my only job.”

His priorities include creating housing opportunities for residents at all income levels; maintaining strong public safety services; supporting Measure W investments in police, fire, roads, and infrastructure; and ensuring fiscal responsibility as the city continues to grow.

“I will work to attract new businesses, support existing local businesses, and help unlock the tremendous potential of (the) city’s more than 5,000 acres of undeveloped land north of Interstate 10,” he said in a statement.”

He also said he will continue advocating for animal welfare through spay and neuter programs, vaccination clinics, adoption. He said he also supports greater community engagement through programs like “Council on Your Corner,” expanded community events, and partnerships with local nonprofits.

In addition, Baciu said he supports reasonable term limits for councilmembers and will work toward long-term projects that leave a lasting legacy for future generations, including the Ramon Road Bridge, Vista Chino Bridge, North City development, a multi-generational community center, commuter rail opportunities, and more parks, trees, and green spaces.

“Together, we can continue to keep Cathedral City moving forward.”

Baciu lives with his husband of 27 years and their dogs.