Will Ernesto Gutierrez Seek Third Term?

Ernesto Gutierrez Played Cards Close to His Vest on Seeking Third Term

CATHEDRAL CITY — Two-term City Councilmember Raymond Gregory announced in April he was not seeking re-election, but what about Ernesto Gutierrez, who is currently serving as mayor pro tem? He and Gregory were elected the same year.

As is his style, Gutierrez has played his cards close to the vest and dodged the question whenever he was asked— until now.

Gutierrez will seek a third term to represent District 4. With Gregory’s exit, former City Councilmember Mark Carnevale’s passing, and longtime City Manager Charlie McClendon’s retirement, Gutierrez is the senior member on the Council and the one with the most institutional knowledge.

Gutierrez was elected in November 2018. He is a well-known community leader with an extensive and diverse business background. Ernesto is a community activist and a successful businessman. He is employed as a real estate broker, with over 30 years of experience as a builder and real estate investor by trade.  He obtained his mortgage broker’s license and is the former owner and operator of Tortilla’s Restaurant, located in Cathedral City.

During his first two terms, Gutierrez focused on public safety. That remains an interest for him, but he wants to expand on that.

Gutierrez told Uken Report that he wants to be part of one of the city’s largest investments — a Community Recreation Center, which is included in the five-year strategic plan. Council has narrowed the discussion to four sites for further analysis but is open to other options.

“With my background in business and real estate, I think I can really help,” he said,

Gutierrez also said that he wants to help ensure that the city “has a clear vision for the vacant land across from City Hall.” Again, he said, his background in real estate will be an asset.

He toyed with the idea of stepping away but couldn’t bring himself to do it at what he described is an “extremely important time.”

If he is successful in his re-election bid, Gutierrez will rotate into the mayor’s seat in December.