DOWNEY – Horacio Ortiz Jr., chair of the Downey planning commission and owner of El Pescador restaurant, is running for City Council in District 1.

The special election will take place in November.

Ortiz has lived in Downey for more than 30 years. He and his family own 15 El Pescador restaurants, including the Downey Landing location.

“I am proud to call Downey home, a city with family values, ethics and character rooted at its core,” Ortiz said. “As chairman of the Planning Commission, I have witnessed an unprecedented divide that has created instability and taken a hold of progress. I will make it a priority to unite the community that I love.”

As a planning commissioner, Ortiz notably voted against allowing Ojos Locos to open in Downey. He was the only commissioner to do so.

Ortiz said he is running on a platform “dedicated to public safety, improving quality of life, reducing homelessness and helping small businesses thrive in Downey.”

Ortiz is a board member with the Downey Rose Float Association and also volunteers with Gangs Out of Downey and Downey Kiwanis. He and his family co-founded a nonprofit that has so far funded 26 cleft palate surgeries for low-income families and their children.

The Ortiz family also funds students from low-income neighborhoods to visit the Museum of Latin Art Institute (MOLA) to give them an opportunity to experience the arts.

According to a press release, Ortiz is endorsed by Rep. Robert Garcia (CA-42), L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn, Assemblywoman Blanca Pacheco, and Mayor Pro Tem Mario Trujillo.

He is also backed by the entire Downey planning commission, including former mayor Mario A. Guerra, Carrie Uva and Miguel Duarte.

“Horacio Ortiz is known for his service-first attitude,” said Pacheco, who resigned the District 1 seat last year after being elected to the Assembly. “He is a familiar face at many community events, always serving others. Horacio will continue to improve the quality of life of all Downey residents. I’m proud to endorse him as the best candidate for my former seat on the Downey city council.”

To read Horacio’s full bio, see the list of his endorsements and learn more about his positions please visit www.HoracioOrtizforDowney.com.