SANTA PAUL (California) TIMES March 15, 2006
Farmworker monument discussed, committee formed The Council agreed at a February meeting to participation on an ad hoc committee to address the creation of a monument to farmworkers at the suggestion of Councilman Gabino Aguirre and a private citizen. Aguirre said that the creation of such a monument has been discussed at several community meetings. “Ag has been and continues to be one of the primary industries in Santa Paula and Ventura County and a significant portion of our community has that experience as part of their legacy,” said Aguirre who said such a contribution should be acknowledged and honored. “For many years I have felt that our community owes some kind of recognition to the men and women who have worked in the fields and are working there today,” Santa Paula resident Albino Pineda told the Council. Farmworkers not only contribute to the economy but “much of the food that comes to our tables” is the result of their hard labor he noted. Pineda presented renderings of a possible monument featuring two farm laborers between the rising sun. A monument could even have a feature naming those city residents who worked in ag Pineda added. Ray Pineda said it would be a great honor to farm workers if such a monument was approved and created. Councilmembers discussed various aspects of such a monument including size and design. Mayor Rick Cook noted that many area families and their relatives including his own worked in area agriculture. “This type of monument is well-deserved in this community...that’s what has attached everyone here,” but he questioned the cost and source of funding. “I have $50,000 available to get it started,” noted Albino Pineda. Aguirre said that a committee from various areas of the community be formed: “We would look at concepts like this, work with the community develop perhaps a clearer vision” for design and fundraising efforts that could require $100,000. The council would have to offer support to make the monument a reality he noted. Councilman John Procter volunteered for the ad hoc committee noting that monument placement would have to be determined. “I have an issue with monuments,” said Vice Mayor Ray Luna. He has suggested in the past that a monument should be created for city native Jim Colborn, a noted baseball pitcher and coach. Luna suggested that the city might create a “monument park” where the St. Francis Dam statute stands and a floating granite ball is being placed. “I’m also all for naming or putting in a monument” of the late Chino Valdes, who Luna said “fed, clothed and lent money to farm workers when no one else would...” He suggested that city staff do further study on the issue and report back. “The concept of a monument is a good idea,” but it is critical that an architect be involved said Councilwoman Mary Ann Krause. “I would hate to see us get into a monument that is terribly expensive,” paid by through fundraising when housing and services for farmworkers remains an issue, she added. “Keep in mind some human needs are not being met right now...” The Council did agree that Aguirre and Procter should represent the city on a monument ad hoc committee.
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