It’s pretty special to have been born, grown up and lived in Arroyo Grande for most of my life. In a large family with nine kids get-togethers often revolved around memories and our years traversing these local streets, creeks and fields. We all attended local schools, which for me meant Harloe Elementary, Paulding Junior High and AGHS where I graduated in 1983. In my youth in experienced incredible teachers, met dedicated community leaders and was influenced by many adult volunteers that coached sports, mentored me in scouting, or led many other activities in what culminated to be my belief of what a “community” was all about.
After graduation I left AG to attend Fresno State where I earned a degree in Criminology. Fresno provided me with positive experiences that helped define the start of my adult life, meet my wife Tina (married 28 years), and start my career in law enforcement with the Fresno Police Department. These experiences set the stage that allowed me to return to the central coast and become employed with the San Luis Obispo Police Department. Having the chance to return to this area was a surprising opportunity so early in our lives. We stretched the budget and bought a “fixer upper” house in Arroyo Grande and began raising a family of our own. Who wouldn’t want the same for their own children? It’s been 26 years now.
Both of our boys, Casey (24), and Cameron (20), have had the opportunity to experience the connection associated with growing up in what is now our shared hometown. They have successfully traversed the same AG schools and engaged in many experiences that have shaped their positive relationship with the people and places in this area. As children they would often grumble about running into people we know. As their parents, we are now often running into people they know. Now that we are all adults the appreciation of this Arroyo Grande connection, it has come full circle.
Public service has always been my calling. Most of my career in law enforcement centered on various assignments within the San Luis Obispo Police Department. I ultimately promoted to the rank of Captain and retired from that position in 2016. My career was challenging and provided me with valuable skills such as, engaging citizens, developing employees, reviewing budgets, managing projects and being heavily involved in the day to day operations of city government. Accountability, trust and compassion were frequently required of me. I know the business of working well with others and most of my successes were dependent on collaboration and mutual respect.
My public service career did not stop my desire to participate in volunteer service directed specifically to my hometown. For over two decades I’ve coached youth sports, was an adult leader in Cub and Boy Scouting and served on a variety of Arroyo Grande committees such as the AG Parks and Recreation Commission, the Arroyo Grande ARC, the Lucia Mar USD Measure I Citizen Oversite Committee, the Harvest Festival organization committee and was a co-chair of the successful Measure A bond to support aging facilities at AGHS. Now, I have an opportunity to become a City Council member and give back in another way.
My attachment to this community is strengthened by our rich history. It’s an understanding that many came before us, cared about our existence, and tried to make the best choices possible for our current and future shared community successes. These people have set the stage for my motivation. My desire to run for City Council is not a result of “what’s wrong with our city”, it has everything to do with, “what’s right with our city”. I sincerely believe local government is the truest form of democracy where we as individuals should engage, create ideas, solve problems, plan for a bright future and have a positive impact on others.
I’d appreciate your support as we work together to enhance our shared community. Should you have any questions please contact me by email at contact@keithstorton4AG.org or phone at 805-471-6599.
CommUNITY Counts!
Keith
