Paso Robles, CA – Following the announcement that Mayor John Hamon will step down this December, community leader, retired Air Force officer, and former Cal Poly Vice President Bill Britton officially announced his candidacy for Mayor of Paso Robles today. Britton’s campaign launches on the heels of a massive grassroots kickoff event held last week, signaling a new chapter of independent, results-oriented leadership for the city.

The campaign launch event saw an overflow crowd of motivated volunteers and residents from every corner of the city. The energy in the room was electric as a diverse coalition of neighbors, small business people, farmers, parents, and entrepreneurs came to support Britton’s vision for the community.

“The turnout at our kickoff last week was humbling,” said Britton. “To see such a huge group of motivated volunteers ready to walk precincts and talk to their neighbors confirms what I’ve felt for a long time: Paso Robles is ready for a leader who brings people together rather than driving them apart. This isn’t just a campaign; it’s a movement of citizens who care deeply about the future of our home.”

Britton’s candidacy has immediately united a diverse group of regional leaders, showcasing the broad appeal of his independent platform:

John R. Hamon Jr., Paso Robles Mayor: “I’m proud to support and endorse Bill Britton for Mayor. He represents the next generation of leadership for the City of Paso Robles. Our community deserves a mayor who understands our values, listens to residents, and delivers results. Bill brings energy, integrity, and a clear vision to move our city forward while protecting what makes Paso Robles special.”

James Maravagila, Vice President Emeritus, Strategic Enrollment Management, Marketing Strategy: “I had the privilege of working alongside Bill as cabinet members at Cal Poly for nearly a decade. He’s a proven leader who knows how to fix what’s not working, protect what makes a community strong, and build for the future!  At a time when cities face growing complex issues, he brings background, judgment and forward thinking leadership we need in Paso Robles.”

Ian Parkinson, San Luis Obispo County Sheriff: “Public safety is the foundation of any thriving community. Bill Britton understands the challenges our law enforcement officers face and has a proven track record of supporting the men and women who keep us safe. His direct work on creating the Cyber Forensics Crime Lab has proven critical to assisting in solving many high-profile cases. I trust Bill to prioritize the security and well-being of every Paso Robles neighborhood.”

Steve Gregory, Paso Robles Mayor Pro-Tem: “I have known and worked with Bill Britton for over eight years now. He has the leadership skills, incredible experience and the know how from his extensive education and high level of management training to help lead us into the future. I am proud to support and fully endorse Bill Britton for Mayor.”

John Peschong, San Luis Obispo County Supervisor: “Bill Britton is exactly the kind of steady, experienced hand Paso Robles needs. His background in the US Air Force and his deep understanding of our regional economy make him the clear choice to lead. Bill doesn’t just talk about problems; he will solve them with common sense and integrity.”

Dee Lacy, Past school board member and Cuesta College trustee: “I am proud to support Bill Britton for mayor. We are fortunate to have someone of his caliber dedicated to serving our local government. I encourage everyone to explore his extensive biography on his website; I believe you’ll see, as I do, that he is the ideal candidate to lead Paso Robles.”

Josh Biven, Paso Robles Resident and CEO of Bivin Advisors: “Bill brings integrity, discipline, and a proven ability to solve complex problems. I trust him to lead with accountability and put our community first.”

Jordan Cunningham, Former State Assemblyman: “I’ve seen firsthand Bill’s commitment to our community and his ability to work across the aisle to get things done. He is a true independent who isn’t beholden to special interests.” 

The Britton campaign is drawing significant praise from voices across the political spectrum who emphasize his collaborative nature.

Britton, who most recently served as a Vice President at Cal Poly and has been a driving force behind the Paso Robles Air & Space Port initiative, plans to spend the coming months engaging directly with residents through community listening tours and informal neighborhood conversations.

For more information on Bill Britton’s background and his vision for the city, please visit www.bill4pasorobles.com.

###