Samantha Rodriguez is the newest Rohnert Park city council member. She was appointed Tuesday. The council selected her from among three finalists who applied to fill the seat of departing Vice Mayor, Willy Linares. 

  

The term will expire once results from November's election are certified.

 

Linares made a strong case for Rodriguez to assume the office.

 

"She proved to me that she has the desire, education, values, life experiences and the unique perspective on how to advocate for all our residents of Rohnert Park. I believe she shares the value of what the people of Rohnert Park voted for when they elected me. Today we all have, on this dais, the opportunity to promote a well qualified Latina to a leadership position, and I've said it many times, the city council should reflect its constituents and we have seen that we are better when it does. So, Samantha has my support and I hope she'll have the support of this council as well."

 

Youth sports coach and former candidate David Soldavini, who was bested by Linares in the last election, was favored by some council members initially, though Linares' wide victory margin in that race curbed enthusiasm. 

 

Educator Sara Jordan, who pledged to care-take the seat and not seek a full term in November, withdrew her candidacy.