Candidate for
Council Member; City of Lemon Grove

In his first term on the City Council, George Gastil has helped lead this city through tough economic times. Our city has managed to maintain essential services while also promoting revitalization in our city center. In addition to his regular Council duties, George also serves on the East County Economic Development Council (ECEDC) and the Regional Planning Committee of the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG).

In addition to his experience on the Council, George brings the perspective of a parent, teacher, and school board member. He also brings to the table his knowledge and experience with state government.

Serving on the Lemon Grove School Board from 1998-2008, George helped the district stay healthy during two budget crises. The board cut administrative costs to devote more money to classroom teaching. The district also dramatically expanded its preschool programs and won national recognition for using technology to promote learning.

While serving as Board President in 2007, George brought school district and county officials together to discuss the idea of a new library to serve the schools and the community. These discussions led to a plan for a new joint-use library--the building currently under construction!

George teaches history at Grossmont College. He has taught college since 2000. Previously, he was a high school and middle school teacher.

From 2002-2005 George worked in the district office of State Senator Denise Moreno Ducheny. He served as the Senator's local contact person for education, health care and human services. George has worked with many state and local officials throughout the San Diego region.

An East County native, George has lived in Lemon Grove for eighteen years. He and his wife, Janet, have raised three sons in Lemon Grove.