Note: As part of The Sentinel’s 2022 coverage of local elections, we have asked a series of seven identical questions to each of the candidates running for a seat on the Citrus Heights City Council. The questions are designed to give each of the candidates an opportunity to introduce themselves to the community and give voters an opportunity to learn more about each candidate’s life and background. Candidates replied via email, and those who responded to each question in less than 100 words have their answers published word-for-word.
Porsche Middleton, District 5
Why are you running for City Council? Currently, I serve as Mayor of Citrus Heights and have been on the council for the last four years. Working with my colleagues, we have improved our roads, strengthened public safety, and supported our business community. I am running for re-election to continue moving our city forward.
What are two aspects you like most about living in Citrus Heights?
Our city is one of the region’s most affordable places to live. It remains a close-knit community due to the engagement of our Neighborhood Associations and numerous nonprofit organizations. We are fortunate to have diverse and engaged business districts providing residents with impactful events and fantastic food options.
What are the top two things you’d like to change/improve in Citrus Heights if any?
Bringing back our Problem-Oriented Policing model is something that I believe would have a significant impact on community safety. Having officers dedicated to interacting with the community is a proven model for reducing crime and the fear of crime.
What are two books that have had the most influence on your life, and why/how?
I read a lot and the books that recently impacted me are Profiles of Courage by John F. Kennedy and Leadership Secrets from the Bible by Lorin Woolfe. Both books have themes around the humble courage, and strong faith needed to be an effective leader, especially during times of change or difficulty.
What are three key principles that would guide your votes on the council?
Growing up in a military family, I have fond memories of my dad, SGM Rayford, asking three questions when I had to make a decision. Is it necessary? Does the solution fit the problem? Can you stand by your decision even if many do not agree with you? This not only works for guiding my votes at council meetings, but I also use it in my life whenever I make decisions.
What kind of volunteer work have you done for charities, churches, or service organizations in the community?
My roots in community service and giving to those in need began in childhood, and it is something that my husband and I teach our two boys. We have participated in numerous projects, including leadership roles in Rotary and Kiwanis. We have organized food drives for our local food closet, participated in our church’s community events, and handed out school supplies, backpacks, and free haircuts to students in our city.
City Council members are paid a small monthly stipend of $600 for their service. If elected, how do you plan to balance work life elsewhere with council responsibilities?
I have been balancing work, the council, and my family for four years. There are always challenges to maintaining that balance, and I recognize the importance of each of these in my life. I am blessed to have a strong support system that makes doing this more manageable.
Key endorsements: Jeannie Bruins (Councilmember), Roberta MacGlashan (fmr. Councilmember and ret. Supervisor), and Doug Ose (ret. U.S. Congressman).
Key Donors: “I am also proud to have support from Sacramento Area Firefighters and the Sacramento Association of Realtors.”
Campaign website: www.porschemiddleton.com
*Editor’s note: Porsche Middleton and Natalee Price are both running for District 5. See Price’s profile here: Meet Natalie Price, candidate for Citrus Heights Council District 5. To read about candidates running in District 2 and District 4, click here.
