Departing former City Council Member and Vice Mayor Leanne Jones Cruz was recognized by the Riverbank Council at its Oct. 8 regular meeting.

Originally appointed to the council in September 2013 and elected to a full term the next year, after taking some time off, Jones Cruz was sworn into office again, on Dec. 13, 2022, and was appointed Vice Mayor this past January. She represented District 3.

The city proclamation noted the significant contributions she has made during her service.

“Working closely with the City Council, she has been instrumental in advancing numerous vital initiatives and projects that have fostered development within the community.”

Key accomplishments during her tenure were listed and include:

• Crossroads West Commercial Groundbreaking

• Sierra House Day Use Facility Ribbon Cutting

• Costco Grand Opening

The proclamation notes that “Council Member Jones Cruz has played a crucial role in various development projects such as River Terrace (Ward Villas), Countryside II, Bruin Heights, and Diamond Bar East, in addition to the establishment of new community parks. Her commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Riverbank is evident through her advocacy and leadership.”

Cruz recently submitted her resignation, as she is moving out of the area.

“The Riverbank Council, Staff, and Community extend their gratitude for Council Member Leanne Jones Cruz’s dedication and service, and formally recognize her numerous accomplishments during her time on the City Council,” state the proclamation.

Other proclamations noted at the Oct. 8 meeting included both the Proclamation on Walk and Roll to School Day – Oct. 9, presented to Armando Nunez, Program/Grant Manager for CASA Del Rio Family Resource Center, and the Proclamation for Lights On After School, Oct. 18, also presented to Armando Nunez at CASA Del Rio.