East Palo Alto Councilmember Carlos Romero Takes on ABAG Vice Presidency to Address Regional Challenges

Carlos Romero Elected Vice President of ABAG

Carlos Romero, a noteworthy figure in East Palo Alto, has recently been elected as the vice president of the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG). This election was announced in January 2025, and Romero is set to hold the position until December 31, 2025. He succeeds Jesse Arreguín, the former mayor of Berkeley, who transitioned to the California State Senate following his election.

Romero has expressed enthusiasm about his new role within ABAG, stating, “I look forward to continuing to work with my ABAG colleagues in this leadership role as we navigate the coming months.” He emphasizes the importance of collaboration in tackling the pressing issues faced by the region, particularly those around housing, transportation, and environmental sustainability.

Born in San Jose and having roots in Guadalajara, Mexico, Romero's academic journey led him to Stanford University where he studied international relations and economics. His commitment to the community began during his university years when he tutored local youths in East Palo Alto and played a pivotal role as a community organizer during the city’s incorporation campaign.

Romero first took office in the East Palo Alto City Council in 2008 and served as mayor twice, in 2011 and 2021. His extensive experience includes working as a housing development and land use consultant, showcasing his dedication to community-focused initiatives. Additionally, he served as the leader of the Mission Housing Development Corporation, which focuses on affordable housing and support services for low- and moderate-income individuals in San Francisco.

Currently, Romero is not only the chair of the ABAG Housing Committee but also serves as the chair of the San Mateo County Transportation Authority Board of Directors. This multifaceted involvement highlights his commitment to addressing the complexities of regional planning and development.

Founded in 1961, ABAG is the principal regional planning organization for the Bay Area, encompassing nine counties and over 100 cities and towns. It holds a significant role as the first council of governments established in California, dedicated to fostering collaborative economic and environmental strategies across the region.

As vice president, Romero's leadership will focus on fostering equitable solutions and collaborative approaches to overcome the Bay Area's critical challenges. His extensive background in community organizing and development positions him well to drive initiatives that prioritize sustainable growth and address the pressing needs of the residents in the region. Romero’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for ABAG as it seeks to navigate its future strategies in an ever-evolving landscape.

Romero's vision aligns with the ongoing discussions about building resilient communities in the Bay Area, ensuring that the needs of varied demographics are represented in planning decisions. His recent election as ABAG vice president is not only a testament to his leadership but also a crucial step toward addressing the multifaceted challenges of the region as it prepares for a sustainable future.