Moreno Valley Mourns Death of Another Political Leader

Another figure in Moreno Valley politics has died. Former Mayor Tom Owings’ death was announced Monday, Nov. 15 in a statement from Mayor Yxstian Gutierrez.

“Tom Owings was not only a friend but a strong and visionary leader,” Gutierrez said. “As mayor, he helped lead the charge in balancing our budget after a recession, expanding after school programs and youth initiatives, cutting spending and bringing our faith communities together.”

Owings was elected to the city council in 2012 and appointed mayor the following year. He was known for his blunt and sometimes brash behavior. Owings was among four council members who had their homes raided by the FBI in 2013. Although no indictments were ever filed, two of them – including Owings – were recalled by voters.

Owings’ cause of death has not been released to the public. He was living in the community of Pinetop, Arizona.

Two Moreno Valley council members also died earlier this year. Mayor Pro Tem Victoria Baca passed away in October and Council Member Carla Thornton died in January.