Councilmember Richard Batalla proudly serves the residents of District 1 on the Santa Maria City Council and has dedicated his career to public service, education, youth development, and community leadership.

With more than a decade of experience working in education, nonprofit leadership, and public administration, Ricardo Batalla has built a strong reputation as a passionate advocate for youth, families, and underserved communities. He currently serves as Youth Development Director for the YMCA of the Santa Maria Valley, where he oversees afterschool programs, youth sports, internship opportunities, and mentorship initiatives serving more than 2,000 students throughout the community.

Prior to his work with the YMCA, Richard Batalla served as a Special Education Teacher with the Lompoc Unified School District, where he provided individualized academic and behavioral support for students with disabilities. He also previously worked as a Finance Supervisor for the United States Postal Service, overseeing financial operations, budgeting, compliance, and personnel management.

Richard Batalla earned a Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in Educational Leadership and Administration from California State University, Fresno and also holds a Master’s degree in Urban Education from University of Southern California. He earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Criminology and Chicano Studies from Fresno State and is also a Certified Instructor through the Crisis Prevention Institute.

A lifelong community advocate, Richard Batalla actively serves on several local and statewide organizations and boards, including:

• City of Santa Maria Quarterly Schools Committee
• Central Coast Water Authority—Alternate
• Central Coast Collaborative on Homelessness 3CH (Home for Good) Committee—Alternate
• Member of Nu Alpha Kappa Fraternity
• California Afterschool Network Board Member
• Santa Maria Valley Leadership Board Member
• Santa Maria Noontime Rotary Club President-Elect
• Santa Maria Elks Lodge 1538 Member
• R. M. Pyles Boys Camp Camp Selector

Throughout his career and public service, Richard Batalla has remained committed to expanding educational opportunities, supporting youth and families, promoting public safety, and strengthening the quality of life for all Santa Maria residents.