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ABOUT ME

Hi, I'm Waldo

My name is Waldo D. Galán, and I’m running for Cedar City Council because I believe in strong, collaborative leadership, transparent government, and putting our community first. Throughout my life, I’ve been blessed with opportunities to lead, build, and serve—whether in the boardroom, in church service, or here in Cedar City. For over 30 years, I worked with Ford Motor Company, where I led teams, launched major initiatives, and navigated complex business challenges across a wide range of markets. That experience taught me how to make sound decisions, manage large operations, and bring people together to get things done.

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However, my proudest titles are husband, father, grandfather, and neighbor. My wife and I chose to make Cedar City our forever home because we were drawn to the spirit of this community. Since arriving, I’ve served on local nonprofit boards, co-founded a small business with my daughter, and become involved in faith-based and interfaith efforts that connect and strengthen our city. Service has always been part of who I am—from youth programs to crisis support centers, from the business world to church leadership—I’ve always tried to show up where I’m needed most.

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If elected, I will focus on the issues that matter to all of us: smart growth that protects our quality of life, affordable housing that supports families and seniors, public safety that keeps our community secure, and transparent city operations that earn your trust. I’m a neighbor with a track record of results, a heart for service, and a desire to give back. Cedar City has a bright future, and I would be honored to help shape it.

Experience

Longtime Family Man & Cedar City Resident

  • Married 50 years to his high school sweetheart

  • Father of 4, grandfather of 14, great-grandfather 

  • Local business owner – co-founded SHE. Salon & Formal Dress Boutique with daughter

 

Local & Global Civic Involvement

  • Former President, Cedar City Interfaith Alliance

  • Board Member, Canyon Creek Women’s Crisis Center

  • Rotary International 

  • American Business Council 

  • Chairman & Board Member, Hiroshima International School

  • Local & International church service

 

Proven Leadership

  • Retired from Ford Motor Company after 32 years

  • Directed operations across South America, Middle East, Asia & more

  • Opened Ford Chile, Ford Trading Co., and led business development in 119+ countries

  • Current international consultant for major auto industry projects in the UAE

Moving Forward

Economic Development

  • Attract new businesses and create jobs through strategic planning.

  • Balance growth with infrastructure and community needs.

  • Identify and recruit high-revenue industries (e.g., industrial, high-tech, education, services).

  • Support local businesses and reduce retail leakage.

Housing Affordability

  • Project housing demand aligned with population growth.

  • Promote diverse, affordable housing through zoning policy.

  • Address housing insecurity and homelessness among vulnerable populations.

Infrastructure Improvements

  • Assess and update aging infrastructure, including roads and utilities.

  • Improve public transportation, especially during major events.

  • Expand walkable areas, parks, and recreational spaces in alignment with community growth and tourism.

Public Safety & Health

  • Ensure police and fire departments are fully resourced and staffed for current and future needs.

  • Plan for additional fire stations as the city expands.

  • Support healthcare expansion, including emergency care, mental health, and addiction services.

Environmental Sustainability

  • Implement sustainable resource management practices.

  • Prepare for climate impacts, especially on water supply and quality.

  • Preserve green spaces and recreation areas amid higher-density development.

Community Engagement & Transparency

  • Encourage citizen participation in local governance.

  • Maintain transparency in budget planning and city policies.

  • Address community concerns openly and honestly.

Education & Workforce Development

  • Partner with schools and colleges to align workforce training with future industry needs.

  • Expand vocational and technical education in high-growth sectors.

  • Support youth education and collaborate with the school district to plan for future growth.

Infrastructure & Technology

  • Modernize city services using digital tools and emerging technologies.

  • Ensure cybersecurity and data protection for city systems.

Tourism, Arts & Downtown Revitalization

  • Foster business networks to improve quality of life and tourism appeal.

  • Enhance downtown aesthetics and infrastructure (retail, dining, housing, entertainment).

  • Support cultural attractions like the Shakespeare Festival and expand visitor services.

Accountability & Good Governance

  • End nepotism and promote fairness in city leadership.

  • Uphold transparent, auditable financial and procurement procedures.

  • Require regular training and independent audits to ensure accountability.

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