About Gary
A truSted warrior for El Cajon
A COUNCILMEMBER FOR ALL OF EL CAJON
Gary Kendrick is a veteran El Cajon City Councilmember, first elected in 2002 and serving the community for more than two decades. During his long tenure, Gary secured over $117M USD in grants for the city. His efforts also led to El Cajon's fire department being rated in the top 1% of fire departments in the United States. Gary received an award from the Drug Enforcement Agency for keeping tobacco, alcohol, and illegal drugs away from El Cajon's children.
A BETTER, BRIGHTER EL CAJON
El Cajon deserves leadership that listens, delivers results, and puts our community first. With more than two decades of proven experience and a track record of securing transformative investments for our city, Gary Kendrick is committed to building a safer, more prosperous future where every resident can thrive.
GARY’S ACCOMPLISHMENTS
24 years of DELIVERING RESULTS for the people of El Cajon
$117 Million in Grants Secured – Through tireless advocacy and strategic partnerships, Councilman Kendrick has brought more than $117 million in state and federal funding to El Cajon, investing in critical infrastructure, public safety equipment, parks, and community programs without raising taxes.
Top 1% Fire Department Rating – Under Kendrick's leadership and support, El Cajon's Fire Department achieved a ranking in the top 1% of fire departments nationwide, ensuring world-class emergency response and lower insurance rates for residents and businesses.
Award-Winning Drug Prevention – Recognized by the Drug Enforcement Agency for exceptional work protecting El Cajon's youth from tobacco, alcohol, and illegal drugs through education, enforcement, and community collaboration.
Revitalizing Arts & Culture – Championed the reopening of El Cajon's Performing Arts Center, restoring a cultural landmark and providing a venue for community performances, student showcases, and professional entertainment.
School Safety Leadership – Implemented comprehensive school safety initiatives and worked directly with districts to enhance security measures, ensuring El Cajon's children learn in safe, protected environments.
Reducing Homelessness – Through coordinated outreach and housing initiatives, Councilman Kendrick has helped achieve measurable reductions in El Cajon's homeless population, improving the quality of life for housed and unhoused residents alike.
Gary’s Story
Gary Kendrick is a lifelong East County resident who was raised in Santee and has called the region home for more than 50 years.
A successful entrepreneur with an MBA, Gary was one of the original leaders of San Diego Comic-Con and operated a chain of comic book stores throughout San Diego during the 1980s before building a career as a business owner and real estate appraiser.
His deep commitment to public service began with his work on the El Cajon Planning Commission and as trustee on the Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District Governing Board before being elected to the City Council in 2002.
Gary is a proud father of three sons and enjoys spending time with his two beloved dogs.
