Paul Gaarenstroom
LCPOA Board Candidate
Current LCPOA Board Member, Treasurer and Secretary
Candidate for La Cresta Board of Directors
Foundation of Service, Business Leadership, and Core Values
Thirty-five years ago, I founded The Pacific Group/PG Insurance Services Inc., building a successful regional insurance brokerage firm from the ground up. Operating offices in Laguna Hills and the Chino Airport taught me every facet of business management: employee relations, client satisfaction, navigating difficult situations, and the vital art of compromise. My professional journey began after serving four years on the flight crew of a C-141B aircraft at McChord AFB, supporting our Far East network. I then attended Portland State University. My military service permanently ingrained in me three core values that still dictate my life today: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.
Proven Leadership and Board Experience
I currently serve the La Cresta community as both the Secretary and Treasurer on the LCPOA Board of Directors. My dedication to effective governance extends to two other HOA boards, where I hold the roles of Vice President and Secretary. My deep commitment to leadership is reflected in my extensive past service:
- Providence Hospital: Twelve years on various hospital committees followed by a seat on the Board of Directors.
- Mission Viejo Country Club: Served as Board Vice President.
- Families Forward (Irvine Temporary Housing): Served as Vice President of Fundraising, helping families secure housing stability.
A Clear Vision for La Cresta
Our community is a unique treasure unlike any other in California. My vision for the Plateau focuses on protecting our way of life through practical, high-standard stewardship:
- Infrastructure Excellence: Maintain our roads to the highest standards.
- Trail Safety: Keep our multi-purpose trails clear, safe, and accessible exclusively for riders, runners, walkers, and non-electric bicyclists.
- Absolute Transparency: Ensure open, clear communication between the board and our residents.
- Fiscal Responsibility: Upholding the Board’s fiduciary duty to provide adequate reserves, accurate budgeting, and financial risk management.
Protecting Our Community and Values
Over the last two years on your Board of Directors, I have worked tirelessly to bring common sense decision-making, financial accountability, and transparency to our community. I make it a personal priority to treat every member of La Cresta with the utmost respect. As state mandates out of Sacramento increasingly threaten our local independence, our board must remain vigilant. I am ready to continue navigating these challenges skillfully, protecting our investments, and preserving the rural lifestyle we all cherish.
Paul Gaarenstroom