Donning scuffed shoes, wrinkled slacks, and a sailboat-dotted polo, Stanton City Councilmember Donald Torres seemed like someone grabbing clothes from a hamper in haste. He was among over 50,000 Orange County residents evacuated as authorities worked to cool a tank of highly toxic chemicals. Torres moved across three locations over four days with his family and pets, handling calls from concerned residents.
Returning home to disarray Tuesday, he joined protesters at Garden Grove City Council to oppose GKN Aerospace’s expansion and push for a shutdown of the facility. Yet, his mind fixated on more than the chaos of recent days.
Stanton, home to 40,000 residents — diverse and economically challenged — often remained in the shadows, emerging in news only during tragedies. Media spotlighted Garden Grove, ignoring that 85% of Stanton faced evacuation. Stanton officials were absent from daily news conferences, prompting Torres to demand respect and resources for his town. “We have to rise to the occasion and act,” Torres stated.
Post-crisis, activists joined him at the news conference to voice concerns for Latino areas once overlooked by Orange County. Torres apologized for not having business cards; Perea from Harbor Institute lamented Latino families being an afterthought. Torres vowed to seek city and state support for displaced residents and affected businesses.
Stanton’s origins trace back 70 years to post-WWII, sharing wide streets and housing with central Orange County cities. But reputation woes persisted, as towns mocked its attempted transformation from a sewer site. Mayor David Shawver emphasized Stanton’s progress in crime and development, highlighting regional support.
During a visit to affected businesses, Torres encountered struggles. Carniceria El Novillo owner faced price hikes amid evacuation costs. Panaderia El Cortez worker dealt with spoiled goods. Residents grappled with fear and losses, uncertain of their future.
Maria Ngo, shop owner, asked Torres if her town was safe, post-crisis. He assured her, noting resolved issues. Yet, the community remains vigilant, questioning recovery measures: “So are we going to be OK?”
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