Xavier Avila took the oath of office for his seat on the Tulare Local Healthcare District Board on Thursday evening. He will represent Zone 5, replacing Linda Wilbourn’s vacated position.
Avila was appointed on October 4 by now-fellow board members Kevin Northcraft, Mike Jamaica and Senovia Gutierrez.
Northcraft and Jamaica were in attendance at the short, casual ceremony held immediately outside hospital grounds.
Avila’s wife and five of their seven children were also present.
The almost impromptu event was hosted by attorney Dennis Mederos of the Tulare law firm Horswill, Mederos, Soares & Ormonde.
After brief comments of welcome by Northcraft and Jamaica, Avila was sworn in by California state notary Paula N. Tucker.
“Some people don’t know whether to offer me congratulations or condolences,” Avila told the small gathering. “If I’m on the board and get to kick HCCA out, that’s congratulations.”
Avila stated that he does not intend to simply serve out Wilbourn’s remaining term, but intends to also run in 2018 to become an elected board member.