Eben follows Autry's footsteps

But longtime educator brings his own proposals to Fresno mayoral race.

Published online on Friday, Apr. 18, 2008

Jeff Eben has been a teacher, a principal and a motivational speaker.

But it wasn't until he was asked to serve as Fresno's deputy mayor that Eben thought about elected office.

"I was reminded that when given an opportunity to really serve others, you need to answer the call," Eben said.

"I soon realized that the opportunity to do enormous good for a great many people really existed from the mayor's office."

Eben's position with the city has been controversial. He replaced Roger Montero, who resigned last year after a temporary worker accused him of sexual harassment.

The City Council has tried to eliminate the deputy mayor position, and even Eben says that while the job is necessary, the title needs to change.

In his 10 months on the job, Eben said, he has increased awareness about downtown issues from redevelopment to rejuvenation of the Fulton Mall.

He has also championed Autry's efforts on the Kern Street Sports Town project.

Eben said his announcement that he wanted to be mayor had an unexpected result.

Born in Clovis, Eben has lived in only two other places -- Madera and Fresno.

So when he moved into Fresno to run for mayor, he was surprised to be called a carpetbagger.

"I've actually lived in Fresno more than Clovis," Eben said. "But that perception is hard to shake."

Tom Holyoke, an assistant professor of political science at California State University, Fresno, said Eben does face a challenge to overcome his residency issues.

But the bigger problem could be his similarities to Mayor Alan Autry. Eben serves under Autry, and his main political experience has come implementing policies created by Autry.

"People like Alan Autry but may be tired of his administration at the same time," Holyoke said.

"People want something different from the mayor now, something new, and that's a problem because he is like Autry in many ways."

Holyoke said that even though Eben, a political newcomer, lacks experience, his intelligence is a strong advantage.

"He's a smart man," Holyoke said. "Maybe one of the smartest candidates."

Eben, who has been paralyzed since a water-skiing accident in 1977, said he has never been afraid to take on a challenge, even one as large as serving as mayor.

"This is not an entry-level leadership position," Eben said. "I believe I'm the only one with the quantifiable, large organization leadership experience that the job requires."

Eben said his leadership experience includes 10 years as a school principal and the job of serving as the first leader of Clovis East High School.

"As principal of a large high school, I've built a community and know what it is to be accountable," Eben said.

"I've made tough decisions, been through many crises, created a sense of team and family throughout those experiences."

Eben also said his ability to move people will help him rise above the crowded field of candidates.

"It's not about who is the best candidate, or who can run the best campaign," Eben said. "It's about who is the best leader."