George Pederson, a former Santa Clarita Mayor, navigated the City through one of its roughest encounters during the Northridge earthquake. Pederson earned a distinct place in Santa Clarita Valley history as the “earthquake mayor” for his leadership during the Northridge quake that struck the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys on Jan. 17, 1994. Pederson also had a renowned career in the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, retiring with the rank of commander after almost 30 years of service. He did so many things for the community, he was involved with the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Clarita Valley, the Santa Clarita Valley Senior Center, the American Cancer Society. The City of Santa Clarita is a better place because of his dedication and service.