Vista

The Vista area was originally inhabited the Luiseño Indians, who lived on the land until the founding of the San Luis Rey Mission in 1798. The prosperity of the mission-era declined by the 1830’s with the independence of Mexico from Spain. The Mexican government began to grant land ownerships to a variety of people, thus beginning the Rancho era of California. Three ranchos were granted in the Vista area: Rancho Guajome, Rancho Buena Vista, and Agua Hedionda Y los Manos.

Incorporation (January 28, 1963)

"We are Now a City" Vista Press, January 1963

The city incorporated on January 28, 1963 as a general law city with council/manager form of government. The first city council was elected and appointed Joe Fotheringham as Vista’s first mayor. The incorporated city limits contains approximately 19 square miles and in 1963 its population had reached over 19,000. In 1984, voters passed a law to elect future mayors, rather than through an appointment made by the elected council. By 2006, the population of Vista grew to over 94,000.

Today, Vista is a thriving community that continues to grow and develop many new activities and attractions. The Moonlight Amphitheatre, AVO Playhouse, and the Wave Waterpark are just some of the many cultural activities the city offers Vista residents. Vista's Business Park is home to over 800 companies, with many global businesses relocating their headquarters, manufacturing, distribution and marketing facilities to this business park. In addition, Vista Village has brought revitalization to the downtown with dining, entertainment, shopping, and public amenities.

Vista at your fingertips:  http://cityofvista.com/