Menifee‘s newest City Council member is a six-year veteran of the Planning Commission. Ben Diederich was appointed to the Menifee City Council seat in District 2 on Jan. 15, 2025. He is serving the remaining two years of the unexpired term of Ricky Estrada, who was elected mayor in November 2024. (Courtesy City of Menifee) At its meeting Wednesday, Jan. 15, the council appointed Ben Diederich to the District 2 seat, vacated when Ricky Estrada won election as mayor on Nov. 5. Diederich will serve the remaining two years of Estrada’s unexpired term. The District 2 seat will be back on the ballot in November 2026. “I am honored that the City Council has appointed me as the District 2 City Councilmember and look forward to serving my community and ensuring the safety and happiness of our residents,” Diederich said in a news release issued by the city. “With my experience as a planning commissioner,” Diederich said, “I hope to help our city attract additional amenities, entertainment options, and high-quality jobs that will allow residents to live, work, and play right here in Menifee.” According to the news release, Diederich is a long-time Menifee resident and has served as a planning commissioner for six years. He is involved in numerous community organizations including the Menifee Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Rotary Club of Menifee. Diederich also served on the Board of Directors for Santa Rosa Academy. Diederich will be sworn in at the next regular council meeting set for 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 5, at City Hall, 29844 Haun Road. Related Articles Local News | Riverside revisiting regulations on cannabis retailers Local News | Hemet council adds 10 months to warehouse moratorium Local News | Riverside school board won’t seek change in transgender athletics law Local News | Wittingly or not, LA city, county officials chose fewer firefighters, more OT pay Local News | Moreno Valley mayor alleges ex-employer asked him to use influence to help company