Candidate Forum Video Links

A SECOND BITE OF THE APPLE
Well, we've finished with all the City Council candidate forums for this cycle.  Now it's just about how many signs are placed and stolen and how much political stuff jams into your mailboxes.  So, if you're interested, I'm providing the links to all three of the candidate forums for your viewing pleasure.  I suspect you'll be able to form some pretty solid opinions about the individual candidates as you view them.

EASTSIDE COSTA MESA NEIGHBORS GROUP FORUM
Let's begin with the most recent forum - the Eastside Costa Mesa Neighbors' Group forum conducted on October 6th at the Neighborhood Community Center.  Terry Wall produced this recording for us to view.  Only three candidates, Sandy Genis, John Stephens and Jay Humphrey, showed up for this meeting but moderator Harold Weitzberg managed to drive right on through the planned agenda and get answers to most of the questions.  In my view, this was the most informative of the three.  Watch it HERE.

 MESA VERDE COMMUNITY, INC
Next we have the forum hosted by Mesa Verde Community, Inc on August 24th.  Four of the seven candidates showed up for this one.  Al Melone, plus the three listed above.  Terry Wall also produced this video, which you can view HERE.  Former Mayor Mary Hornbuckle was the moderator for this event.

FEET TO THE FIRE
Finally, the first forum, the Feet To The Fire Forum, which was held early in the cycle, on August 18th.  Columnist Barbara Venezia and former Daily Pilot Publisher Tom Johnson were the moderators of this event.  The crew from Newport Beach Television did the video recording because the Costa Mesa City Council refused to let Costa Mesa Television televise any candidate forums.  Al Melone attended in the audience, but did not participate.  Mayor Steve Mensinger, former mayor Allan Mansoor and Lee Ramos joined Genis, Stephens and Humphrey on the stage.  It gives you a chance to see those three men early in the election cycle.  You can watch this nearly 2 hour event HERE.

LET THEM KEEP ON TALKING!
I must say that it's very disappointing that some of the candidates chose to avoid some of the forums.  The voters deserve to see and hear their views and compare them to their competition.  Then, again, the slate of Mensinger, Mansoor and Ramos seem to be running a campaign based on lies and misrepresentations, so it's easy to understand why they wouldn't want to have their views stacked against the others.  We have less than a month to go before we cast our votes - plenty of time to sort out the lies from the truth.  Fortunately, the more "Team Costa Mesa" - Dave Ellis' trio of lie-spewers - talk the more they lie.

Mesa Verde Forum Smooth As Silk

A SMOOTH EVENT
The City Council Candidate Forum hosted by Mesa Verde Community, Inc., last night ran as smooth as silk - perhaps, in part, because three of the seven candidates failed to show up.

THE NO-SHOWS
Council candidates Steve Mensinger, Allan Mansoor and Lee Ramos failed to appear even though the hosts prepared a seat at the table for each of them.  We won't talk too much about their absence except to observe that more than 150 residents missed a chance to hear their answers to some pretty darn good questions.  We're told that a couple had schedule conflicts.  I don't believe that for one second.  I think they just have a hard place in their hearts for the hosts, so they decided to sit this one out.

LEFFLER INTRODUCED HORNBUCKLE
However, the meeting was a great success.   John Leffler, representing the Mesa Verde Community, Inc. Board, welcomed the crowd promptly at 7:00 and introduced  the moderator - former mayor Mary Hornbuckle - who took the baton and held it firmly all evening.  She did a wonderful job of keeping the candidates in line and moved the process through briskly.  She mixed just the right amount of humor with her assignment.

THE RULES...
After each of the four candidates present - Lawyer John Stephens, Retired CPA Al Melone, former councilman Jay Humphrey and councilwoman Sandy Genis - took two minutes to introduce themselves and explain why they were running, Hornbuckle proceeded with a series of questions, each of which were asked of each candidate in order.  She rotated the order for the sake of fairness.  The first set of questions allowed up to two minutes to answer, after which the dreaded red card would be flashed and their speaking door would be slammed.  Subsequent questions allowed one minute for a response and, later, only 30 seconds.  I'm going to give you a summary of the responses - not replay every single word.  This event was taped for replay later by First Impressions Video so you can see the whole thing if you wish.

RIGHT TYPE OF GROWTH FOR COSTA MESA?
First up was a question about "the right type of growth for Costa Mesa".
Humphrey mentioned controlled development, and spoke about the current plans for more high density housing.  He also mentioned the Smart Growth Initiative.  He indicated the council should hear from the public.

Genis emphasized that the "right type of growth" should take into consideration the needs of the current residents - services, work opportunities and should have a balance of residential, commercial and industrial.  Citing the many developments around town, she described them as "a hodge podge of stuff going up."  She was concerned that we are replacing jobs with ticky-tacky housing that will be bad for the environment and for living.

Stephens agreed with them and observed that we have a Planning Commission and asked "Shouldn't they be doing some planning?" instead of just approving.  He cited enormous developments, like 125 Baker Street and the four story with roof garden developments popping up.  He specifically mentioned the radius around 17th Street and Pomona, where developments are sprouting up all around that area.

Melone observed that we are not like Irvine - we are a built-out city and our population is staying fairly level.  He agreed with the other candidates.

HOW TO LOWER CRIME RATE?
Melone said better allocation of resources.  He said Quality of life = safety, which means more police and fire personnel.

Stephens agreed with Melone and said we need more police officers, indicating that "perception becomes reality" when it is known we have too few cops criminals take advantage of it.  He cited the reasons for fewer cops and said we need to elect different councl members to help solve the problem.

Genis also said we need to get the number of cops up because our current staffing levels makes us a sitting duck.  She disagreed with those (Righeimer) who said more cops doesn't mean less crime.  She criticized the current council majority because they continue to blow off studies by expensive consultants that tell them we need more police.  She mentioned the lawsuit between Mensinger and Mayor Pro Tem Jim Righeimer and the police association as problematic.

Humphrey agreed and said currently the Fire Rescue Service and the Police Staff are working too much overtime, which puts strain on their health and performance.

STRATEGY FOR REDUCING UNFUNDED PENSION LIABILITY?
Stephens mentioned he had been on the Pension Oversight Committee for a couple years.  He suggested pre-paying the pension and paying down the Fire Side Fund, which is currently costing us 7.5% interest.

Genis agreed with him, and recalled several expensive consultants that had been hired to advise on this issue.  They all recommended paying ahead on the Fire Side Fund.

Humphrey said we need to prioritize and pay down the debt.

Melone observed that the economy may go south again so we shouldn't pay ahead when it would go away anyhow.

DEALING WITH SOBER LIVING HOMES?
Genis said we have new ordinances but are not enforcing them.  She also expressed disappointment that we didn't look at what other cities had done - Orange, specifically.

Stephens said we should be going after the bad operators and put more resources behind enforcement of our laws.

Melone suggested that we do what Newport Beach did - spend millions in legal fees to make sober living operators aware they are not welcome in that city. (He didn't include in his response that those Newport Beach operators just came across the border to Newport Beach).

Humhprey also stressed enforcement and cited group homes on Royal Palm that were problematic.

MENTIONING SOUTH COAST PLAZA, WHAT ABOUT DIVERSIFYING THE TAX BASE?
Melone said we should be extremely grateful for South Coast Plaza, but that the current council doesn't know how to spend our money.

Stephens said the key is tourism.  We should do as councilwoman Katrina Foley has been trying to do for a couple years and ramp-up our emphasis on tourism, generating more Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT).

Genis mentioned the Sales Tax generated by South Coast Plaza and the car dealerships, but emphasized the need to do a better job of strengthening our reserves - save, don't spend.

Humphrey said he thinks we have a balanced economy, but we've not done a good job of building back our reserves in the event of another economic downturn.  Put more money away for a rainy day.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALLOT MEASURE FOR VOTER CONTROL OF GROWTH?
Humphrey said the people need to be able to say "enough is enough".  He was concerned about the traffic impacts of the high density housing being built/proposed.  He said we need good planned development.

Genis said the people who live her should have a voice.  She emphasized that those with a vested interest should be heard.

Stephens, who apparently is not 100% sold on the Smart Growth Initiative, said the solution is to elect people in November that will listen to the residents.  He said the initiative wouldn't exist if he and Humphrey had been elected in the past two elections.  He said that, while he understands why the initiative was launched, it's not the best solution.  That solution is to elect a different council majority.

Melone muttered something about there never being enough money to pay for projects.  Geez!

THE FIRST 30 SECOND QUESTION - YOUR MOST NECESSARY CHANGE IN COSTA MESA?
Stephens said make it safer and immediately begin ambulance transport.

Genis said restore respect for residents, employees and tell the truth.  She said the current council majority doesn't respect you enough to tell you the truth.

Humphrey said safety.  Get the Police and Fire Departments back to proper staffing.

Melone said Group Homes, describing them as a plague.

WHAT ABOUT MEDICAL TRANSPORT? 
Melone said he didn't have enough information, so he passed on the question.  This is a perfect reason that he should not have been on the ballot.

Humphrey said we spent $1.5 million on the units which should be deployed.  He cited the millions in income the city would receive if we did so.

Genis said we should immediately go to medical transport and get the Fire Department up to staff.

Stephens said it was a no-brainer - we should immediately begin medical transport.

SOLUTION TO HOMELESS?
Genis said a "carrot and stick" approach should be used - enforcement and supportive housing.  She said some of the homeless just need a little help.  She refered to the Fairview Developmental Center as a place for transitional housing.

Humphrey agreed with Genis and said there is a City fund to help with transitional housing.

Melone said Genis hit the nail on the head.  We need supportive housing.

Stephens agreed with the others and spoke about the broad spectrum of homeless folks that need help.

WHAT ABOUT CANNIBIS DISPENSARIES? 
Humphrey said Medical Marijuana is important for folks that actually need it.  He said we need to control the process.

Genis agreed that the people who have a valid medical need should have access to it, with proper controls.

Stephens said this is not the right time for Costa Mesa to have dispensaries - that we should wait for the State to get their rules sorted out first.  He cited our current public safety challenges.

Melone agreed with Stephens and said the "medicine" should be dispensed by pharmacies, and with no sales tax.

HORNBUCKLE ASKED EACH WHAT THEY WANT TO LEAVE BEHIND AFTER FOUR YEARS ON THE COUNCIL
Genis said healthy reserves; pay down the pension liability; retain Fairview Park as a natural park forever; Expand the SMART program for the youth; balanced growth; development that will actually pay its way and a new animal shelter.

Humphrey said a vibrant, healthy city that knows where it's going.  He wants balanced development, a return of the City of the Arts and protection for all our parks, including Fairview Park.

Melone cited quality of life and an animal shelter.

Stephens said he wanted to leave behind a different attitude about governance, where people actually listened.  He wants to leave behind after his eight years on the council a atmosphere where people receive thoughtful consideration of their opinions - a place where we are nice to each other and we can build consensus.

Then they began questions from the audience, with a 1 minute time limit on responses.
 

MERGER OF MESA WATER AND COSTA MESA SANITARY DISTRICT?
Humphrey is against it.  It looks like a power grab.

Melone agreed.  He said he didn't know why they wanted it.  It looks like a power grab.

Stephens said he really didn't know enough about it, but is a very satisfied customer of both entities.  He said, "If it's not broke, don't fix it".  He said it appeared that Mesa Water is trying to jam this through, and that there should be more meetings.  He said it should not be on the ballot.

Genis recalled that 30 or so years ago both entities had offices at City Hall and there was talk of the City taking both over, but it was rejected.  She said each has different missions.  She said it looks like one agency trying to glom onto another agency's revenue.

BEST PART OF COSTA MESA - YOUR SKILLS TO MAKE IT EVEN BETTER?
Melone said bring more fairness and participation by residents.

Stephens said, with a smile,  "Costa Mesans and Mexican Food".  He looked at the audience and said "YOU are the best part of Costa Mesa!"

Genis said "The people of Costa Mesa", citing ethnic diversity.  She said our differences make life interesting and that we're in this together for the long haul.

Humphrey said the city's diversity - that we learn from each other.  He said Fairview Park, a jewel that should be protected.  He also mentioned Talbert Park, which may someday become part of Fairview Park.

YOUR STAND ON FAIRVIEW PARK AND BANNING RANCH?
Stephens said keep Fairview Park natural forever and save Banning Ranch.

Genis acknowledged Dr. Richard Mehren - the father of Fairview Park - in the audience and said she was the only elected official to speak in Long Beach against the development of Banning Ranch.

Humphrey said keep Fairview Park natural.  He said Banning Ranch should not be developed, but should be cleaned up by the owners.

Melone said "Once again they stole my thunder."

WHAT ABOUT OUR NEGATIVE NEIGHBORS, THE VAGABOND INN AND MOTEL 6?
Genis said we do have some motels that cause problems.  She spoke about one that became a Single Room Occupancy facility to meet affordable housing demands.

Humphrey said we should enforce our codes against the bad actors.  He referred to the recent conversion of a problem motel into the BLVD Hotel on Newport Boulevard.  He said the solution should be what is best for Costa Mesa, not developers.

Melone said he didn't think his Mesa Verde neighbors think there is a problem with those two motels.  He said we need a Vice Squad, trained to control prostitution.  He said the "motel thing" is a "diversion" from other issues.

Stephens said flat out that the motel issue is more of a land grab, to facilitate more High Density housing.  He agreed that we need more police and a Vice Squad, but we also need some of the motels that serve as last resort housing for folks who would otherwise be homeless.

REDISTRICTING OF CITY AS DEFINED ON THE BALLOT?
Humphrey said NO!  It would dilute the Latino vote.

Melone said NO!  He's against the whole idea of it, but if forced, we should use one of the 5 district choices.

Stephens said district voting IS going to happen and said 5 districts may be the way to go.  Districting is not the best way to place Latinos on the council, but that they do deserve a voice.  He's against the 6 district and directly elected mayor choice that's on the ballot.

Genis said NO!  She prefers a 5 district choice.  She said the current item on the ballot will only exacerbate the current abuse of power we see in the city.

WHAT ABOUT FIXING STREETS AND POTHOLES?
Melone asked "what potholes?".  He said our streets are nice, and reminded us we have no snow, ice or sleet.

Stephens said our streets are much better than where he grew up in San Gabriel.  He said he can live forever without the medians in Mesa Verde and elsewhere.

Genis cited a couple problem areas that need targeted repairs.

Humphrey said we need to prioritize our street repairs and that we're spending too much on medians that are not needed or wanted.

NEIGHBORHOOD STREETS  FILLED WITH CARS - PERMIT PARKING?
Stephens said perhaps we should lower the threshhold for permit parking in residential neighborhoods.  Much of this problem is due to high density housing nearby.

Genis blamed it on high density housing and Small Lot Developments that replace one home with six or more and provide inadequate guest parking.  She said we need more enforcement.

Humphrey cited apartment complexes that lease out garage space as a problem.

Melone said permit parking should be expanded and that if we solve the high density housing issue this problem goes away.

ILLEGAL FIREWORKS?
Genis said ZERO tolerance to violators, and increase staffing levels of the Police and Fire Departments.

Humphrey agreed, ZERO tolerance and penalize to the maximum allowed.

Melone said in his neighborhood some folks spend $1,500 - $2,000 for fireworks and received only a $150 fine.  Increase the penalties.

Stephens said first limit use of fireworks to ONLY July 4th.  He said hire undercover cops to infiltrate neighborhoods and cite offenders.  Double the fines.  And, he said every dollar in fines collected should go to youth sports.  That would increase the possibility of snitches turning in folks for illegal fireworks.

SMART GROWTH INTIATIVE?
Next came a raise of hands - who supports the Smart Growth Initiative?  All raised their hands except Stephens, who asked if he could raise it half way.  He's not convinced it's the best way to solve the problem.  He suggested changing the council instead.

The final question - HOW DO WE REUNITE THIS CITY? 
Stephens said change our attitude about governing the city.  Listen to the people, not developers.

Melone said new blood on the council, including Latinos.

Humphrey said the public is not being heard.

Genis echoed that sentiment and cited recent programs - like the Great Outreach for the General Plan or the voting districts workshops, where resident input was ignored.  She suggested NO private meetings to resolve problems - they should be fleshed out in public.

WRAP UP
Stephens said he was born in 1963 and was named after John F. Kennedy.  He quoted Kennedy, "

All this will not be finished in the first one hundred days. Nor will it be finished in the first one thousand days . . .nor even perhaps in our lifetime on this planet. But let us begin."

Melone spoke about South Coast Plaza and quality of life.

 Humphrey told us he has the skills to do the job and asked for their votes.

 Genis said she's tired of being on the "2" side of 3-2 votes, but she's still been able to accomplish some things.  She asked the audience to elect her and others on the dais so we can have a really productive community.

Hornbuckle closed by apologizing that all the candidates were not present, but that she had personally reached out to each of those absent.  Places had been set at the table, just in case they changed their minds.

From my standpoint, this event went very well.  Of course, there were no voices of discord.  In fact, there were very few folks in the audience that I would describe as avid Mensinger, Mansoor, Ramos supporters.  I think, though, that those of who did attend got a better idea of the priorities of the candidates who attended.  Thanks to the good folks of Mesa Verde Community, Inc for hosting this event, and to the very special presence of Mary Hornbuckle - the high water mark for a public servant.  She presently serves as Vice President of the Board of Trustees of the Coast Community College District and will, herself, be on the ballot for re-election in November.

To the best of my knowledge, the next candidate forum will be held by my friends at the Eastside Costa Mesa Neighbors Group on October 6, 2016.

 APPLAUSE FOR EGAN
As a sidebar, when Eleanor Egan arrived before the formal program began she was greeted with a round of applause by many in the room and presented with a bouquet of gratitude for her tirelessness in the pursuit of truth on the rebuttal issue mentioned in an earlier post.  Again, kudos to her and her persistence in standing up to bullies and liars on our behalf.

Mesa Verde Community, Inc. Candidate Forum Wednesday**

 ANOTHER CHANCE TO HEAR CANDIDATES VIEWS
Mesa Verde Community, Inc., will host the next Costa Mesa City Council Candidate Forum this Wednesday, August 24, 2016 at the Neighborhood Community Center, 1845 Park Avenue (Lions Park).  The festivities begin with a "meet and greet" opportunity with the candidates at 6:30 and the program begins promptly at 7:00 p.m.

HORNBUCKLE TO MODERATE
This event, the 16th such gathering hosted by this organization, will be moderated by Mary Hornbuckle, former councilwoman and mayor and presently Vice President of the Board of Trustees of the Coast Community College District.

SOME CANDIDATES CHOSE TO PASS ON THIS ONE
I'm told that all the council candidates have been invited, but only Sandy Genis, John Stephens, Jay Humphrey and Al Melone will attend.  Apparently Steve Mensinger, Allan Mansoor and Lee Ramos have chosen to give this event a pass.

THIS SHOULD BE A GOOD ONE
In years past Mesa Verde Community, Inc., has presented an excellent program - an opportunity to hear the view of the candidates and also to present your own questions to them.  It's a shame that our incumbent mayor, former mayor and Ramos, all of whom share similar views on important issues in the city, have chosen to avoid questions by residents who are eager to learn their solutions to the problems facing the city.

MORE QUESTIONS NEED TO BE ANSWERED
Last week all the candidates except Melone participated in the Feet To The Fire Forum.  Melone chose to pass on that one, but was in the auditorium as an observer.  Those of us who attended that event learned a lot about the candidates, but many of us had more questions about the eight ballot measures and more.  This forum provides an opportunity for those questions to be asked.

ATTEND AND REMEMBER IN NOVEMBER
Please attend this event, and remember who chose to duck it.  Only the future of the city is at stake.

**FIRST IMPRESSIONS VIDEO
It's my understanding, from information received following the original publishing of this post, that First Impressions Video will be taping this forum for later viewing via YouTube, Vimeo and any place else available.  More information on the availability later.

City Fails Another Transparency Test

GOOD GRIEF!
Geez, a guy can't take a couple days off to enjoy the holiday made possible by the labors of others without the wheels coming off here at home!  I'll address the Barbara Venezia column in a separate post.

A HUGE DECISION BY THE CITY
First, and most important, is the decision by the City of Costa Mesa to NOT televise and replay the City Council Candidate Forum to be hosted by the Eastside Costa Mesa Neighbors Group on October 2nd.

CONVOLUTED RESPONSE
Last week I wrote to City Communication Director Bill Lobdell, asking whether Costa Mesa Television (CMTV) would be recording the two remaining candidate forums this cycle - the Feet To The Fire Forum on September 18th and the Eastside Costa Mesa Neighbors Group forum on October 2nd.  The answer he sent me - as I was literally walking out the door for a long holiday weekend on Thursday - reads as follows:

Earlier this year, the city agreed to use public resources to record and broadcast the Mesa Verde Community, Inc. and Feet to the Fire City Council debates.

After the city made those commitments, Mal Richardson, special counsel in charge of election issues, advised that the city needed to be politically neutral, and, therefore, it should not utilize public resources for the recording and broadcasting of political debates hosted by private entities.

In addition, Richardson—who is with the law firm of Best, Best and Krieger—expressed concern that once the city agreed to participate in one political debate, it would have legal difficulty declining the request of any other group wanting the city to record and broadcast its debate.

City officials decided to honor their previous commitments to Mesa Verde Community, Inc. and Feet to the Fire, but, on the advice of counsel, will not participate in any political debates going forward.

BETTER LATE...

It was too late for me to do anything about that except to reply to him that I thought it smelled of politics and I hoped the City would reconsider.  I didn't have the technology available to me over the weekend so didn't write about it until now.  Segments of the note have been referred to elsewhere, but I thought you should see it verbatim.

ZINT COVERED - RAMOS DECLINES TO SHOW, AGAIN

In the meantime, Bradley Zint wrote about the issue in the Daily Pilot, HERE.  Some of the quotations he included, and later added to, made me smile.  I particularly enjoyed Lee Ramos' comment that he wasn't going to attend the Eastside Forum - stiffing them just as he did for the recent Mesa Verde Community, Inc., forum, but "I have many friends on both sides.  I have no disrespect to them at all."  Really, old fella?  Now he's managed to alienate TWO powerful, active community organizations, including one that represents the neighborhood in which he, and I, live.  He told Zint that his campaign committee decided "some time ago" to not have him participate in those two - only the Feet To The Fire Forum.  Seems like strange advice, unless they suspected he might shoot himself in the foot at the others.  Funny - it seems like he's already done that.

WHINING AND BULLYING

At the last forum conducted by my Eastside neighbors two years ago Mayor Pro Tem Steve Mensinger was VERY unhappy about the questions and his buddy, Mayor Jim Righeimer, accosted members of the leadership of the group and the forum moderator immediately following the event, berating them for what he thought were "unfair and slanted" questions.  As others have mentioned, this tirade happened in front of his daughter.  Nice life lesson!  Bullying 101!

ANTI-EASTSIDE GROUP BIAS

It's obvious from this, and other recent events, that the current power elite in this city are very unhappy with my friends in the Eastside Costa Mesa Neighbors Group and are clearly using their political power to disenfranchise them during this election cycle.  Another example of that attitude is Planning Commission Chair - and council majority lapdog - Jim Fitzpatrick's recent calling out of the President of the Eastside Costa Mesa Neighbors Group, real estate agent Jeff McConville, at the last commission meeting because he didn't do back flips supporting a proposed development on the Eastside.

THE EASTSIDE FORUM MUST BE COVERED!

The note from Lobdell, above, is more than a little contradictory, but it is clear what should happen.  Because CMTV has already taped and replayed the Mesa Verde Community, Inc., forum, and plans to do the same for the Feet To The Fire Forum, they ABSOLUTELY MUST provide the same coverage for the Eastside Costa Mesa Neighbors Group! 

MORE RIGHEIMER POSTURING

In an added comment in his article Zint quotes Righeimer as committing to pay half the cost of recording and broadcasting the Eastside forum.  We think that "offer" is just so much political posturing.  We're presuming he'd try to get his buddy,  majority supporter Barry Friedland of Costa Mesa Brief, to do the job, then do an editing job favorable for his side.

ONE MORE ATTEMPT TO STIFLE DISCUSSION

Righeimer is  quoted as saying, "I'm hoping my fellow council candidates will join me in this effort to make sure Costa Mesa voters are as informed as possible before casting their votes in November."  I agree, and the best way to do that is to have Costa Mesa Television cover the event and provide the replay via their normal outlets on CMTV and streaming video.  Anything less would demonstrate to the voters of this city that this is just one more way for the mayor and his pals to stifle public participation in the political discourse in our city.

WRITE TO HATCH

Since we have a little time, I suggest those of you who feel the same way take a few minutes to drop a little note to City CEO Tom Hatch, HERE, and request - or demand - that this bogus decision be reversed and that he instruct Dane Bora and Brad Long of Costa Mesa Television to cover the Eastside Costa Mesa Neighbors Group candidate forum on October 2nd.  AND, I hope all of you will join me at that event - in recent years it has been the best of the bunch.

Candidate Forum Replay Schedule

DON'T MISS THOSE MAGIC MOMENTS!
For those of you who missed the City Council Candidate Forum hosted by Mesa Verde Community, Inc. Thursday evening, the following is the replay schedule for the 2 hour, 10 minute program on Costa Mesa Television, Channel 3 on Time Warner Cable and Channel 99 on ATT U-Verse.

STREAMING VIDEO NOT UP YET
As of this posting the streaming video of the meeting is not yet available.  When it does become available you will be able to find it HERE. 

FORM YOUR OWN OPINIONS
You've read what I wrote about it, HERE,  and what Bradly Zint wrote in the Daily Pilot, HERE.  Now view it for yourselves.  Watch each candidate respond to the questions and form your OWN opinions.  Watch Rita Louise Simpson show up late to the podium, then seem perpetually lost during the entire evening.

THE BULLY IN ACTION
Watch your mayor attempt to bully other candidates and talk longer than permitted by the rules.  Sound familiar?  It should - that's his modus operandi - to stifle opposing views and make up his own rules as he goes along.

YOU PICK'EM
Decide which candidate(s) YOU think did the best Thursday evening.  I thought Katrina Foley and Jay Humphrey looked steady and ready.  I thought Chris Bunyan and Tony Capitelli did well - better than I anticipated.  I thought Al Melone did better than two years ago, but still demonstrates an incomplete grasp of important issues.  I thought Jim Righeimer demonstrated the character flaws that he's shown us since he took office.  However, YOU watch and YOU decide.  But, don't look for Lee Ramos - he had better things to do Thursday night.

 FEET TO THE FIRE UP NEXT
 Next stop, the Feet To The Fire Forum on September 18th at Orange Coast College.

Mesa Verde Community, Inc. Forum Wrap

AN INFORMATIVE EVENING
There was value for most of the 150 or so people who sat in the audience at the Costa Mesa City Council Candidate Forum hosted by Mesa Verde Community, Inc. for a little over two hours last night.  Even those of us who follow politics closely learned a few new things, and had some old opinions reinforced.

MONEY WELL SPENT ON RAMOS?
Seven of the eight candidates participated.  Lee Ramos apparently chose to blow this forum off.  He wasn't missed, but I suspect those folks who have made him the second-highest campaign contribution collector might have been wondering about how they spent their money.

A NICE TOUCH...
The formal part of the evening was preceded by a "meet and greet" period, which included background music by Michael Donohoe - a nice touch.

A RESPECTFUL CROWD
The crowd of around 150 people was, for the most part, attentive and respectful.  I recognized about a third of that number.  The rest were new faces.  Most sat quietly in their seats, listening intently, although there were some Righeimer supporters lurking in the back of the room. 

WYRICK OFF HIS GAME
Moderator Darnell Wyrick, President of Mesa Verde Community, Inc., was off his game last night.  Although the event was scripted, he managed to botch things right from the start.  He forgot to let the candidates present themselves and didn't offer them a chance for a closing presentation.  Plus, in the midst of the event he continually got confused about which candidate was to speak next.  And, throughout the evening he referred to the candidates as "Mr." or "Mrs." - except for Jim Righeimer, to whom he referred as "Mayor Righeimer" every single time.

THE FORMAT

The format was to ask each of the candidates the same question, rotating the chance to answer first with each new question.  The candidates got two minutes each to answer the first three questions, one minute each for the next three, then thirty seconds each for a few more.  The pace was brisk.

A NICE WOMAN, BUT...
Let me say here that I introduced myself to candidate Rita Louise Simpson and also met her husband before the program began.  She seems like a very nice woman, but she is absolutely clueless on almost every important city issue!  She supports the Charter and wants something done about the Unfunded Pension Liability, but doesn't understand why in either case.  When she did talk about those issues she apparently was reading from a script - or so it seemed - straight from Tea Party Tom Pollitt's playbook.  It was sad to watch.

THE CHARTER
Wyrick's first question asked the candidates their opinion of The Charter.  Chris Bunyan, Katrina Foley and Jay Humphrey do not support the Charter.  Tony Capitelli, Simpson and Righeimer supported it and Al Melone told us that, while he supports the Charter, he's not enthusiastic about it and thinks it's getting too much attention.

DEVELOPMENT
The next question asked about their views on Development.  Capitelli told us it's the council's responsibility to add value to the community, but expressed concern about parking and open space.  Foley was for balanced growth and cited her time on the Planning Commission and City Council when the negative impacts of developments were considered.  She stressed quality of life issues.

JAY AND AL
Humphrey spoke of the General Plan update in which he participated when last on the council, citing the need for development plans to be consistent with the approved General Plan.  he referred to unbridled growth to cancer.  Melone went off on a tangent about taxes and the proliferation of fast food restaurants.

MAYOR BLAMES OCC AND 55 FREEWAY
Then it was Righeimer's turn and he deflected any criticism of his regime's development frenzy by blaming Orange Coast College for growth and the 55 Freeway for traffic.  He spoke of the development plans in the works for OCC and said "nobody says a word about that!"  Simpson said, "I've seen some of the developments.  The traffic is doing fine."  As I said, she's clueless.

BUNYAN ON HIS GAME
Bunyan gave the best response, citing the transient nature of the OCC students, the recently approved apartment complex at 125 Baker Street and mentioned the very pro-development City Council.

UNFUNDED PENSION LIABILITY
They were then asked how to manage the unfunded pension liability.  Foley cited the recent agreement in which the Miscellaneous Employees agreed to a higher contribution, mentioned that this is not just a local problem, but a state and federal issue, too.  She encouraged a more collaborative approach with the employees - change the hostile work atmosphere.  She said the current council just talks about it but does nothing to fix the problem.  Humphrey suggested a one-time pay out option for our pensions.

AL AND THE MAYOR
Melone said he doesn't believe in paying down the liability, stating that as long as the City remained financially solvent the pensions will just keep on being paid.   Righeimer went on one of his "we love our police and our fire" rants, accused Foley of quitting the council, said "people don't understand the math."  He, condescendingly, made a reference to "the adults showing up to negotiate for the employees" and feigned anger about the issue.  It was way, way too contrived.

MORE VIEWS
Simpson said the pension liability is unbelievable.  Duh!  Bunyan said the days of sweet pension deals are over, then criticized CalPERS for its role in this mess.

HE WAS RIGHT...
Then Capitelli criticized the participants for their hostility - a comment obviously directed at Righeimer, and said, "It's time to stop posturing and work toward solutions."  Yep.

QUALIFICATIONS?
Then came the one-minute-response questions.  The first one asked the candidates what made them qualified for a council seat.  Humphrey cited his previous council experience, his 37-year residence in the City and his long, successful business career.  Melone cited his CPA and MBA and his ability to analyze issues.

REST ON HIS RECORD - GREAT!

Righeimer said, "I'll rest on my record.", then blasted Foley for being part of a council that "blew through $35 million in reserves" - neglecting to mention that she helped build those reserves and they were available when they were needed during the severe economic downturn.  He patted himself on the back for being responsible for "$40 million in roads and alleys" - which he was not.  He said, "Sometimes when you make an omelet you have to break a few eggs.", as though that was relevant to something.  Then he said "Sometimes you have to be an adult."  He sometimes speaks in tongues - this was one of those times.  Personally, I was very happy to hear him say he would rest on his record.  That record is one of dictatorial arrogance, bullying, rule-breaking and failure to plan before acting, which has resulted in millions of dollars in unnecessary legal fees.

OTHERS
Simpson cited her experience as a teacher and her time at the Auto Club.  Capitelli cited his law degree, his years working as a federal government employee and his experience and interest in housing issues.  He stressed his collaborative approach.  Foley cited her proven record of getting things done, and used as examples her time on the council when those street improvements actually began; the fact that she helped fight off the sale of the OC Fairgrounds and improve the traffic situation on Broadway.  She cited her successful business in Newport Beach and said, as a lawyer, she knew how to collaborate.

GOALS
The next question asked, "If elected, what are their first three goals".  Melone said a moritorium on development and controlling the coyote problem.  Righeimer said just continue the current direction.  Simpson echoed him, then said she thought we should do something about the Homeless because "they are dangerous."  As I said....

BUNYAN AND CAPITELLI
Bunyan fired off five ideas: 1) Put Public Comments back at the beginning of Council meetings; 2)more affordable, transitional housing; 3) Stop high density development; 4) More government transparency and 5) Resolve the illegal trail in Fairview Park.  Capitelli also cited the need for affordable, transitional housing, the return of the Illumination Foundation, the need for more mental health workers and the need to NOT kick out the motels, which provide housing.

FOLEY AND HUMPHREY
Foley said she wanted to stop the rising costs of legal fees, which she said are now at $175,000 per month!  She also cited the need to bring public safety staffing back up to a proper level, to NOT close Fire Station #6 and a balanced General Plan.  Humphrey agreed about the Public Comments and the staffing of public safety positions

WESTSIDE OVERLAYS
They were then asked about changing the Westside Overlays.  Righeimer said the question is incorrect, that the projects don't generate more traffic, the 55 Freeway does.  Simpson had no answer.  Bunyan disagreed with Righeimer, citing the traffic snarl at 17th Street and Newport Boulevard and suggested more attention be paid to the General Plan Circulation Element.

ANOTHER LOOK
Capitelli said it's time to take a second look at the Overlays.  Foley recalled the original approvals and intent and said the implementation is off the mark.  Humphrey said the plans have been corrupted, increasing density.  Melone agreed with him.

ZONING CHANGES
The next question asked about the changes in commercial zoning.  Simpson had no answer, then complained about the "Alzheimer homes".... As I said...  Bunyan said a side effect of the changes are a loss of harmonious areas.  He said we should keep existing businesses.  Capitelli said he's in favor of small businesses..

SOLID ANSWERS
Foley said she favors a balanced approach, citing the need to retain the "small town feel".    Humphrey agreed, and said we are driving businesses out of the city.  He also cited the increase in high density developments.  Melone made some remark about his mechanic having a better breeze at his Westside shop than Melone has in Mesa Verde.

MAYOR BLAMES FOLEY
Righeimer blamed Foley for the density!

BANNING RANCH
Then began the questions with 30 second responses.  The first was about Banning Ranch.  Bunyan said "Save Banning Ranch."  Capitelli said we can't do much since it's in Newport Beach.  Foley agreed, and stated that we will get 100% of the traffic from the project.

DISASTER AND PLACING BLAME
Melone described it as a "impending disaster".  Righeimer blamed it on previous councils and said the Coastal Commission may approve a smaller development.  Simpson said it's similar to Fairview Park.. As I said...

FAIRVIEW PARK
They were then asked about Fairview Park.  Capitelli said the park should be protected.  Foley agreed 100% and that the current Master Plan should be followed.  Humphrey said keep it as natural as possible and referred to the current activities of the US Fish and Wildlife in the park.

INDIANS...
Melone agreed with the previous. Righeimer said continue the current Master Plan.  Simpson said she was glad "the Indians came to talk with us."  As I said...  Bunyan said protect Fairview Park - "save it, don't pave it".

BUDGET PRIORITIES
Next came a question about Budget priorities.  Foley said reduce the legal fees.  Humphrey, inexplicably, seemed to have a major brain burp and came up with a mumbled statement about keeping the city fiscally sound.  Melone said paving the streets was good, but spending money to re-landscape medians is unnecessary, and that we should be re-building our reserves.

BUNYAN COMMENT
Righeimer went into a song and dance about having a $135 million budget and said we "don't budget to build reserves, but sometimes we have a surplus."  Simpson muttered something about the Charter and Unfunded Pensions.  Bunyan said the Charter can't do much but "Jim would burn down the city to get it passed".  Capitelli suggested Supportive Housing be at the top of the list.

SOBER LIVING HOMES
Next up were questions from the floor.  This is where things got more than a little muddled.  Wyrick attempted to blend a few questions into one, or one and a half.  Anyhow, it began with the Sober Living homes and what we can and should be doing about them.  Humphrey, first at bat on this one, said it's a complicated issue and that we should be seeing what other cities are doing.

AND MORE
Melone hadn't studied it.  Righeimer said there are 200 such home in the city, mentioned his new Task Force - which has shown no results yet, by the way.  Humphrey wondered why there was no ballot measure on this one.  Simpson made a peculiar comment about tobacco addiction.  Bunyan referred to the amicus brief Costa Mesa filed to assist Newport Beach with its law suit.  Foley said we should be working with regulators to block whole neighborhoods.

CMPD STRENGTH
Then came question asking when we would be at full strength in the CMPD.  Melone said they are "working day and night" to hire new people.  Righeimer said Chief Gazsi is doing a great job, that we'll add 20 more people before the end of the year and that "We'll be fine."  Really?   Well, I guess that's all we need to know!  Yes sir, staffing is off 30%, our cops are working horrendous overtime hours and "We'll be fine."  Thanks, Mr. Mayor.

RIGHEIMER INTERRUPTS - IS SHOUTED DOWN
I missed Simpson's and Bunyan's responses.  When Capitelli tried to answer by stating that he's been told we have only 5 cops on patrol at a time Righiemer interrupted him and tried to speak over him.  The audience shouted him down!  Foley said it's important to increase the staffing levels because crime is on the increase.  Give the chief the freedom to hire.  Humphrey cited the reasons for the loss of officers - the hostile workplace and the hiring freeze.

LIBRARY
Next came a question about a library.  Righeimer said we have a good plan to convert "this building" into a library and turn the existing library building into a meeting room.  It would only cost $4-6 million.  Simpson said it sounds like a good idea, then said "The homeless know where they are."  As I said...

MESA VERDE
Bunyan cited the Mesa Verde Library and said it needs some TLC.  Capitelli said he likes the mayor's plan.  Foley said support the Friends of the Library and agreed about the Mesa Verde Library.

RAID ON FUNDS
Humphrey said he strongly supported funding a library, then referred to the recent "raid" of the library funds in the budget to re-plant brand new medians in Mesa Verde.  Melone said it's more important to re-build the "rainy day fund".

PARK FEES FOR APARTMENTS?
Next was a question about why apartment developers exempt from paying park fees.  Actually, it took awhile for that question to get fleshed out.  Simpson had no answer.  Bunyan said, "Ask Jim that one."  Capitelli had no answer.  Foley said the staff is working on a plan to charge park fees for apartment developments.  Humphrey concurred and expanded on that idea.

SHARING TIME... NOPE
Melone tried to give Righeimer his time.  He was rebuffed.  Righeimer quoted the Quimby Act, which maybe two people in the audience understood.

60TH ANNIVERSARY SCANDAL
Then came the question about the 60th Anniversary expenditures.  Bunyan said people have not come forth with reasons for the overspending.  Wondered who was watching.  Capitelli said it clearly was mismanaged.  Foley cited the need for proper checks and balances.  Humphrey said it was mismanaged across the board and cited the no-bid contracts.  Melone said it just confirmed a feeling he had that the City was not well-managed.  Righeimer dodged the personnel issues and wondered who was supposed to sign off on the charges.  Simpson said it was a one-time deal.... Oh, well...

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
When asked about how to bring balance to economic development, Capitelli said provide more support to small businesses.  Foley said focus on tourism, including raising the TOT.  Humphrey said stop driving businesses away from Costa Mesa.  Melone liked tourism, then complained that businesses bring traffic!  Good grief!  He said he was grateful for South Coast Plaza.

GREAT SHAPE!
Righeimer did a riff on how our city brings in more Sales Tax dollars than any other city of similar size.  He said, "The City is in great financial shape!"  Simpson said she liked South Coast Plaza because you can park there.  As I said...  Bunyan said play to our strengths - being the City of the Arts and the apparel industry.

UNION OR DEVELOPER FUNDS?
They were then asked about campaign funding, and if they received any outside finances from unions or developers and how much.  Foley said she received about $18,000, of which $7,500 came from the Newport Beach Police Association and $2,500 from another police agency - the Sheriff's, I believe.  The remainder comes from Costa Mesa residents.

RIGHEIMER SNAPS BACK
Humphrey said 100% from Costa Mesa residents.  Melone said he's taking no contributions.   Righeimer then went on a rant about Foley's admission about the contributions, but didn't answer the question.  Simpson said she's not taking any.  Righeimer, in response to jeering from the crowd, said, "It's a public record - look it up!"

CHRIS AND TONY
 Bunyan said "Zero and Zero", but that the bulk of Jim's are coming from outside.  Capitelli said "Zero and Zero", and that he'd raised $19,000 from family and friends.  Foley talked about the need to raise funds for campaigning.

TOLL LANES
Then there was a confusing question that turned out to be about the ballot measure Righeimer proposed for November giving the voters a chance to sign in on the proposed toll lanes on the I-405 freeway.  Foley said she opposes the "Lexus Lanes", but that it didn't need to be on the ballot.  Humphrey opposes the toll lanes, but also wondered why it needed to be on the ballot.  Melone said it's like Banning Ranch - we have no control over it.

DIDN'T ANSWER THE QUESTION
Righeimer riffed about the toll roads costing $1.3 billion and that he wanted to put the issue on the ballot so the voters could tell the governor how we felt.  Simpson said we paid for the road and that they need to be maintained... clueless.  Bunyan didn't favor the toll roads and thought the ballot measure was only symbolic.  Capitelli said we all want to stop the toll road.

VOTING DISTRICTS?
Finally came a question about dividing the city into voting districts.  Righeimer said the City is too small for districts and that he's not real positive about it.  Humphrey said the residents could request the change whether a Charter or General Law City, and said the city is not big enough.

MIXED VIEWS
Foley used the School Board as an example of why it's not necessary.  Melone said we should just elect the best people, regardless where they live.  Capitelli said districts might take some dollars out of campaigning.  Bunyan said they would make campaigning easier.

WATCH IT YOURSELVES LATER
Whew!  I'm sure you're even more tired of reading this tome than I am of writing it!  The folks from CMTV were filming the event and it will enter the playlist rotation next Tuesday at noon.  Check the city web site for the actual times.  It will also be available on streaming video in a couple days.

A GOOD FIRST EVENT
So, my take on the meeting... it was worthwhile, but needed a tighter rein.  I'm grateful to the good folks at Mesa Verde Community, Inc., for holding the event.  I'm sorry they didn't do a better job of publicizing it - there were a lot of empty seats.

OUTCOME PREDICTABLE
I was not surprised at how it went.  Rita Simpson is clueless about most issues.  Al Melone knows more than he did two years ago, but not much.

TWO BRIGHT GUYS
Chris Bunyan is back and, quite honestly, added a lot to the discussion last night.  Tony Capitelli is clearly a bright young guy with an equally bright future.  I liked most of his answers, but not all of them.  Unless something changes between now and when I mail my ballot, he won't get my vote.

STEADY AND READY
Katrina Foley and Jay Humphrey demonstrated that they've got what it takes to be elected to the council again.  Both have the experience, expertise, intelligence, compassion and patience to do a good job for the residents.

HE SHOWED US WHO HE IS...
Jim Righeimer demonstrated for the audience just why he should NOT be re-elected.  He's an arrogant, dictatorial, condescending bully.  He interrupted several speakers because they challenged what he said.  He decided to keep speaking when his time was up because he decided it was important.  That's his style.  The rules are for somebody else.  He told us he will "rest on his record".  Great, because it's a record of fiscal irresponsibility, chaos and divisiveness.  I look forward to the next forum - the Feet To The Fire Forum - on September 18th.  Maybe my neighbor, Old Lee Ramos will show up for that one.

HANG ON!
It's going to be a very painful campaign season.  Tighten your chin straps...