It will be musical chairs this year with the Laguna Beach City Council race.
Too many players, not enough seats.
Like every election, there are difficult decisions. Some might be obvious, others not so much. For candidate statements and related information, visit the city’s election site.
Incumbent Bob Whalen is the perennial nice guy. Even though it’s like his 47th year in office, he’s really good at it. His record speaks for itself. He’s passionate about the right things, and he thinks long-term, which is exactly what Laguna needs.
The challengers this year are veterans in their own right.
Judie Mancuso has been a spark plug at the state level for many years. Founder of Social Compassion in Legislation, she’s been fighting for the protection of the environment and animals. This is not her first attempt at a council seat, but she hopes it’s the right time.
Hallie Jones is a third-generation local who’s served as executive director of Laguna Canyon Foundation and is now the executive vice president of Crystal Cove Conservancy and an OC Parks Commissioner. While her focus has been environmental, she’s known for her wide world view – fair, collaborative and progressive.
When there are great candidates but not enough seats, it’s tough.
So what do you do? Some ask themselves whether the candidate would make an enjoyable dinner guest. That sometimes works. Others dig into their records or guess at party affiliation.
Whatever your method, just be sure to vote – for anyone except George Weiss.
