LAST MINUTE AGENDA INFORMATION -
REVISED
08/06/2025 Regular City Council Meeting
(Agenda Related Writings/Documents provided to a majority of the City Council after distribution of the Agenda Packet for the August 6, 2025, meeting.) ITEM
NO. SUBJECT TITLE DESCRIPTION
11.a
DISCUSSION REGARDING OPTIONS AND
POSSIBLE ACTION TO FILL VACANCY IN
ELECTED MAYORAL POSITION. (0410-95)
a. Correspondence from Chad Stevens
b. Correspondence from Erika Lowery
c. Correspondence from Jarrod Caswell
d. Correspondence from Margaret
Williamson
e. Correspondence from Brooke
Truesdale
f. Correspondence from Pat and Kris
Fowler
g. Correspondence from Russell “Buck”
Buchanan
h. Correspondence from Bridget A.
Cartier
i. Correspondence from Michael
Williams
j. Correspondence from Brenda
Bautista
k. Correspondence from Robert Lucas
l. Correspondence from Elsie Sleeter
m.Correspondence from Gerri WoodHermann
n. Correspondence from Liisa Thomas
o. Correspondence from Rita Davidson
p. Correspondence from Briana Bilbray
From: Chad Stevens
To: Public Comments
Cc: chad stevens
Subject: ITEM 11A
Date: Sunday, August 3, 2025 6:26:45 PM
Attachments: Item 11A.pdf
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Please add attachment to last minute agenda.
Thanks
Chad Stevens
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
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a.1 08/06/25 Last Minute Agenda Information
Honorable Council.
I am a long time resident of Imperial Beach. I wish I was able to attend tonight’s meeting because this is an important topic that I feel strongly about.
This situation that the City of Imperial Beach finds itself in is not a new one. There is governance showing how we are to proceed. There is also justification for immediate action to take place.
By state law, the primary option to fill the term of the mayor is by appointment. This is the method I would strongly advocate for. I am not someone who takes a deep dive into public entities’ budgets, but I know someone who does. The advice I have received is that the city does not have the money available in our current budget to proceed with an election to fulfill the term.
Also due to the process to elect a full council, it would be only a matter of months that we would have a full council if one or more of the seated council would run for the open mayor position.
We could be in a year long cycle of special elections to fill seats, when a more fiscally and ethically responsible method is appointing people to fill the positions.
We must first and foremost think of what is best for the city.
We reside in a representative democracy, where representative is the first part. Our council has been elected to represent the city in various roles - from SANDAG to MTS to the Chamber and more. These are people that represent the city as a whole already.
Appoint one of the sitting council members to the office of Mayor. It is the right and prudent thing to do for our city.
Sincerely,
Chad M Stevens
a.2 08/06/25 Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Erika Lowery (via Google Docs)
To: Public Comments
Subject: Item 11A
Date: Sunday, August 3, 2025 7:04:10 PM
Attachments: Item 11A.pdf
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Erika Lowery attached a document
Erika Lowery ) has attached the
following document:
Please include in last minute agenda items.
Item 11A
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b.1 08/06/25 Last Minute Agenda Information
Greetings Elected Council of Imperial Beach,
Each of you was elected by your district to represent the residents of the district and the city at large.
You are each a current representative of the city. Every time you wear the polo shirt, or lapel pin, or are introduced, you are representing each and every resident of Imperial Beach.
It is time to fill a vacancy on the dias. I will not go into how self-serving it was for our mayor to relinquish her position mid-term, but here we are. It is time to fill the position.
The most financially responsible means is by appointment. A few months ago, you approved the two year budget. There was a measly budget surplus. Not near enough to cover the costs associated with a single election, but definitely not enough to cover two. One election is estimated to be TEN TIMES our budget surplus or more. That would mean drastic cuts in services for each of our citizens.
Also, state law gives guidance for how mid-term vacancies should be handled. I fully believe that, for once, the state is giving good advice. The state says that the elected body should first pursue an appointment to fill the mid-term vacancy.
Each of you on the dias is a sitting representative of the city and I believe that anyone of you can fill the vacancy.
Do I have a preference? Yes, I believe the best suited is my own district representative. But any of you already fill the qualifications.
Please, fill the vancany of the mayor’s office with an appointment. And Councilman McKay, I strongly support you if you choose to pursue it.
Humbly and Sincerely,
Erika Lowery
b.2 08/06/25 Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Jarrod Caswell
To: Public Comments
Subject: Mayor public comment
Date: Monday, August 4, 2025 11:16:31 AM
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I would like there to be a motion to pass if say, Mitch, finished out the mayor's term he could get his seat back on the council or say Matt I don’t think it’s right to have someone have to step up and then loose there seat over something someone else did.. we don’t need to waste money on a election for council or mayor.
Or maybe we go without a mayor and elect another person from the city and just have a council that runs IB. It seems like giving just one person that much power to only get their opinion out there doesn’t seem right when speaking on behalf of a diverse community.. maybe elect a military person to speak on the other percentage of are residents they are a big part of are population. I don't know just a thought .
c.1 08/06/25 Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Margaret Williamson
To: Public Comments
Subject: Next Imperial Beach Mayor - Selection, or Vote Date: Monday, August 4, 2025 1:07:39 PM
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Hello Imperial Beach Council Members
As a long time citizen of Imperial Beach, I would like to weigh in and give you some input for your August 6th meeting at which you will decide to appoint, or hold an election for the position of Mayor of Imperial Beach.
Research tells me an election would cost the city and taxpayers anywhere from $150 to $300 thousand dollars. It would not make fiscal sense to spend that kind of money on a partial - 17 or 16 month mayoral term.
You have qualified people currently serving on the city council. I recommend an appointment from within to fill the mayoral position and a selection of a qualified candidate from whatever district that councilperson vacates. That would be the fiscally responsible thing to do.
Respectfully,
Margaret Williamson
Imperial Beach Resident
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d.1 08/06/25 Last Minute Agenda Information
From:
To: Public Comments
Subject: Public comment for agenda item 11A- August 6th City Council meeting Date: Monday, August 4, 2025 1:39:53 PM
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To the Honorable Members of the Imperial Beach City Council, I am writing as a concerned resident to respectfully urge the Council to prioritize transparency and community participation in the process of filling the vacant mayoral seat.
The people of Imperial Beach deserve a voice in choosing who will serve as our next mayor.
This important decision should not be made behind closed doors or without meaningful public input. We call for an open, transparent process that includes public dialogue, clear criteria for selection, and genuine opportunities for community engagement. Residents must be able to understand how and why a particular candidate is chosen.
Additionally, all applicants should be asked if they plan to run in the next mayoral election.
Appointing someone who intends to campaign creates an unfair advantage and risks undermining the integrity of our democratic process.
Finally, we urge the Council to consider forming an ad hoc committee that includes Imperial Beach residents—so that the decision-making process reflects the voices and values of our community, not solely those of elected officials.
Thank you for your service and for considering this request for a fair and inclusive process.
Sincerely,
Brooke Truesdale
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e.1 08/06/25 Last Minute Agenda Information
From: COAST COTTAGE
To: Public Comments
Subject: Public Comments for 8/6/25 City Council Meeting Date: Monday, August 4, 2025 8:15:18 PM
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"Decades in Imperial Beach gives insight into local needs—a strong community, not overdevelopment. Citizens want control of their future. Mitch McKay has the determination to restore balance. Mitch stands up for our river valley, our beaches, and for our people. This is about us, not greater San Diego.” Thank you,
Pat and Kris Fowler
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f.1 08/06/25 Last Minute Agenda Information
From: RUSSEL BUCHANAN
To: Public Comments
Subject: CITY COUNCILE MEETING 08-06-2025 AGENDA ITEM 11 Date: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 5:25:36 PM
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After having lived in Imperial Beach for 52
years, I can think of no other person than
Mitch McKay for the position of mayor. His
sole purpose of getting you're ok at tonight's
City councel is to make IMPERIAL BEACH a
better place. Good Luck!!!!!!!
Russell “Buck” Buchanan
DOD Chief of Police CNRSW Ret.
Master At Arms Chief, USN Ret.
(Vietnam Combat Craft Crewman)
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g.1 08/06/25 Last Minute Agenda Information
From: bridget cartier
To: Public Comments
Subject: City Council Meeting August 6, 2025/Item 11a.
Date: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 11:34:46 PM
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Imperial Beach needs and deserves a mayor who is grounded. The person who should fill this role should be someone who is able to be bipartisan; have the best interests for all of Imperial Beach's residents and businesses while also promoting the city's economy and its' safety as priorities. This person should also be diplomatic and have the ability to listen and understand other's perspectives. This person should not be someone who wants to use this position for their own special interests or for personal gain. Should the counsel decide to select an interim mayor, I support Mitch McKay. He has demonstrated all of the qualities needed to lead our little city until the next election.
Respectfully,
Bridget A. Cartier
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h.1 08/06/25 Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Michael Williams
To: Public Comments
Subject: ITEM 11a
Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 8:43:46 AM
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As a long-time resident of Imperial Beach, I believe it would be an unnecessary expense to hold a special election to fill the mayoral vacancy. The City Council has experienced councilmembers who can fill the position. The voters will have a chance to select a new mayor at the next regularly scheduled election.
I support Councilmember Mitch McKay to fill the mayor's position in the interim.
Michael Williams
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i.1 08/06/25 Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Brenda Bautista
To: Public Comments
Cc: Brenda Bautista; Universal Printing & Signs
Subject: 8-6-25 Public Comments Regarding Vacant Mayor Position Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 10:34:24 AM
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Dear IB City Council,
I am writing today to express my deep and profound desire to have the City Council hold an INCLUSIVE, objective, transparent, and democratic appointment process to allow IB citizens to weigh in on who our next IB Mayor will be.
The following are ideas on how to implement this:
Create an ad hoc committee comprised of citizens who represent the community; Do not appoint a sitting councilmember as Mayor as this would not allow for sufficient public input.
Have the vacancy filled by a District election if there are more than a few months left in the appointed member's term; A District election would be considerably less costly than an at large election.
To avoid creating an advantage for an unelected incumbent, Council could ask applicants if they will commit to not run for reelection;
Require Applicants to provide detailed answers to very basic and specific questions about important issues in IB.
The appointee has to represent the values and needs of our entire community (not just equity investors who want to buy up properties to remodel and increase rent) and reflect our cultural, economic, social, and political diversity. Renters make up 69% of the population in IB.
In conclusion, I have spoken to many other IB residents and there are many of us that would like an inclusive democratic appointment process for choosing a new mayor. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Brenda Bautista
IB Constituent
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j.1 08/06/25 Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Robert Lucas
To: Public Comments
Cc: Brenda Bautista; Robert Lucas
Subject: 8-6-25 Public Comments Regarding Vacant Mayor Position Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 10:42:08 AM
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Dear IB City Council,
I am writing today to express my deep and profound desire to have the City Council hold an INCLUSIVE, objective, transparent, and democratic appointment process to allow IB citizens to weigh in on who our next IB Mayor will be.
The following are ideas on how to implement this:
Create an ad hoc committee comprised of citizens who represent the community; Do not appoint a sitting councilmember as Mayor as this would not allow for sufficient public input.
Have the vacancy filled by a District election if there are more than a few months left in the appointed member's term; A District election would be considerably less costly than an at large election.
To avoid creating an advantage for an unelected incumbent, Council could ask applicants if they will commit to not run for reelection;
Require Applicants to provide detailed answers to very basic and specific questions about important issues in IB.
The appointee has to represent the values and needs of our entire community (not just equity investors who want to buy up properties to remodel and increase rent) and reflect our cultural, economic, social, and political diversity. Renters make up 69% of the population in IB.
In conclusion, I have spoken to many other IB residents and there are many of us that would like an inclusive democratic appointment process for choosing a new mayor. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Robert Lucas
IB Constituent
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k.1 08/06/25 Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Elsie Sleeter
To: Public Comments
Subject: comments for city council meeting tonight attention Jack Fisher Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 11:29:44 AM
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Elsie Sleeter
Good Evening Members of the Imperial Beach City Council My representative is Jack Fisher.
I think the best action is to hold an election as soon as possible. The town is simply too divided to accept an appointment for mayor for the next three and a half years. I know it is expensive; it is still the best option.
--
Cheers,
Elsie Sleeter
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l.1 08/06/25 Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Geraldeen Wood-Hermann
To: Public Comments
Subject: City Council meeting Comments
Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 11:46:50 AM
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Dear IB City Council,
I am writing today to express my deep and profound desire to have the City Council hold an INCLUSIVE, objective, transparent, and democratic appointment process to allow IB citizens to weigh in on who our next IB Mayor will be.
The following are ideas on how to implement this:
Create an ad hoc committee comprised of citizens who represent the community; Do not appoint a sitting councilmember as Mayor as this would not allow for sufficient public input.
Have the vacancy filled by a District election if there are more than a few months left in the appointed member's term; A District election would be considerably less costly than an at large election.
To avoid creating an advantage for an unelected incumbent, Council could ask applicants if they will commit to not run for reelection;
Require Applicants to provide detailed answers to very basic and specific questions about important issues in IB.
The appointee has to represent the values and needs of our entire community (not just equity investors who want to buy up properties to remodel and increase rent) and reflect our cultural, economic, social, and political diversity. Renters make up 69% of the population in IB.
In conclusion, I have spoken to many other IB residents and there are many of us that would like an inclusive democratic appointment process for choosing a new mayor.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Gerri Wood-Hermann
8/6/25
Sent from my iPhone
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m.1 08/06/2025 Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Liisa Thomas
To: Public Comments
Subject: Agenda item 11.a
Date: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 4:05:17 PM
Attachments: Agenda item 11.a.docx
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Please see enclosed comment for public record on agenda item 11.a V/R,
Liisa Thomas
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n.1 08-06-2025 Last Minute Agenda Information
Imperial Beach City Council
825 Imperial Beach Blvd.
Imperial Beach, CA 91932
Re: Agenda item: 11.a Support for Councilman McKay to Fill Vacant Mayoral Position Dear Honorable Members of the Imperial Beach City Council, I am writing as a concerned and engaged resident of Imperial Beach to voice my strong support for Councilman McKay to be appointed as Mayor, filling the currently vacant position without the need for a costly special election.
Our city is at a critical crossroads. We are facing real and visible issues. Our parks are in disrepair, vital public buildings sit unused and deteriorating and many of our streets are in worsening condition. These challenges demand immediate, steady, and experienced leadership not delays or distractions caused by a special election for a term of only sixteen months.
A special election would come at an outrageous cost! Estimated in the vicinity of $400,000, this is an unjustifiable expense for a city already struggling to meet basic infrastructure and operational needs. That money would be far better spent addressing pressing issues such as restoring public facilities, street repairs, and adding at least one more desperately needed employee to our Public Works department.
Councilman McKay has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of our City’s needs and a proven commitment to practical solutions. His service on the Council shows that he is already trusted by the community, experienced in city matters and ready to lead without the costly delay of a special election.
Appointing Councilman McKay would ensure leadership continuity, fiscal responsibility and a focused response to the needs of our neighborhoods. This is not the time for political theater. It is the time for action, accountability, and stewardship of public funds.
I respectfully urge you to take the fiscally responsible and common-sense route by appointing Councilman McKay as Mayor of Imperial Beach.
Respectfully,
Liisa Thomas Imperial Beach Resident
n.2 08-06-2025 Last Minute Agenda Information
From: rita davidson
To: Public Comments
Subject: Mayor
Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 10:46:57 AM
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Please DO NOT spend any amount of money on this 7 month gap without a mayor. Please Appoint someone. IB should maintain a positive budget which I know can be challenging. V/R Rita Davidson
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o.1 08-06-2025 Last Minute Agenda Information
From: Briana Bilbray
To: Public Comments
Subject: Support for Appointment to Fill Mayoral Vacancy Date: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 11:17:20 AM
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I am writing to express my strong support for appointing someone to fill the current mayoral vacancy rather than holding a special election. Given the limited duration of the remaining term, the cost of a special election would be fiscally irresponsible and an inefficient use of public funds.
Furthermore, I wholeheartedly support the appointment of Councilman Mitch McKay to serve as Mayor. Councilman McKay has consistently demonstrated his leadership and dedication to the City of Imperial Beach. He has been our community’s strongest advocate—effectively engaging with both local and national government leaders—and has played a pivotal role in addressing the ongoing sewage crisis.
With critical decisions on the horizon, I am confident that Councilman McKay is best positioned to lead Imperial Beach forward and deliver meaningful progress for our residents.
Thank you for your consideration.
Briana Bilbray -
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p.1 08-06-2025 Last Minute Agenda Information