LAST MINUTE AGENDA INFORMATION
PACKET NO. 2
09/17/2025 Regular City Council Meeting
(Agenda Related Writings/Documents provided to a majority of the City Council after distribution of the Agenda Packet for the September 17, 2025, meeting.) ITEM
NO. SUBJECT TITLE DESCRIPTION
11.a
INTERVIEWS OF CITY COUNCIL
APPLICANTS WITH DISCUSSION AND
POSSIBLE ACTION TO MAKE
APPOINTMENT TO FILL VACANCY IN
CITY COUNCIL POSITION, DISTRICT 3.
(0410-40)
a. Correspondence from Anthony Angelini
b. Correspondence from Alexis Honorato
De La Torre
c. Correspondence from Steve Futterman
d. Correspondence from Cynthia Kaui
e. Correspondence from Bridget Mahoney
f. Correspondence from Cole and Hayley
Marting
g. Correspondence from Katie Rapoza
h. Correspondence from Mark Rizk
i. Correspondence from Liisa Thomas
j. Correspondence from Daniel Tovar
k. Correspondence from Amber Schad
l. Correspondence from Nayeli Martinez
m.Correspondence from Jarrod Caswell
n. Correspondence from Reshae Cuevas
(Acevez)
o. Correspondence from Briana Bilbray
p. Correspondence from Jose Chavez
From: Anthony Angelini
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11.A - Support for Candidate Mariko Nakawatase Date: Monday, September 15, 2025 2:34:38 PM
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Mariko Nakawatase is a dedicated and hardworking community member who would make a wonderful City Councilmember. I am happy to provide my recommendation for her appointment. She will serve with integrity and provide a fresh, much needed perspective to the position. Thank you.
- Anthony Angelini
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From: Alexis De La Torre
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11.A - Support for Candidate Mariko Nakawatse
Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025 10:17:35 AM
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Dear Imperial Beach City Council members,
This is Alexis Honorato De La Torre, a recent graduate of Mar Vista High school and an IB resident. I want to share why I’m so proud about Mariko Nakawatse running for city council. As my former Key Club advisor, Mariko wasn’t just someone who oversaw our school meetings, but was a true mentor who genuinely cared about the determination of the club and the community. Her motivational spirit has inspired me to be the best president I can be to lead our club. Mariko has also helped prepare me for the challenges of college life. Because of her, I’m even looking into joining Circle K (key club) now that I’m in college! I truly believe Mariko’s passion for helping others and her dedication to our community will make her an incredible person for the city council. She’s someone who invests in people, and that’s exactly the kind of leader needed for D3 city council.
Thank you!
Best regards, Alexis Honorato De La Torre
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From: Steve Futterman
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11.A-Support for Candidate Mariko Nakawatase
Date: Sunday, September 14, 2025 8:50:15 AM
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I am enthusiastically recommending that Mariko Nakawatase be appointed to fill the vacant district three city council seat.
My name is Steve Futterman. My wife and I have lived in district three since buying our home 24 years ago. I have the pleasure of working with Mariko in our voluntary philanthropic work developing projects that support the youth of Imperial Beach and South Bay.
During our volunteer time together, Mariko consistently proves an absolute commitment to improving the lives of the families and youth in our community. Her collaboration and leadership skills are impressive as a result of her academic achievements and current career in public administration supporting constituencies in San Diego County. Mariko has the professional, academic credentials and experience to understand complex strategies vital to competently serving the residents of district three. She knows public policy, understands council protocols, and communicates effectively in public settings. Consequently, Mariko is expected to perform at an elevated level of ability within an appropriate time frame.
Finally, as Mariko is part of a younger generation currently not represented on our council, she will bring fresh perspectives and vision that will encourage a new generation to take part in our civic affairs that will result in a more prosperous self-sufficient city.
Sincerely
Steve Futterman
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From: GMAIL
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11.A - Support for Candidate Mariko Nakawatase Date: Monday, September 15, 2025 1:50:54 PM
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Dear Mayor and Members of the Imperial Beach City Council, I am writing to offer my full support for the appointment of Mariko Nakawatase to the Imperial Beach City Council.
I have known Mariko for more than 14 years, since our high school days, and in that time I have consistently seen her demonstrate intelligence, integrity, and a deep commitment to serving others. From her early involvement in ROTC and Kiwanis to her continued civic engagement and work in local government, Mariko has built a long track record of investing in this community. Imperial Beach is her home, and she has always been dedicated to its growth and wellbeing.
Mariko is not only capable and hardworking, but she also leads with compassion and fairness. She listens, she builds bridges, and she genuinely cares about people. These are the qualities that make her an ideal candidate for council.
In my view, no one is more qualified or more deserving of this appointment. I strongly urge you to consider her for the seat, as I am confident she will represent the residents of Imperial Beach with excellence, humility, and dedication.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Respectfully,
Cynthia Kaui
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From: Bridget Mahoney
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11.A Support for Candidate Mariko Nakawatase
Date: Monday, September 15, 2025 1:09:12 PM
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Dear Mayor McKay and members of the Imperial Beach City Council, My name is Bridget Mahoney and I am writing today to voice my strong support for Mariko Nakawatase to fill the vacancy for District 3 councilmember.
Mariko's commitment to supporting her local community and the state of California is inspiring. A San Diego native, Mariko has a long record of community service in the county, which includes the cities of La Mesa, Bonita, San Diego, and Imperial Beach.
She has a background of service, fundraising, leadership, and passion for her county.
Serving as District Director for County Supervisor Joel Anderson, Mariko has firsthand experience in facilitating community engagement.
I believe that Mariko's experience and her vision will allow her to continue to serve the residents of Imperial Beach and empower her constituents with knowledge about local issues, services, and resources.
To quote Mariko herself, "Public Sector employees play a crucial role in shaping policies and programs that address the needs of diverse populations, ensuring that everyone has access to opportunities and resources. The work not only promotes civic engagement but also enhances transparency and accountability in governance, helping to build trust between the government and the community. The work is not easy, but so very necessary to help achieve and contribute to the greater good." Young women like Mariko are the future of not only our cities, but of our great state and country. Thank you for your time and consideration. I urge you to support Mariko Nakawatase for this vacancy.
Sincerely,
Bridget Mahoney
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From: Cole Marting
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11.A - Support for Candidate Mariko Nakawatase Date: Monday, September 15, 2025 4:40:56 PM
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We are writing to express our strong support for the appointment of Mariko to the vacant seat on the Imperial Beach City Council.
Over the years, we have witnessed Mariko’s unwavering dedication to public service, not just in title but in action. She is the kind of leader who shows up, whether it's advocating for working families, volunteering her time to community causes, or thoughtfully engaging with neighbors on the issues that matter most. Her personal and professional life reflect a consistent commitment to the people and values of Imperial Beach.
Mariko brings both integrity and experience to the table, but just as importantly, she brings heart. She listens before she speaks, works across divides, and never loses sight of the fact that public service is about service first. In a moment where trust in government is fragile, her grounded leadership and genuine care for the community stand out as exactly what is needed.
Imperial Beach deserves leaders who are present, prepared, and principled. Mariko is all of those things and more. We respectfully urge you to consider her appointment and believe she will serve the City Council and the people of Imperial Beach with distinction.
Thank you for your time and for your continued service to the community.
Warm regards,
Cole and Hayley Marting
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From: Katie Rapoza
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11.A- Support for Candidate Mariko Nakawatase
Date: Monday, September 15, 2025 1:48:12 PM
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Good afternoon,
My name is Katie Rapoza and as an employee of the city, I have had the opportunity to work closely with many community leaders, and I can say with confidence that Mariko Nakawatase stands out as someone who would serve the council with integrity and dedication. While I am not a resident of the city myself, I see firsthand how decisions made by council members impact both employees and the residents we serve, and I believe Mariko has the knowledge and commitment to make a positive difference.
In my experience, Mariko seeks to understand issues from multiple perspectives before making decisions, which is exactly the kind of thoughtful leadership a city council needs. Her ability to collaborate with staff and community members alike ensures that the best interests of the city remain at the center of every decision.
Though I cannot vote in this election, I wholeheartedly support Mariko's candidacy. I believe she will bring strong leadership, accountability, and a true dedication to the community, benefiting both residents and the employees who serve them.
Thank you for your time and please let me know if you have any questions.
Best regards,
Katie Rapoza
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From: Mark Rizk
To: Public Comments
Subject: On the appointment of Mariko Nakawatase
Date: Tuesday, September 16, 2025 11:45:51 AM
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Dear City Council of Imperial Beach, my name is Mark Rizk. I’m a friend of Mariko Natawatase and I would like to lend my support for Mariko to be appointed to the city council. I’ve known Mariko through civic involvement and I feel she is ready and is qualified for this new office. She currently works for Supervisor Joel Patterson and has worked for him for some years. She has also many years of volunteering in her community and has done work in other parts of the city and county as well. I know she is very intelligent and bright.
She will serve Imperial Beach with honesty, Integrity, and competence. I strongly recommend that you seriously consider her appointment. God bless! .
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From: L.
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11 a.
Date: Monday, September 15, 2025 3:03:41 PM
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Monday, September 15, 2025
Imperial Beach City Council
825 Imperial Beach Blvd.
Imperial Beach, CA 91932
Re: Agenda item 11.aStrong Opposition to Appointment of Valerie Aceves to the District 3 City Council Seat
Dear Mayor and Members of the City Council,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the consideration of Valerie Aceves for the District 3 City Council seat. While the community deserves a representative who can foster collaboration, transparency, and integrity, Ms. Aceves has consistently demonstrated the opposite.
During her time with the Imperial Beach Chamber of Commerce, Ms.
Aceves was directly responsible for undermining the organization’s stability and effectiveness. She left the Chamber in a fractured state, withholding vital membership information from the newly elected Board of Directors, thereby stifling the organization’s ability to function and serve our business community. Actions such as these reveal a pattern of behavior that is incompatible with the transparency and accountability we require from our public officials.
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In addition, multiple instances have been reported where Ms. Aceves has been openly vile and disrespectful to local community members. A City Councilmember must be someone who can engage constructively with residents, listen with respect, and work collaboratively to solve pressing issues. Her repeated failure to treat others with basic decency raises serious concerns about her ability to serve effectively in any public leadership role.
Imperial Beach deserves representatives who elevate our community, not individuals who divide, demean, or undermine it. For these reasons, I urge you to reject Valerie Aceves as a candidate for the District 3 City Council seat and instead select someone with the integrity, professionalism, and respect for community needed to guide our city forward.
Thank you for your consideration.
Very Respectfully,
Liisa Thomas
Imperial Beach resident
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From: Daniel Tovar
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11.A - Support for Candidate Mariko Nakawatase Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025 8:21:32 PM
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Hi, my name is Daniel. I’m a recent graduate of Mar Vista High School and a resident of Imperial Beach.
I’m here today to support Mariko for District 3 City Council. When I was in high school, She was my Key Club advisor, and I can honestly say she had a huge impact on my life. She pushed me and so many other students to grow as leaders, to serve our community, and to believe in ourselves.
What really stood out about Mariko was the way she led by example. She didn’t just talk about community. She lived it. She showed us that leadership is about listening, lifting others up, and putting in the work to make things better.
I believe that’s exactly the kind of energy and perspective we need on council. As someone who’s grown up here, I want to see leaders who understand our community and actually care about its future. I believe Mariko is that kind of leader.
Thank you.
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From: amber acevez
To: Public Comments
Subject: Recommendation letter/Valerie acevez /district three council interviews Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025 8:16:55 AM
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Dear Mayor and City council members
District 3
I’m writing this letter of recommendation for my mother, Valerie Acevez. My name is Amber Schad. I am Valerie‘s daughter. She has always been a big part of the Imperial Beach community and keeps the best interest of the city and the residents.
She was a great supporter and volunteer to all my sports in IB as a child. Many sports many years. Many hours to keep programs running. As I grew older and had children of my own they were able to join her in plenty of city volunteering…their favorite was putting up and decorating the Christmas tree in pier plaza! Valerie has the best interest for the greater of Imperial Beach and the community of the city, always has always will.
V/r
Amber Schad
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
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From: Nayeli Martinez
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11.A Support for Candidate Mariko Nakawatase
Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025 8:59:04 AM
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Dear Mayor and Council-members,
My name is Nayeli Martinez. I am 23 years old and a lifelong resident of Imperial Beach. I grew up here, attending schools in the South Bay and Sweet water District from 2nd through 12th grade, where I now work as a Supervisor in the South Bay. I am proud to call Imperial beach home.
I have known Mariko Nakawatase for three years, starting when I met her during my first internship. As a young adult just starting out, I will never forget how welcoming and supportive she was. She created a space where mistakes became opportunities to learn, and she continued to guide me with encouragement and community opportunities. She personally referred me to my first job after college and continued to support me by serving as a reference for my current position. Her mentorship and genuine care reflect her character, she uplifts others and invests in the next generation of IB residents.
If her character isn’t enough to convince you, her work and service in the community should.
Mariko has deep roots in Imperial Beach. She graduated from Mar Vista High School, where she participated in ROTC and now is an advisor for the Key Club. Professionally, she earned her Masters in Public Administration and serves as District Director for District 2. Even before this role, as Assistant District Director, she led multiple campaigns and initiatives, connecting residents with resources, addressing community concerns, and creating collaborative solutions.
She also served as a Member of the Board of Advisors for the YMCA, where she provided guidance and support for programs benefiting youth and families. She has shown an extraordinary ability to listen, multitask, collaborate, and solve problems with residents at the center of every decision.
She bridges generations, not only in her professional career but also by bringing community members together. Her outreach is strategic and thoughtful, and she is reliable, dedicated, and deeply committed to our city. Appointing Mariko Nakawatase will ensure Imperial Beach residents continue to have a councilmember who listens, acts with integrity, and keeps our community’s best interests at heart.
I respectfully urge you to appoint Mariko Nakawatase to the vacant council seat. I am confident she will serve Imperial Beach with dedication, integrity, and a heartfelt commitment to keeping residents first.
Sincerely,
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Nayeli Martinez
A proud resident of Imperial Beach
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From: Jarrod Caswell
To: Public Comments
Subject: 11A city council seat
Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025 10:16:51 AM
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Sent from my iPhone
I want to express my regret for not being present on such a crucial decision day for the city; I’m currently on vacation. Had this been planned, I would have been eager to throw my hat in the ring for the position.
Concerning the D3 seat, it is essential that we keep politics out of our council. As a small town, our focus must remain on the bigger picture. By prioritizing our community and standing united, I have no doubt we can drive meaningful positive change. Electing a strong, vocal candidate is vital; failing to do so could deepen the political divide that is harming both our city and our country.
I like John, the military candidate, because our city benefits greatly from its military presence. I believe we have yet to fully realize the potential that our military connections can bring. ( never met him ) I appreciate Pat’s desire to re-enter the race. While I wasn’t here during his previous tenure on the council and can’t comment on his past performance, I am confident that he possesses the capability to quickly acclimate and make a significant impact. ( or him)
Now the other some I know and I think a couple of them would make a strong candidate Erika and Mariko But I truly would like to keep the political hate down and see Imperial Beach grow we need positive change and the only way that happens is by working together and looking past the political fire and hate in the community.
Tylor Mitch, Jack, Carol & Matthew are doing a great job Matthew is doing a great job on his political side with providing union jobs to locals and helping the city with connections I'm not sure if the opposing side would only cause more harm than good and does a great union trades day at the school thats positive
We need positive we are IB
Now im going back to my Mia Thai
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From: Reshae Brandenburg
To: Public Comments
Subject: Letter of Endorsement -District 3 council seat Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025 11:14:28 AM
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To the City of Imperial Beach,
While we get ready to fill in the district 3 seat for city council, I ultimately believe that what Imperial Beach needs most at this time is steady, experienced leadership to keep our city moving in the right direction.
For that reason, I am proud to stand by Patrick Bilbray as my requested representative for District 3.
Patrick has already served on Council, giving him the firsthand knowledge and experience necessary to navigate city operations and decision-making.
As a lifelong local, Patrick has consistently placed Imperial Beach first— making choices that reflect the good of the community as a whole rather than individual interests.
What sets Patrick apart is not only his experience but also the perspective he brings as part of a younger generation of leadership. He understands the history and growth of Imperial Beach while serving as a strong advocate for its future.
The months ahead will be pivotal for shaping the direction of our community. With Patrick’s proven leadership, I am confident Imperial Beach will continue on a steady, positive path forward.
Respectfully,
Reshae Cuevas
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District 3 Resident – Imperial Beach
Sent from my iPhone
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From: Briana Bilbray
To: Public Comments
Cc: Jacqueline M. Kelly
Subject: Public Comment Submission for tonight"s meeting Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025 11:50:47 AM
Attachments: Bilbray Appointment.pdf
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Please see attached.
Thank you for your time
Briana Bilbray, CPA
Bilbray Tax Service
970 Seacoast Drive, Ste 7
Imperial Beach, CA 91932
Phone: 619.424.3340 ǀ Fax: 619.924.7149
IRS Circular 230 Disclosure: Any tax advice that may be contained in this communication (including in any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (i) avoiding any penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (ii) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction(s) or tax-related matter(s) that may be addressed herein. .
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Briana Bilbray, CPA
Imperial Beach, CA 91932
[email protected]
September 17, 2025
Imperial Beach City Council
825 Imperial Beach Blvd.
Imperial Beach, CA 91932
Re: Support for Appointment of Brian Patrick Bilbray to District 3 City Council Seat Dear Honorable Members of the Council,
As a business owner in District 3 of Imperial Beach, a mother of three fourth-generation Imperial Beach residents, and a homeowner in D3, I am deeply invested in the longevity and success of Imperial Beach — both for my family and for our community. I am writing to strongly urge the appointment of Brian Patrick Bilbray to fill the vacant City Council seat. Our city has been underrepresented for almost an entire year, and it is vital that we have someone who can step in immediately with proven experience and dedication.
While there are other great candidates who have applied for this position, only Brian has the prior experience serving on the City Council. He represented Imperial Beach as a Councilmember from 2010 to 2016 and was elected with 60% of District 3’s support, demonstrating the strong confidence and trust this community has already placed in him.
Mr. Bilbray has been a resident of District 3 in Imperial Beach for more than 37 years and has consistently worked to advance issues important to our city. He has helped make substantial progress on the sewage issue by bringing attention to the problem, collaborating with a wide range of political representatives at the federal, county and local levels, and building the connections needed to continue driving real solutions.
His public service record, combined with his professional experience managing budgets, operations, and teams, demonstrates the skills necessary to provide immediate, effective leadership on the Council.
At this time, Imperial Beach needs stability, representation, and someone who can hit the ground running. Brian Bilbray is uniquely qualified to deliver that for District 3 and for our city as a whole.
I respectfully urge you to appoint him without delay.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Briana Bilbray, CPA
Bilbray Tax Service
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From: Jose Chavez
To: Public Comments
Subject: Support for Mariko Nakawatase For Imperial Beach City Council Vacancy Date: Wednesday, September 17, 2025 11:59:30 AM
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Good Morning,
My name is Jose Chavez and I confidently support Mariko Nakawatase’s appointment To the vacancy on imperial Beach city Council.
I had the distinct pleasure of working with Mariko when I served at Supervisor Joel Anderson district office. During my tenure year, Mariko always put the community of district too and greater San Diego County first, forwarding revolutionary idea ideas for constituent services.
As a city council woman in imperial Beach, I have full confidence that she will put the residents first.
JC
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