Item 12 - Additional Materials posted 12-03-24 — Poway City Council, December 3, 2024

M EMQRAN DLJ M City of Poway

ADD ITIONAL MATER IALS
(Agenda Related Writings/Do cuments provided to City Council or Staff after distribution of the Agenda Packet for the December 3, 2024 Council Meeting) DATE:

TO:

FROM:

CONTACT:

December 3, 2024
Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
Carrie Gallagher, City Clerk ~
(858) 668-4535 or [email protected]
SUBJECT: Item 12 - Discussion and Possible Action to Fill City Council Vacancy Attached please find correspondence received after the agenda posting deadline.

Reviewed/Approve d By:
w!1.~
Assistant City Manager
1 of 52
Reviewed By:

Alan Fenstermacher
City Attorney
Chris Hazeltin e
City Manager
December 3, 2024, Item # 12
Ellis Webster
From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Follow Up Flag:

Flag Status:
noreen arnold <[email protected]>
Monday, December 2, 2024 8:54 AM
City Clerk
Dec 3, 2024, Item #12
Follow up
Completed
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Please add to the official record for the 12/3/24 council meeting.

I am a long-time Poway resident and am writing you to encourage our City Council to hold a special election for the upcoming vacancy in District 1. While I do not live in this council district, I believe that Poway residents have a vested interest in ensuring that the citizens of Poway have a voice in their elected representatives.

I am disappointed and a bit skeptical that Councilmember Pepin suddenly realized two weeks after the election that his position was more time consuming that he had anticipated. It follows the recent past resignations of councilmembers, which then led to appointments instead of elections. This removes the option for the citizens to participate and leads to the assumption that our council is attempting to appoint members who will vote in lockstep with our current majority and reward the developers who are working hard to change the character of our city.

While I understand that there is a financial cost to an election, I believe we should bear that cost. We need to allow the residents of District 1 to elect a representative who reflects their views, and not that of the majority of the council.

Thank you for your consideration.

Regards,
Noreen Arnold
13945 York Avenue
Poway, CA 92064
858-442-6128
1 2 of 52 December 3, 2024,
Item #12
From: Amit Asaravala
To: Steve Vaus; Caylin Frank; Brian Pepin; Anita Edmondson; Peter De Hoff Cc: Carrie Gallagher
Subject: Regarding Item 12 on 12/3/24 Council Meeting Agenda (Discussion and Possible Action to Fill City Council Vacancy)
Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024 8:29:55 PM

EXTERNAL EMAIL
Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers De Hoff, Edmondson, Frank & Pepin, (cc City Clerk Gallagher,)

It’s disappointing that it took less than half a term for Councilmember Pepin to decide he no longer wanted to serve on the Council. Given that the voters of District 1 entrusted him to be their representative just two years ago, swapping in a representative whom voters did not have any say in choosing would be unfair.

The best option is to hold a special election so that candidates can communicate with voters and make their case for why they would be the best representative for District 1. The cost and timing of a special election are less than optimal, but it’s worth dipping into the city’s reserves and taking the time to ensure voters have fair representation in government.

Amit Asaravala
President, Poway Democratic Club
3 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: PETE BABICH
To: City Clerk
Cc: Steve Vaus; Caylin Frank; Peter De Hoff; Brian Pepin; Anita Edmondson; Chris Hazeltine; Wendy Kaserman Subject: City Council Meeting, 12/3, Item 12
Date: Thursday, November 28, 2024 12:16:21 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Poway City Council Members,
I was very disappointed to hear that Council Member Pepin announced that he will resign his council seat to pursue his business opportunities. He was quoted as saying, “Public service is something that’s always been important to me.” Apparently, it’s not important enough to balance his commitment to complete his term with his business interests.

I view Mr. Pipin being included in the process to name his replacement as a conflict of interest. I suggest Mr. Pipin either complete his term or resign now!
I strongly oppose filling council vacancies by appointment. Our first choice should always be to fill vacancies with an election. Yes, elections are expensive, but they are cost of doing business in a democracy. No unplanned event is ever budgeted, but Poway has robust General Fund Reserves which could be used.

Unfortunately, the timing of Mr. Pepin’s announcement makes it difficult to schedule a special election using the standard election dates.

The city shouldn’t wait until
November 2025 to fill the seat. However, under no circumstances should an appointment be made at the December 3, 2024, City Council meeting! Doing so will reinforce the suspicion that “the fix was in.”
I encourage the council to use the second option to appoint a new council member.

Announce the vacancy, solicit applications within a time limit, and hold a public meeting to interview and make an appointment.

Pete Babich
15997 Grey Stone Rd, Poway
858-212-9191


4 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: Koral Baumann
To: City Clerk
Cc: Councilmembers
Subject: RE: Dec 3, 2024 meeting And Item #12
Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024 5:23:47 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
I request special election for the recent resignation of a member Brian Pepin so the voters can choose their own representative.

Sincerely, Koral Baumann - Poway, CA
5 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: Tony Blain
To: Jared Wilson
Cc: Steve Vaus; Brian Pepin; Peter De Hoff; Anita Edmondson; Caylin Frank; Fenstermacher, Alan; Chris Hazeltine; City Clerk
Subject: Pepin’s seat
Date: Wednesday, November 27, 2024 8:13:01 AM

EXTERNAL EMAIL
Jared Wilson,
If you get Mayor Vaus to appoint you to Pepin’s seat, we will do IMMEDIATE RECALL and collect 4,000 signatures to force your IMMEDIATE removal from office.

Tony Blain
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
6 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Tony Blain
To: Jared Wilson
Cc: Steve Vaus; Brian Pepin; Peter De Hoff; Anita Edmondson; Caylin Frank; Fenstermacher, Alan; Chris Hazeltine; City Clerk
Subject: Re: Pepin’s seat
Date: Wednesday, November 27, 2024 10:28:12 AM

EXTERNAL EMAIL
Mayor Vaus,
The first time you try to censure, prohibit, or decrease my speaking time on City Council, I will simply turn in multiple Public Comment Speaker slips and speak from the other side of the podium as a City resident. Please be professional and NONPOLITICAL and do what’s right in your role as Mayor next 23 months.

Even better, please consider resigning.

Tony Blain
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
On Wednesday, November 27, 2024, 9:07 AM, Jared Wilson <[email protected]> wrote:

Mr. Blain, I have asked you to stop emailing me. If you contact me again I will file a criminal complaint against you for annoying and harassing communications under Penal code 653m.

Jared Wilson
On Nov 27, 2024, at 8:12 AM, Tony Blain <[email protected]> wrote:

Jared Wilson,
If you get Mayor Vaus to appoint you to Pepin’s seat, we will do IMMEDIATE RECALL and collect 4,000 signatures to force your IMMEDIATE removal from office.

Tony Blain
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
7 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Tony Blain
To: [email protected]; City Clerk; Steve Vaus; Brian Pepin; Anita Edmondson; Caylin Frank; Peter De Hoff Cc: "Jenny Maeda"; Hiram Soto
Subject: Re: Pepin Resignation options
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 12:49:02 PM
Attachments: image002.png

EXTERNAL EMAIL
1) We support ONLY a Special Election.
2) Any appointment would have to be opened up to 100% of eligible Poway residents Tony Blain
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
On Monday, December 2, 2024, 12:27 PM, [email protected] <[email protected]> wrote:

Hello Council and Hiram -

Is it too late to have special election in March to fill Brian Pepin vacancy? If too late, would Brian be willing to serve until Nove 2025, at which point another candidate could be elected to fill his position?
Really curious to know why Brian would not have resigned before this past election, if he was thinking of doing so.

If you were to appoint someone for vacancy, would you consider appointing Hiram Soto, who ran before and came in close second to Pepin?
That might be good solution up for discussion if appointment is decided upon.

Hiram, I believe you are partial to special election, but are you even open to being appointed to this council?
Would be interested in knowing.

Hope these items are discussed/addressed at tomorrow’s meeting.

All the best.

Thank you.

Vanessa Springett

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8 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12

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9 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Frida Brunzell
To: City Clerk; Councilmembers
Subject: 12/3/24 Council Meeting Item #12
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 2:07:54 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Council members,
I am writing to you regarding the vacant seat in D1 due to council member Pepin’s resignation. I am asking that you listen to the community and hold a special election to fill this seat.

Sincerely,
Frida Brunzell
10 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Nick Carruthers
To: City Clerk; Chris Hazeltine
Subject: Comments to council for Item 12, December 3rd Meeting Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024 1:08:52 PM
Attachments: Comments Council Mtg 12-3-24, Item #12.pdf

EXTERNAL EMAIL
Please find attached comments for 12/3/24 Council Meeting, Public Oral and Item 12: Discussion and Possible Action to Fill City Council Vacancy.

Thank you,
Nick

Nicholas Carruthers Ph.D
E-mail: [email protected]
Mobile: (858)-366-5037

11 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
December 2nd, 2024

Re: 12/3/24 Council Meeting, Public Oral and Item 12: Discussion and Possible Action to Fill City Council Vacancy

Dear Mayor Vaus and Poway City Council Members, and City Manager Chris Hazeltine.

This coming Tuesday, under Item 12, the Council will discuss how to address the District 1 vacancy which will be created when city councilor Brian Pepin tenders his resignation in the near future. In Mr. Pepin’s e-mail to City Manager Hazeltine dated November 25
th, 2024, he makes the following statement: “I will be stepping away from the city council effective upon my seat being filled with a replacement”. While the sequence of events, finding a replacement and then resigning appears somewhat unusual we don’t believe it’s forbidden based on California Code Gov 36512. However, in the past elections or appointments have only occurred following a resignation or a recall and thus the seat is open, and there is no existing incumbent available to vote on their successor.

When Mr. Pepin was elected in 2022, he faced a single opponent, and Mr. Pepin obtained most votes 2,520 versus 2,113 for a total of 4,633 votes cast. Clearly voters within District 1 are actively engaged in the democratic process.

In considering how to fill the vacancy that will be created upon Mr. Pepin’s departure Poway Voices requests that an election be held and that the wishes of the residents of District 1 be recognized via the democratic process. If an appointment process is used, then members of council and the mayor will be the only casting votes and presumably the appointee will only require a majority or three votes. A particular irony in this case is that only one person voting, Mr. Pepin, will be a resident of District 1.

We believe that elections are superior to appointments for several reasons:

• Democratic Legitimacy: Elections give power directly to the people, allowing them to choose their representatives and leaders. This process ensures that officials are accountable to the public rather than to a small group of appointing authorities. • Representation of Public Will: Through elections, the diverse opinions, values, and priorities of the population are reflected in the selection of leaders. This ensures broader representation compared to appointments, which may prioritize the preferences of a few decision-makers.
• Accountability: Elected officials must answer to their constituents, who have the power to remove them in the next election if they are dissatisfied. This creates an incentive for leaders to act in the public's interest.
• Transparency: Election processes, though not without flaws, are generally more open and visible to the public than appointment processes. • Prevention of Bias and Favoritism: Appointments can sometimes be influenced by personal relationships, political alliances, or nepotism. Elections reduce this risk by involving a broader voting population.
12 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
• Empowerment of Citizens: Participating in elections fosters civic engagement and gives citizens a sense of control over their government and policies.

Some final comments: (San Diego Union Tribune, February 19th, 2023)

From the Mayor of Chula Vista: Mayor John McCann served on the City Council when all three appointments took place. Each time, “there have been concerns about transparency and fairness of the process,” he said. “The best vetting process is an election,” he added. “The lesson I’ve learned is that elections are better than appointments.”

From the League of Women Voters: (referring to the Chula Vista case): “The League of Women Voters supports choosing officials by a vote of the people,” League President Kim Knox said in an emailed statement.

Thank you for your attention and we look forward to a favorable response.

Sincerely,

Nick Carruthers, Chris Cruse, Alison Park, Jana Johnson, Torrey Powers, and Eric Weller

13 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Sandy Casey
To: Steve Vaus; Brian Pepin; Caylin Frank; Peter De Hoff; City Clerk; Anita Edmondson Cc: Sandy Casey; Bob Casey
Subject: Subject: Request for a Special Election to Fill the District 1 Vacancy Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024 2:21:19 PM

EXTERNAL EMAIL
Dear Mayor Vaus and Poway City Councilmembers,
This is very important to us and to all the people of Poway.

We are writing to urge you to hold a special election to fill the District 1 vacancy created by Brian Pepin’s resignation. Poway deserves a transparent and democratic process that allows residents to choose their representative.

Our city has a troubled history with appointments, which have eroded trust and created a sense of disconnection between the community and its leaders. In recent elections, voters made it clear they want accountability and representation, not decisions made behind closed doors.

Appointing someone to this critical role would only deepen this lack of trust and undermine the democratic values our city stands for.

A special election is not just a procedural formality—it’s a chance to show Poway residents that their voices matter. While the costs of a special election may be a concern, the long-term cost of public distrust is far greater. Giving District 1 voters the opportunity to choose their representative is an investment in our community’s future and the integrity of our local government.

Please demonstrate your commitment to democracy and transparency by prioritizing the voices of District 1 residents. I urge you to hold a special election and let the people decide who will represent them.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Sandra and Bob Casey
13617 Poinsettia Dr, Poway,CA
Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer
14 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Kit and Karen Cheves
To: Councilmembers; City Clerk
Subject: Re: Dec 3, 2024 meeting, Item #12
Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024 2:53:22 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
We support calling a special election to replace council member Brian Pepin. While there is cost associated with a special election, the timing of his resignation so soon after the recent election cycle is unfortunate and his replacement should be selected by the voters and not the city council.

Regards,
Kit and Karen Cheves
15 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: David Clark
To: Steve Vaus
Cc: Brian Pepin; Anita Edmondson; [email protected]; Carrie Gallagher; Caylin Frank Subject: Agenda Item 12 fro Dec 3 City Council Meeting
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 9:10:29 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
I see that another member of the city council has resigned half way through their term. Poway needs to recruit people who are committed to serve their entire term.

The timing of the resignation was obviously timed to avoid allowing the residents to elect a replacement and to set up an appointment by the Mayor.

The Council should
not once again engage in this type of behavior. Allow the residents to fill the vacancy with a special election not an obvious political maneuver to appoint a party loyalist.

David Clark
16 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: chris cruse
To: Councilmembers; City Clerk
Cc: [email protected]; Poway_Voices
Subject: 12/3/24 Council Meeting Item #12
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 10:49:34 AM

EXTERNAL EMAIL
Councilmembers,
Tonight you will decide how to fill the vacant seat in D1 due to Councilmember Pepin’s resignation. There is only one choice that makes sense for our city at this time: Hold a special election and let the people in D1 decide who will represent them on the council.

The recent Poway election results reveal that there is a huge disconnect between the current council members and the Poway voters. Even though the council’s preferred candidates raised and spent the most money and had the support of Fire Dept and LE and numerous PACs, they lost. The heavily funded campaign to pass Measure H, which was put on the ballot by the council also lost, and lost big.

Appointing a replacement for D1 council member will reinforce that the council has a different vision for Poway than what the residents have, and that the council wants to keep the residents uninformed and uninvolved in the decision making process, without a representative who speaks for them.

Although a special election will cost money, there is also a cost to our city if the residents believe our council is not working for us..

Hopefully, having a special election for council vacancies will become the new normal. Hopefully, the idea of transferring the council seats to cronies who have no connection to the people they represent, will become a thing of the past. Hopefully, people won’t run for office, or for re-election with plans to quit and give their seat to a preferred accomplice. Hopefully, we will get back to government of, by and for the people.

Please choose a special election to fill the vacant seat. That choice says everything about how you plan to govern over the next 2 years.

Sincerely,
Chris Cruse
17 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: LISA DUMOLT
To: City Clerk
Subject: Dec 3 City Council meeting agenda item 12
Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024 5:26:05 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Hello:

I want to see a special election to determine who will fill the upcoming District 1 Council vacancy. Residents should have a voice in determining who their representative will be.

Lisa Dumolt
13436 Scots Way

Poway
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
18 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: Angie Hall
To: Steve Vaus; Caylin Frank; Brian Pepin; Anita Edmondson; Peter De Hoff; Carrie Gallagher Subject: Agenda Item 12 for Dec 3 City Council Meeting
Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024 8:41:23 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Brian Pepin’s resignation from his District 1 seat requires a replacement that is chosen by those served by that seat.

Filling by appointment by representatives from a different district is double dipping and defeats the entire purpose.

Do the right thing and have a special election.

Angie Hall
Poway, CA
19 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Gary
To: Councilmembers
Cc: City Clerk
Subject: District 1 Replacement for Peppin
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 9:38:49 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Please hold a special election to replace Peppin.

Too many replacements without elections are not good.

Thank you,
Gary Jalaty
14265 Twin Peaks Rd
20 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Nancy Jalaty
To: Councilmembers
Cc: City Clerk
Subject: District Election to Replace Peppin
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 9:43:42 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
The people of District 1 deserve a leader of their choice.

Please hold a district election to replace Peppin.

Thank you,
Nancy Jalaty
14265 Twin Peaks Rd
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
21 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: Ray J
To: Carrie Gallagher; Brian Pepin; Anita Edmondson; Caylin Frank; Peter De Hoff Subject: Dec 03 2024 Item #11 and #12
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 12:53:16 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Ladies and gentlemen,
Please include this email as my request to contest Items #11 and #12 for the Dec 03, 2024, City of Poway Council Meeting.

The City of Poway Councilwoman and Councilman
Try to do right by your constituents; don’t leave the office hoping people will forget you. This is not a legacy you want to leave behind. Loyalty is an admirable characteristic, but blind, meaningless loyalty is foolish and a curse that you will carry for the rest of your life.

I like to believe you are a good person, and the pressure of the political surrounding environment has made you take unacceptable actions by your constituents.

Please astonish everyone and show there is good in you.

Please reject the Water rate increase. Item #11 on the agenda for Dec 03, 2024 Please allow the special election to fill the vacancy for the D1. Item #12 on the agenda for Dec 03, 2024

Sincerly,
Ray Jalisi
22 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: linda kent
To: City Clerk
Cc: Steve Vaus; Caylin Frank; Brian Pepin; Anita Edmondson; Peter De Hoff; Carrie Gallagher Subject: Item #12 Pepin Resignation
Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024 3:34:05 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Suspicious minds might think Brian Pepin's resignation is interesting timing since we just had an election last month. Why did he not resign in time to allow Poway citizens to vote for his replacement? Should you try to "appoint" his replacement at your December meeting, it will look like fixed politics at its worst. Please schedule a special election for D1 voters to choose his replacement and prove that democracy matters in Poway.

Thank you,
Linda Kent
14701 Poway Mesa Dr
Poway, CA 92064
23 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: Sharon Losnick
To: Councilmembers
Cc: City Clerk
Subject: special election
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 8:08:14 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
As a long time Poway resident, I feel that there should be a special election to replace Brian Pepin on the City Council.

His replacement should NOT be decided by the current City Council. It should be decided by those who live in District 1.

Sharon Losnick, CPA
13643 Acorn Patch Lane
Poway, CA 92064
858 472-9825

24 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Roberta McCoy
To: Councilmembers; [email protected]; Caylin Frank; Brian Pepin; Carrie Gallagher Subject: Agenda item 12 for Dec 3 City Council Meeting
Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024 2:00:01 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
The community of Poway deserves true representation rather than a cabal of oligarchs driving the City into a slum at the profit of developers while sitting by and fiddling as every empty lot is filled with structures of questionable quality.

These developments are contrary to the desires of citizens to maintain "the City in the Country".

Poway deserves representation as a result of fair elections, not good old boys with mutual back scratching using the assets of the City for their own profits.

Poway deserves the opportunity to fill the District 1 council position with a

fair SPECIAL ELECTION.

Regards,
Roberta McCoy
13987 Midland Rd.
25 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
1-
From: David Middleton
To: City Clerk
Subject: Pepin resignation
Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024 6:30:15 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Please hold a special election to replace this councilor who has just resigned.

David Middleton
Poway Resident
26 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: Sally Nalven
To: Councilmembers
Cc: City Clerk
Subject: Special Election
Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024 9:07:42 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Dear Council Member,
As a Poway resident, I support a special election to fill the vacancy on the city council.

Thank you,
Sally Nalven
27 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Silke Miller
To: City Clerk
Cc: Councilmembers
Subject: District 3 council member replacement
Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024 4:11:39 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Dear City of Poway administration
Please call a special election to replace Brian Pepin.

Thank you for considering listening to the people of Poway.

Best regards,
Silke Miller
28 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
1-
From: Ryan Ream
To: City Clerk
Cc: Councilmembers
Subject: December 3rd 2024 Meeting, Item # 12
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 8:08:15 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Please hold a special election for the seat vacated by Brian Pepin. 29 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: Aleksandra Richards
To: City Clerk
Cc: Councilmembers
Subject: December 3, 2024 Council Meeting Item #12
Date: Tuesday, December 3, 2024 8:07:18 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
City of Poway Councilmembers,
I am a District 1 (D1) resident and am writing to you to in response to Councilmember Pepin’s resignation. I request that the City hold a special election and let the residents in D1 decide who will represent them on the council.

I am very concerned about the potential for the council to appoint their own pick to the council. As recent election results have shown, there seems to be a big disconnect between the current council members and Poway residents. Poway residents are angry because it seems like the council is not listening to us, especially since the council votes for unpopular Specific Plan changes (e.g., LifeTime Fitness), ignores petitions, and are not transparent (e.g., making unpopular decisions in closed sessions). Furthermore, the current council members have mocked residents, showing that they really do not care about our concerns.

Appointing a D1 council member will reinforce that the council wants to continue keeping the residents uninformed and uninvolved in the decision making process, without a representative who speaks for them. The council already appointed a few years ago a council member who had no connection to our city or residents but was merely a crony. This has to end. This political game of running for reelection and quitting just to transfer the seat to a preferred political accomplice has to end. Our residents should come first Please choose a special election to fill the vacant seat. That choice will speak volumes about how you plan to govern over the next 2 years.

Sincerely,
Aleksandra Richards
30 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: kittymiller57
To: City Clerk; [email protected]
Subject: Filling vacant council seat
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 11:18:58 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
As you all make the decision on how best to fill the council seat that is being vacated by Brian Pepin, I would like to weigh in.

I believe the best and most transparent decision you can make is to hold a special election.

There is a vast amount of voter distrust that results from appointments. Each voter in each
district has a right to select their own representation, not just once every four years, regardless of the length of service that seat has left in its term. The cost for this election will not have as much of a negative impact that an appointment will have.

Now, more than ever, especially in light of our recent local election results, all eyes are on you, our city council, to do the right thing and call for a special election to fill this vacant seat.

I urge you to let the people speak and choose for themselves. They deserve to be heard and respected.

Kitty Rutledge Miller
12528 Arabian Way
Poway CA 92064
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
31 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: Deb Schmidt
To: City Clerk
Subject: Request for a Special Election to fill the District 1 vacancy Date: Tuesday, December 3, 2024 8:07:19 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
City Clerk,
Please add this email into the record for the Poway City Council meeting dated December 3, 2024. Regarding Agenda item #12.

As a resident of Poway that resides in District 1, I urge the City Council to hold a special election for the vacancy created by Brian Pepin's resignation. Pepin has not even completed half of his time on the Council, it is disenfranchising the residents in district 1 to have a council member that they did not elect.

In the recent elections, Poway voters made it clear that they want accountability and representation. If the council appoints someone to this chair it would undermine our resident's democratic rights.

A special election is not just a procedural formality, it's an opportunity of this Council that the resident's voices matter. Although I realize the cost is of concern, the long- term cost of public distrust is far greater.

I ask that the Council prioritizes a commitment to democratic process by giving District 1 the deciding voice to who will represent us.

Regards,
Deb Schmidt
Tobiasson Road
District 1

32 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: Jeffrey Schmidt
To: Carrie Gallagher
Subject: Letter for council meeting item 12
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 2:59:32 PM
Attachments: Special vote for council member dist 1.docx

EXTERNAL EMAIL

[email protected]
Phone: 858-692-7664

33 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
December 2, 2024

Jeff Schmidt
13712 Tobiasson Road
Poway, CA 92064

Poway City Council
13325 Civic Center Drive
Poway, CA 92064

Subject: Poway City Council Meeting 12/3/2024 Agenda Item 12

Council Members,
Being a Poway resident residing in district 1, I feel strongly that the City Council should not appoint a person to hold the district 1 council seat for the rest of Mr. Pepin’s term.

To be frank, the appointment of the previous district 4 council member to ﬁll a then vacant seat, was suspect and seemed to be a hand selection of a yes-man for the Mayor.

Obviously, the district council members should represent the residents of a particular district, not be beholden to the other council members. Hand picking a ﬁll-in for the position reeks of cronyism and potential impropriety.

The cost of the special election is a concern, however, allowing the district residents the opportunity to select their representative will go a long way to repair the current feelings of mistrust of the motives of this current city council.

As an example of mistrust, I currently am garnering, I feel that Mr. Pepin probably knew he would step down prior to the previous election. If so, that would mean that the City Council could have prevented being subject to the decision between the cost of a special election versus an appointment for the position. If this is true, this situation would be a deceitful manipulation of the public. Holding a special election would put this question to rest.

At this point I request that the City pay for the special election giving the citizens the opportunity to choose their district representative, improving public trust in the Council, and to eliminate any potential or impression of misconduct.

Jeffrey W. Schmidt
34 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Debbie Schneider
To: Steve Vaus; Caylin Frank; Brian Pepin; Anita Edmondson; Peter De Hoff; Carrie Gallagher Subject: Agenda item 12 for Dec 3 city Council Meeting
Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024 6:13:54 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
I heard that Brian Pepin is stepping down & I want to have a special election. This my district & my vote. Please do the right thing.

Deborah Schneider
Frame Road
35 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
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From: Bernadette Simi
To: City Clerk; Councilmembers
Subject: RE: 12/3/24 Council Meeting Item #12
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 12:07:32 PM

EXTERNAL EMAIL
RE: 12/3/24 Council Meeting Item #12
Councilmembers,
Tonight you will decide how to fill the vacant seat in D1 due to Councilmember Pepin’s resignation. There is only one choice that makes sense for our city at this time: Hold a special election and let the people in D1 decide who will represent them on the council.

The public is angry because the council is not listening to us, they mock residents and groups like Poway Voices, ignore petitions, and keep voting for unpopular General Plan and Specific Plan changes
like LifeTime Fitness, and Harmon Ranch. The leaked closed session revealed that the council is quite comfortable making decisions behind closed doors that they know residents don’t want. Appointing a replacement for D1 council member will reinforce that the council has a different vision for Poway than what the residents have, and that the council wants to keep the residents uninformed and uninvolved in the decision making process, without a representative who speaks for them.

Although a special election will cost money, there is also a cost to our city if the residents believe our council is not
working for us..

Hopefully, having a special election for council vacancies will become the new normal.

Hopefully, we will get back
to government of, by and for the people.

Please choose a special election to fill the vacant seat.

Sincerely,
Bernadette Simi
Sent from my iPhone
36 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Hiram Soto
To: Steve Vaus; Caylin Frank; Brian Pepin; Anita Edmondson; Peter De Hoff; Carrie Gallagher Subject: Agenda Item 12 for Dec 3 City Council Meeting
Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024 8:28:25 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Dear Mayor Vaus, and the Poway City Council,
I am writing to strongly urge the City Council to fill the vacant District 1 seat through a special election, not by appointment. This decision will set the tone for our city’s future and must reflect our commitment to transparency, accountability, and empowering residents to choose their leaders.

Poway has a troubled history of appointments that many view as an abuse of power. They bypass voters, concentrate decision-making in the hands of a few, and leave residents feeling disconnected and frustrated. When I ran for City Council in 2022, I repeatedly heard concerns from voters about the appointment process that placed council member Caitlin Frank and others on the council. Her subsequent loss in the recent election underscores this sentiment. Voters want accountability from their leaders, not decisions made behind closed doors.

The results of our recent election make it clear: Poway residents have rejected the establishment’s vision for our city. Two favored candidates, including an incumbent, lost their races. In District 2, Jared Wilson—a well-funded candidate supported by all of you— finished a distant third. These outcomes send a powerful message: voters are tired of the status quo and want leaders who respect their voices and share their vision for Poway’s future.

When I ran for District 1 in 2022, I raised concerns about Brian Pepin’s ties to developer dollars and his lack of commitment to our community. Unfortunately, those concerns have proven true. From the beginning, council member Pepin was more focused on issues and opportunities outside of Poway—including advancing his own career—than on the priorities of our residents. Two years into his term, he is stepping down, leaving the very seat he promised to serve. District 1 deserves better than representatives who prioritize outside interests and personal ambition over long-term dedication to our community.

Some may argue that a special election is too costly. But the cost of democracy is worth every penny. Fiscal responsibility is a core value of good governance, but it should never come at the expense of the people’s voice. Appointments may appear to save money in the short term, but they create long-term distrust and disengagement in the democratic 37 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
1-
process. The price of regaining that trust far outweighs the cost of an election.

This vacancy is a pivotal moment for Poway. You can either restore confidence in local government by empowering voters through a special election, or risk further alienating residents by repeating the mistakes of the past. Letting the people of District 1 choose their representative is not only the right thing to do—it aligns with the values of accountability, transparency, and limited government that many in our city hold dear.

I urge you to honor the voters of District 1. Hold a special election and show our community that Poway values democracy and the will of its people.

Sincerely,
Hiram Soto
38 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: [email protected]
To: City Clerk; Steve Vaus; Brian Pepin; Anita Edmondson; Caylin Frank; Peter De Hoff Cc: Tony Blain; "Jenny Maeda"; Hiram Soto
Subject: Pepin Resignation options
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 12:27:04 PM
Attachments: image002.png

EXTERNAL EMAIL
Hello Council and Hiram -

Hiram, I believe you are partial to special election, but are you even open to being appointed to this council?
Would be interested in knowing.

Hope these items are discussed/addressed at tomorrow’s meeting.

All the best.

Thank you.

Vanessa Springett

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Vanessa Springett
Cell 858-722-5626

Heidi and Vanessa with Avalon Mortgage Corp
Shared Direct Line: 858-625-8533
Fax: 858-554-0517
Please notify us if sending fax so that we may confirm receipt.

39 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
Vanessa cell 858-722-5626
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Avalon Mortgage Corp
6333 Greenwich Drive, Ste 220
San Diego, CA 92122

DRE 01192534
NMLS 252171

40 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Sharon Starkey
To: City Clerk
Cc: Councilmembers
Subject: Special election request
Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024 10:50:44 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
To replace Brian Pepin
We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us. 41 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Camille
To: City Clerk
Subject: Request for a Special Election to Fill the District 1 Vacancy Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024 1:46:50 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
>
Dear City Mgr,
>
> I am writing to urge you to hold a special election to fill the District 1 vacancy created by Brian Pepin’s resignation. Poway deserves a transparent and democratic process that allows residents to choose their representative.
>
> Our city has a troubled history with appointments, which have eroded trust and created a sense of disconnection between the community and its leaders. In recent elections, voters made it clear they want accountability and representation, not decisions made behind closed doors. Appointing someone to this critical role would only deepen this lack of trust and undermine the democratic values our city stands for. >
> A special election is not just a procedural formality—it’s a chance to show Poway residents that their voices matter. While the costs of a special election may be a concern, the long-term cost of public distrust is far greater.

Giving District 1 voters the opportunity to choose their representative is an investment in our community’s future and the integrity of our local government.
>
> Please demonstrate your commitment to democracy and transparency by prioritizing the voices of District 1 residents. I urge you to hold a special election and let the people decide who will represent them. >
> Thank you for your time and consideration.
>
> Sincerely,
> Camille Stewart
> 12947 Slack St
> 8584869274
>
>
> Sent from my iPhone
42 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Donald L Urena
To: Councilmembers
Subject: Special Election
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 11:27:49 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Attn: Agenda item #4: Request for a Special Election to Fill the District 1 Vacancy Dear Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers,
I am writing to you as a longtime Poway resident. I am requesting that a special election be held to fill the upcoming District 1 vacancy. District 1 residents deserve to vote for the person who will be representing their concerns. Having someone “appointed” rather than “elected”, feels very much like a stolen vote and unfortunately only increases the mistrust that many Poway citizens feel towards our local government. I realize that a special election comes at a financial cost, but democracy has always come at a cost.

Sherry Urena
14185 Arbolitos Drive

805-8151562
43 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
1-
From: Sharla Van Pelt
To: Steve Vaus; Caylin Frank; Brian Pepin; Anita Edmondson; Peter De Hoff; Carrie Gallagher Subject: Agenda Item 12 for Dec 3 City Council Meeting
Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024 7:48:22 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Do the right thing and hold a special election in district 1. Allowing Poway residents to participate in the selection process is the fair and democratic way.

I appreciate your time and expect you to make the RIGHT DECISION.

Sharla Van Pelt
Poway, CA
44 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
1-
From: L V
To: Councilmembers; City Clerk
Subject: 12/3/24 Council Meeting Item #12
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 12:24:07 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Dear Mayor Vaus and Poway City Councilmembers, I am writing to urge you to hold a special election to fill the District 1 vacancy created by Brian Pepin’s resignation. Poway deserves a transparent and democratic process that allows residents to choose their representative. Our city has a troubled history with appointments, which have eroded trust and created a sense of disconnection between the community and its leaders. In recent elections, voters made it clear they want accountability and representation, not decisions made behind closed doors. Appointing someone to this critical role would only deepen this lack of trust and undermine the democratic values our city stands for. A special election is not just a procedural formality—it’s a chance to show Poway residents that their voices matter. While the costs of a special election may be a concern, the long-term cost of public distrust is far greater. Giving District 1 voters the opportunity to choose their representative is an investment in our community’s future and the integrity of our local government. Please demonstrate your commitment to democracy and transparency by prioritizing the voices of District 1 residents. I urge you to hold a special election and let the people decide who will represent them. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Leslie Vanslager
13315 Powers Rd
Poway, CA 92064
858-722-0503
45 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
1-
From: Emilio Vargas
To: Councilmembers
Cc: City Clerk
Subject: Special election
Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024 6:50:10 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
I kindly request a special election for the replacement of our retiring council member.

Thank you
Best regards,
Emilio Vargas
Poway resident since 1998
46 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Christine Vickers
To: City Clerk
Cc: Councilmembers
Subject: December 3, 2024 Council Meeting - Item #12
Date: Monday, December 2, 2024 12:16:11 PM

EXTERNAL EMAIL
City Council Members:

The City of Poway Voters in District 1 deserve to vote who they feel should hold Brian Pepins seat on the City Council for the remainder of the term. I would like to see a Special Election to be held for the D1 Council seat.

In recent years I have seen the Poway City Council fill multiple vacant district council seats. Subsequently that council member gets elected to the next full term seat in that district. It has happened so frequently in recent memory that a sceptic might view this practice as done "by design".

The Poway residents have grown weary of and cynical of the Poway City Council 'electing' their choice of future Council seats.

I use the term 'electing' loosely as we
know voters will tend to vote by name recognition and exposure. Poway residents are also becoming increasingly aware of the council's preferred candidates, measures and pet projects of friends/associates being
heavily funded through multiple PACs,
donors and even each other. Furthermore, the leaked closed session shows the Council's disdain for the will of the voters while joking about future residents (The Farm Residents) who won't know what's coming ie: Life Time, promoting a North/South divide, and even derogatorily mentioning residents by name, just to name a few of the indiscretions during closed sessions.

The Council has ignored
petitions, rubber stamped changes to the General Plan and Specific Plans, regardless of the deviation of the change.

I have personally felt that The Farm Specific Plan was
just a white wash to "get it passed" and the rest would happen with the stroke of a pen.

The City of Poway Voters in District 1 deserve to vote who they feel should hold Brian Pepins seat on the City Council for the remainder of the term.

Regards,
Christine Vickers
47 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: Bob Walder
To: City Clerk
Subject: Call for special election
Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024 10:53:41 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Dear Ms Gallagher,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to formally recommend that a special election be scheduled to fill the vacant City Council seat left by Councilman Pepin, who recently resigned.

As this position is crucial for maintaining the proper representation of our community, it is important that we ensure its swift and fair filling in accordance with city regulations and the interests of our residents.

A special election would allow the citizens of Poway to have a direct say in who will represent their interests, providing a democratic and transparent process to ensure that the council operates at full capacity. Given the current vacancy, I believe a timely special election would help to restore the effective functioning of the council and address any concerns or issues that may arise in the absence of this key position.

I trust that you will consider this request and look forward to your response regarding the next steps. If there is anything I can assist with during this process, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,
Bob Walder
858-518-6882
48 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: Susan Wancewicz
To: Steve Vaus; Carrie Gallagher; Caylin Frank; Brian Pepin; Anita Edmondson; Peter De Hoff Subject: Agenda Item 12 for Dec 3 City Council Meeting" Date: Tuesday, December 3, 2024 9:14:04 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
I would like to have a special election held for the replacement of Brian Pepin. It is important to me that my representative be elected by his or her constituents.

Thank you,
Susan Wancewicz

49 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: Eric Weller
To: Councilmembers
Cc: City Clerk; Poway_Voices
Subject: 12/3 Council Meeting - Item # 12 - Special Election is best for District 1 and Poway as a whole Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024 2:06:23 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Good Afternoon Council Members and City Clerk,
Regarding December 3rd’s City Council agenda item number 12 and the discussion of filling an upcoming vacancy for the district one city Council member - it is in the best interest of Poway Residents for there to be a special election and not to have the seat filled with an appointment by the sitting Council.

Regards,
Eric Weller (cell 619-241-5950)
13844 Sagewood Dr., Poway, CA 92064
50 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
From: michele.wield
To: City Clerk; Councilmembers
Subject: No More Appointments
Date: Saturday, November 30, 2024 12:08:01 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Brian Pepin is resigning, and the council will be voting on how to replace him on Tuesday. No more special interest appointments. The people of Poway want a special election.

Brian Pepin collected about $75,000 in campaign donations from July 2021 and his November 2022 election. Very little of that came from Poway residents.

Poway voters are fed up, and they are paying attention. We want our council to represent us, not the wealthy donors.

Call a special election so that voters in D1 can chose their own representative on the council.
-Michele Wield
51 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
I
From: Lynn Wolsey
To: Steve Vaus; Caylin Frank; Brian Pepin; Anita Edmondson; Peter De Hoff; Carrie Gallagher Subject: Agenda Item 12 for Dec 3 City Council Meeting
Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024 11:44:39 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
I am writing to express my support for a special election so that residents of District 1 can choose their representative.
---
Lynn Wolsey
14008 York Avenue
Poway CA 92064
858.602.1504 (c)
[email protected]
52 of 52
December 3, 2024, Item #12
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Poway City CouncilDecember 3, 2024

Poway City Council
December 3, 2024