M EMQRAN DLJ M City of Poway
ADDITIONAL MATERIALS
(Agenda Related Writings/Documents provided to City Council or Staff after distribution of the Agenda Packet for the May 6, 2025 Council Meeting)
DATE:
TO:
FROM:
CONTACT:
May 6, 2025
Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
Carrie Gallagher, City Clerk
(858) 668-4535 or [email protected]
SUBJECT: Item 10 - Ordinance to Amend Poway Municipal Code to Allow Imposition of Administrative Citations and Penalties for Violations of Law Attached please find correspondence received after the agenda posting deadline.
Reviewed/Approved By:
Wemlaserman
Assistant City Manager
1 of 43
Reviewed By:
Alan Fenstermacher
City Attorney
May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Mary Ellen Ambrose
City Clerk
City Council Meeting 5/6/2025 Re Agenda Item #10
Sunday, May 4, 2025 9:22:06 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
I am OPPOSED to the proposed ordinance #10 on the Council agenda.
Mary Ellen Ambrose
16961 Dorlyn Way
Poway
Sent from my iPad
2 of43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
J Boyce
Chris Pikus; Steve Vaus; Peter De Hoff; Jenny Maeda; Tony Blain; City Clerk #10 5/6/2025 council meeting
Monday, May 5, 2025 2:58:12 PM
I
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Mayor Vaus and Council members,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance that would allow the majority of council members to fine another council member of $1000 a day or any amount for that matter.
Thank you
Jennifer Boyce
3 of43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Frida Brunzel!
City Clerk
5/6/25 Council Meeting # 10
Sunday, May 4, 2025 5:01:42 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers,
I'm opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #10) that would allow councilmembers to fine each other up to $1000 per day. This could lead to perceived bias, political motivations and division in the community. Instead, consider referring violations to the DA, FPPC or CA Attorney General.
Sincerely,
Frida Brunzell
4of43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Jim Bunner
City Clerk
JAMES BUNNER
Re: 5/6 council meeting # 10
Monday, May 5, 2025 8:56:40 AM
LX TLR N/\L l-:ivl1\ IL
Dear City Council,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance, Item 10, that would allow a majority of the council the ability to impose fines on another councilperson.
Such an ordinance leads to more political attacks and further division in an already divide council.
Sincerely,
Jim Bunner
Poway residents
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5 of43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Timothy Burr
City Clerk
5/6/25 council agenda item # 10
Tuesday, May 6, 2025 7:50:55 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Have you sent an email to the council, opposing #10 on the council agenda? Those emails are due by noon on Monday, in order to be included in the agenda packet.
Your email does not have to be very long to count. One or two sentences is fine.
Address your email to the cityclerk and put the item number and date in the "Re" line.
Here is my email. You can borrow any part of it that you wish to reuse.
To: [email protected]
Re: 5/6/25 council meeting #10
Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #10) that would allow a majority of the councilmembers the ability to impose fines ofup to $1000 per day on another councilmember.
In my opinion, it is my wiser to refer violations to the DA, FPPC, or CA Attorney General rather than for councilmembers to fine each other.
Councilmembers going after each other is very likely to be perceived as politically motivated, and it may be more than perception. Allowing councilmembers the ability to fine other councilmembers would also have a chilling effect on potential council candidates who may want to run for council but have concerns for their family's financial situation.
This ordinance will create division in the community. The supporters of a councilmember who is fined are very likely to perceive bias as the reason for the imposition of the fines. Because some members are appointed by, or favored by the mayor, it will be hard to convince opponents that the council majority is acting impartially.
The current council has spent the last four months in a vendetta against one councilmember. Censures, ordinances, referrals to the DA, lawsuits, and openly supporting a recall, all against one councilmember. Because the council does not censure or reprimand any other council member for their infractions, there is a strong public perception that the council is not capable of judging each other's actions in a fair, just way. They are just out to get that one councilmember. An ordinance allowing a majority of councilmembers to fine their political opponent up to $ 1000 per day will deepen public perception that the council is obsessed with financially destroying a political opponent in any way possible.
Hopefully, the council will take a deep breath, and realize that you have gone off the deep end. Ordinances should not be written up with the intent to get rid of your political opponents. They should be written up for the good of the community. Please step back from your intense desire to get one person off the council, and try to re-focus on the needs and wants of the community.
Sincerely,
Timothy Burr
6 of43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
Sent from my iPhone with Aloha
7 of43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From: Nick Carruthers
To:
Subject:
City Clerk; Steve Vaus; Peter De Hoff; Tony Blain; Jenny Maeda; Chris Pikus; Chris Hazeltine Item 10, May 6th Meeting
Date:
Attachments:
EXTERNAL EMAIL
All,
Monday, May 5, 2025 8:34:58 AM
Comments for Council Mtg 5-6-25, Item 10.pdf
Please find comments , attached for Item 10 at tomorrow 's council meeting .
Thank you,
Nick
Nicholas Carruthers Ph.D
E-mail: 11 icarruth@gm ail.com
Mob ile: (858 )-366-5037
8 of43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
May 5th , 2025
Council Meeting, May 6th , 2025.
Item 10: Ordinance to Amend PMC to Allow Imposition of Administrative Citations & Penalties for Violations of Law Ordinance to Amend PMC to Allow Imposition of Administrative Citations & Penalties for Violations of Law.
Dear Mayor Vaus and Poway City Council Members and City Manager Chris Hazeltine:
While I share everyone's concerns about the recent lack of civility in council proceedings and the behavior of individual council members, I believe the implementation of the ordinance proposed in Item 10 will be a retrograde step for the following reasons.
1. Lack of Appeal Process: The ordinance eliminates the appeal process for administrative citations issued to City Council members, as the City Council itself is the highest legislative body. This removes an important layer of checks and balances, potentially leading to unfair or biased decisions.
2. Potential Conflict of Interest: The process requires City Council members to vote on administrative citations against their peers. This may create conflicts of interest or perceptions of bias, as Council members may have personal or political motivations influencing their decisions. Whether or not this is the case I believe it will be seen as biased.
3. Judicial Review Dependency: While the ordinance allows for judicial review, relying solely on the courts for oversight is both inefficient and burdensome, especially if disputes arise frequently.
4. Public Perception: The ordinance could be perceived as granting special treatment to City Council members by requiring advance notice and public hearings for citations, which I do not believe is the case for other individuals subject to administrative citations under the PMC.
These factors will almost certainly lead to concerns about fairness, transparency, and accountability in the enforcement of administrative citations. Given the current state of of Poway politics, I personally see this ordinance as adding fuel to the flames where I would prefer to see cooler heads prevail and solve disputes in a diplomatic manner with recourse to sensitivity and tact.
Sincerely,
Nick
Nicholas Carruthers Ph.D
E-mail: [email protected]
Mobile: (858)-366-5037
9 of43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Sandy Casey
City Clerk
Bob Casey; Sandy Casey
Re: 5/6/25 council meeting #10
Sunday, May 4, 2025 10:08:03 PM
EXTERN;\L EMA IL
Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers,
We are opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #10) that would allow a majority of the councilmembers the ability to impose fines of up to $ 1000 per day on another councilmember.
We can't believe you all think this is the right thing to do.
In our opinion, it is better to refer violations to the DA, FPPC, or CA Attorney General rather than for councilmembers to fine each other.
Council members should not be allowed to go after other council members in this way as it would seem to be a vandetta against someone because you don't agree with their opinions/votes, etc.
This mayor and council have already lost the trust of many people in Poway and this could be seen by many as corruption.
Hopefully Vaus and the council will realize that you have gone off the deep end. Ordinances should not be written up with the intent to get rid of your political opponents! They should be written up for the good of the community. Please step back from your intense desire to get one person off the council, and try to re-focus on the needs and wants of the community. Please stop trying to tear our community apart with all your infighting.
Sincerely,
Sandra and Bob Casey
Yahoo Mail: Search. Organize, Conquer
10 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Mechele Chadwick
City Clerk
5/6/25 council meeting # 10
Tuesday, May 6, 2025 7:50:56 AM
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Mayor Vaus and Council members,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item # 10) that would allow a majority of the council members the ability to impose fines of up to $1000 per day on another council member. The actions of the council person being targeted are minor in comparison to the past actions of the mayor and other (past and current) council members. This proposed ordinance is petty and an embarrassment for the residents of Poway.
Mechele Chadwick
District 4 resident
11 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Christine Vickers
City Clerk; Chris Pikus; Steve Vaus; Peter De Hoff; [email protected]; Jenny Maeda 5/6/25 council meeting # 10
Monday, May 5, 2025 12:59:22 PM
EXTERN;\L EMAIL
Mayor Vaus, Poway City Council Members,
I am opposed to the council seeking to impose fines of up to $1000 per day on another councilmember.
We know we are not perfect, we say and do things that may seem wrong to others. A conversation, forgiveness and an attempt to work together is a good start. A financial fine surely gives the perception as being politically motivated and does not show our city as good neighbors. It also gives the appearance of child-like punishment.
Be the adult in the room, teach newcomers, and learn from them as well, we can all do better.
Christine
12 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
chris cruse
City Clerk
5/6/25 council Meeting #10
Sunday, May 4, 2025 4:52:57 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL
Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #IO) that would allow a majority of the councilmembers the ability to impose fines ofup to $1000 per day on another councilmember.
In my opinion, it is my wiser to refer violations to the DA, FPPC, or CA Attorney General rather than for councilmembers to fine each other. Councilmembers going after each other is very likely to be perceived as politically motivated, and it may be more than perception. Allowing councilmembers that ability to fine other councilmembers would also have a chilling effect on potential council candidates who may want to run for council but have concerns for their family's financial situation.
This ordinance will create division in the community. The supporters of a councilmember who is fined are very likely to perceive bias as the reason for the imposition of the fines. Because some members are appointed by, or favored by the mayor, it will be hard to convince opponents that the council majority is acting impartially.
The current council has spent the last four months in a vendetta against one councilmember. Censures, ordinances, referrals to the DA, lawsuits, and openly supporting a recall, all against one councilmember. Because the council does not censure or reprimand any other council member for their infractions, there is a strong public perception that the council is not capable of judging each other's actions in a fair, just way. They are just out to get that one councilmember. An ordinance allowing a majority of councilmembers to fine their political opponent up to $ 1000 per day will deepen public perception that the council is obsessed with financially destroying a political opponent in any way possible.
Hopefully, the council will take a deep breath, and realize that you have gone off the deep end. Ordinances should not be written up with the intent to get rid of your political opponents. They should be written up for the good of the community. Please step back from your intense desire to get one person off the council, and try to re-focus on the needs and wants of the community.
Sincerely,
Chris Cruse
13 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Stephanie Duprea
City Clerk
5/6/25 council meeting # 10
Monday, May 5, 2025 2:58:15 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Mayor Vaus and <=;ouncilmembers,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #10) that would allow a majority of the councilmembers the ability to impose fines of up to $ 1000 per day on another councilmember.
In my opinion, it is my wiser to refer violations to the DA, FPPC, or CA Attorney General rather than for councilmembers to fine each other.
Councilmembers going after each other is very likely to be perceived as politically motivated, and it may be more than perception. Allowing councilmembers the ability to fine other councilmembers would also have a chilling effect on potential council candidates who may want to run for council but have concerns for their family's financial situation.
This ordinance will create division in the community. The supporters of a councilmember who is fined are very likely to perceive bias as the reason for the imposition of the fines. Because some members are appointed by, or favored by the mayor, it will be hard to convince opponents that the council majority is acting impartially.
The current council has spent the last four months in a vendetta against one councilmember. Censures, ordinances, referrals to the DA, lawsuits, and openly supporting a recall, all against one councilmember. Because the council does not censure or reprimand any other council member for their infractions, there is a strong public perception that the council is not capable of judging each other's actions in a fair, just way. They are just out to get that one councilmember. An ordinance allowing a majority of councilmembers to fine their political opponent up to $ 1000 per day will deepen public perception that the council is obsessed with financially destroying a political opponent in any way possible.
Hopefully, the council will take a deep breath, and realize that you have gone off the deep end. Ordinances should not be written up with the intent to get rid of your political opponents. They should be written up for the good of the community. Please step back from your intense desire to get one person off the council, and try to re-focus on the needs and wants of the community.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Duprea
14 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
John Fisher
City Clerk
May 6 council meeting Item #10
Monday, May 5, 2025 9:04:03 AM
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Mayor Vaus and members of the city council,
I am writing to express my opposition to Item # 10.
This item is a not-at-all veiled response to the actions of Councilmember Blaine. I do not agree with the concerning actions of Councilmember Blaine in any way, shape or form.
However, this is not the correct remediation action.
What I have discovered, after 35 years of public service, is that taking a shotgun effect approach to single issue problems rarely works. Rather, it tends to create unintended consequences. For example, in this case, the rule would put the onus of investigation upon city staff. If nothing else, that creates a time sink (and expense) when staff could be better used performing their primary duties.
What happens when the balance of power shifts, and a different council member becomes the target of the majority?
What happens when a lawsuit is filed against city staff as the result of their investigation? Instead, I recommend that city staff forward possible ethical and legal concerns to already existing agencies that are more appropriate for investigating these concerns. Agencies such as the FPPC, District Attorney, and Attorney General are more appropriate to investigate legal and ethical concerns than city staff is.
Thank you for considering my concerns,
John Fisher
14243 Woodcreek Rd
15 of43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Jan Hamilton
City Clerk
5/6/2025 Council Meeting # 10
Tuesday, May 6, 2025 7:50:50 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Dear Mayor Vaus and Council Members,
Please do not approve the proposed ordinance, Item I 0.
No matter how objectionable you may find a council member's behavior, your job is to work together for the good of Poway and your constituents.
The threat of fines levied against each other is counterproductive to the best interests of the city in every way.
Reject Item 10 at this week's meeting.
Janet Hamilton
District I
16 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
~
City Clerk
Council meeting on 5/6/2025: item # 10
Monday, May 5, 2025 2:58:36 PM
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Mayor Vaus and council members,
I am writing to vehemently oppose the proposed ordnance # 10, that is being presented.
Allowing council members to impose fines on one another is setting up an avenue for grade school playground tactics. Policing from within never works. If a council member has truly broken the law or acts unjustly, please a justice system of a real court of law.
Concerned Poway resident,
Kelly Harris
17 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
cjchiqhvalleynew
City Clerk
Item #10
Tuesday, May 6, 2025 7:50:48 AM
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We oppose giving some council members the right to fine other council members. Council members were elected to conduct the business of the people of Poway, not to waste time and money attempting to cancel each other at taxpayer expense.
This would impair free speech and discourage free debate and would discourage non majority candidates from running for office for fear of monetary penalties being imposed.
Judith and Charles Hayes
Yahoo Mail: Search. Organize. Conquer
18 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Dan Heuschele
City Clerk
Opposition to # 10
Thursday, May 1, 2025 9:05:09 AM
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I am 100% against #10. I believe fining anyone without an option for judicial due process is bad policy and possibly illegal. In addition, it can be used to stymie views that are not aligned with the majority of council members. I could see this discouraging people from running for city council. Note the last council positions had a total of 5 candidates. We should be encouraging additional candidates, not discouraging people from running.
Final reason is this can be used to stifle the representation on a Poway district. I especially feel that council members elected by their constituents should have the freedom to act in accordance with the platform that got them elected.
It is a bad policy that is being proposed to eliminate contrary views and to stifle an elected council member.
Thanks,
Dan Heuschele (resident of D2)
19 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Koral Baumann
City Clerk
May 6th council meeting?
Sunday, May 4, 2025 3:26:47 PM
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I am against the proposal #10 on the May 6th agenda- a proposed new ordinance where the Poway City Council can impose fines up to $1000 on other city council members that they deem to have violated a city code or the Brown Act, or arty-client privilege, or destruction of records. I think you should research and find another type of penalty for these violations if needed but $1000 is extremely excessive especially when the decision is left up to a very small clique/group.
Sincerely,
Koral Baumann - Poway resident, Vineland Hills
20 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
valerie lawrence
City Clerk
5/6/25 council meeting #10
Sunday, May 4, 2025 6:20:36 PM
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Mayor Vaus and council members
I am opposed to the ordinance # 10. Ordinances are not meant to rid yourself of a political opponent nor are they intended to financially damage a political opponent. Ordinances are meant to work for the good of the people in Poway. Please remember why you were voted in, in the first place. Stop bickering and focus on what's best for powegians Sincerly,
Valerie Lawrence
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
21 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Carol Lord Heuschele
City Clerk
RE: 5/6/25/cit:y council meeting item # 10
Monday, May 5, 2025 10:20:44 AM
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Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (item #10) that would allow councilmembers to impose fines on another councilmember.
Allowing one group to impose fines on another will eliminate a fair democratic process in our city. If there are issues with one another, these should be taken up with the District Attorney or other authorities. Ordinances should not be written up with the intent to get rid of your political opponents, instead you should work together and find common ground for the good of Poway.
Fair and free elections should be the goal, not divisiveness.
Sincerely,
Carol Lord
(resident D2)
22 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Karen
Jenny Maeda; Peter De Hoff; Tony Blain; Steve Vaus; City Clerk; Chris Pikus Re: 5/6/25 council meeting #10
Monday, May 5, 2025 12:31:53 PM
I
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EXTE RN;\L Elvl;\I L
Mayor Vaus and Council members,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item # I 0) that would allow a majority of the council members the ability to impose fines of up to $1000 per day on another council member.
In my opinion, it is my wiser to refer violations to the DA, FPPC, or CA Attorney General rather than for council members to fine each other.
Council members going after each other is very likely to be perceived as politically motivated, and it may be more than perception. Allowing council members the ability to fine other council members would also have a chilling effect on potential council candidates who may want to run for council but have concerns for their family's financial situation.
This ordinance will create division in the community.
Again, please, do not pass this proposed ordinance.
A concerned 25+year Poway citizen,
Karen Machamer
23 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
[email protected]
Carrie Gallagher
May 6 Agenda Items 10 - 11(?)
Monday, May 5, 2025 2:15:51 PM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Dear Ms. Gallagher:
Please forward this to all members of the City Council.
I oppose this ordinance. It is obviously intended to punish and intimidate Councilman Tony Blain. Legislation that targets individuals without judicial action is called a Bill of Attainder and Congress is prohibited by ArtI.S9. 3.1. ofthe U.S. Constitution from passing any such legislation.
The Council should consider independently and very carefully whether they will continue to surrender the considerable powers of the city government to a mayor pursuing a personal and political vendetta. Please restore common sense and decency to Poway's most visible governing body.
Thank you for your consideration.
Theresa Mann
13382 Calle Colina
24 of43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
[email protected]
City Clerk
5/6/25 council meeting # 10
Monday, May 5, 2025 9:32:06 AM
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EXTERNAL EMAIL
Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers,
I am in support of agenda item #10. Reading through it the only thing that is unclear to me is how is this enforced? Observing the recent behavior of a certain council member that seems to feel he is above any kind of rules, laws or policies, I highly doubt if he is given one of these fines that he will pay. There either needs to be consequences for not paying, such as being dismissed from the role, or it should be deduced from the compensation which is probably impossible in California. Hopefully this is covered under some other general policy. It would be great if enforcement could be discussed in the meeting Tuesday.
Thank you.
Don Martin
District 2 Resident
25 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Juzar Merchant
City Clerk
Re: Council Meeting on 5/6/25, Item #10
Monday, May 5, 2025 7:54:43 AM
I You don't often get email from [email protected] . Learn why this is important EXTERNAL EiVIA IL
And furthermore, these charges imply that no city council member conducts city business off city premises. For example, at fundraisers, can every city council member claim no city business has ever been discussed? What about on websites to which city council members have either authored articles? Can it be verified that all the information in those "articles" was obtained while the council member was not on city premises? If the city were truly serious about this, some of these obvious items would be investigated - but that is not what this is really about, is it?
On Mon, May 5, 2025 at 7:41 AM Juzar Merchant <[email protected]> wrote:
City Council Members,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item # 10) that would allow a majority of the council members the ability to impose fines of up to $1000 per day on another councilmember
This reeks of political motivation in an attempt to single out other council members for various reasons by selectively enforcing "laws". City Council are not qualified as legal, and even with legal consultation, it all depends on who the city attorney is aligned with.
It is quite obvious from Alan Festermacher's recent quotes that he himself is in on the witchhunt for Tony Blain, so we have a city attorney who has picked sides, but pretends to be "impartial" (i.e. his "impartial analysis" on Measure H, which was so obviously extremely partial due to omission of key details). With these types of rules, and the city attorney in your back pocket, there is no limit to the havoc that a corrupt council can cause.
My Input: Absolutely NO on this bad idea.
Sincerely,
Juzar Merchant
26 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Juzar Merchant
City Clerk
Council Meeting on 5/6/25, Item #10
Monday, May 5, 2025 7:41:47 AM
I You don't often get email from [email protected] . Learn whv this is imoorta nt EXTERNA L EiVI/\ IL
City Council Members,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #10) that would allow a majority of the council members the ability to impose fines of up to $1000 per day on another councilmember This reeks of political motivation in an attempt to single out other council members for various reasons by selectively enforcing "laws". City Council are not qualified as legal, and even with legal consultation , it all depends on who the city attorney is aligned with.
It is quite obvious from Alan Festermacher's recent quotes that he himself is in on the witchhunt for Tony Blain, so we have a city attorney who has picked sides, but pretends to be "impartial" (i.e. his "impartial analysis" on Measure H, which was so obviously extremely partial due to omission of key details). With these types ofrules, and the city attorney in your back pocket, there is no limit to the havoc that a corrupt council can cause.
My Input: Absolutely NO on this bad idea.
Sincerely,
Juzar Merchant
27 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Peter Neild
Citv Clerk; Chris Pikus; Steve Vaus
Item # 10 City Council Meeting 5/6/25
Monday, May 5, 2025 12:40:27 PM
EXTERNAL EMAIL
Conside r this a District 1 citizen requested NO vote for Item #10 on tomorrow's meeting agenda.
Peter J. Neild
12648 Butterwood Ct, Poway, CA 92064
28 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
GALE PETZRICK
City Clerk
5/6/25 council meeting-#10
Monday, May 5, 2025 7:51:26 AM
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Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #10) that would allow a majority of the council members the ability to impose fines of up to $1000 per day on another councilmember.
In my opinion, it is my wiser to refer violations to the DA, FPPC, or CA Attorney General rather than for council members to fine each other.
This could easily be used as a political weapon against one viewpoint and should not be used in a democracy.
Thank you,
Gale Petzrick
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
29 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Preston Plumb
City Clerk
05/06/2025 Council Meeting Agenda Item #10
Monday, May 5, 2025 1:47:42 PM
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I just noticed that the Council is considering allowing the Council by majority vote to impose fines on other members. I can't imagine a more ill-advised move.
Pres Plumb
13630 Marigold Dr, Poway, CA 92064
30 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
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To:
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Tony Ouaqlietta
City Clerk
5/6/25 council meeting # 10
Monday, May 5, 2025 2:57:59 PM
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Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #10) that would allow a majority of the councilmembers the ability to impose fines of up to $1000 per day on another councilmember.
In my opinion, it is my wiser to refer violations to the DA, FPPC, or CA Attorney General rather than for councilmembers to fine each other.
Councilmembers going after each other is very likely to be perceived as politically motivated, and it may be more than perception. Allowing councilmembers the ability to fine other councilmembers would also have a chilling effect on potential council candidates who may want to run for council but have concerns for their family's financial situation.
This ordinance will create division in the community. The supporters of a councilmember who is fined are very likely to perceive bias as the reason for the imposition of the fines. Because some members are appointed by, or favored by the mayor, it will be hard to convince opponents that the council majority is acting impartially.
The current council has spent the last four months in a vendetta against one councilmember.
Censures, ordinances, referrals to the DA, lawsuits, and openly supporting a recall, all against one councilmember. Because the council does not censure or reprimand any other council member for their infractions, there is a strong public perception that the council is not capable of judging each other's actions in a fair, just way. They are just out to get that one councilmember. An ordinance allowing a majority of councilmembers to fine their political opponent up to $1000 per day will deepen public perception that the council is obsessed with financially destroying a political opponent in any way possible.
Hopefully, the council will take a deep breath, and realize that you have gone off the deep end. Ordinances should not be written up with the intent to get rid of your political opponents. They should be written up for the good of the community. Please step back from your intense desire to get one person off the council, and try to re-focus on the needs and wants of the community.
Sincerely,
Anthony Quaglietta
732.406.5392
31 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
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Anna Quint
City Clerk
5/6/25 council meeting # 10
Monday, May 5, 2025 7:45:51 AM
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Mayor Vaus and Council Members,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item # 10) that would allow a majority of the council members the ability to impose fines ofup to $1,000 per day on another council member.
Any suspected violations should be referred to the DA, FPPC, or CA Attorney General rather than for council members to fine each other. This is ripe for abuse and potential conflicts of interest that could bring additional expensive litigation.
Council members fining other council members only produces division and reduces the decorum necessary for council work. It will discourage potential candidates who will recognize disagreeing with Vaus and his majority will be met with organized attacks and unprecedented financial ramifications.
The current council has spent the last four months in a vendetta against one council member. Censures, ordinances, referrals to the DA, lawsuits, and openly supporting a recall, all against one council member. Because the council does not censure or reprimand any other council member for their infractions, there is a strong public perception that the council is not capable of judging each other's actions in a fair and just way.
An ordinance allowing a majority of council members to fine their political opponents up to $1000 per day will deepen public perception that the council is obsessed with financially destroying a political opponent in any way possible.
This is the definition of dirty politics which may align perfectly with the council's interest but certainly is not what the community supports.
Please try to re-focus on the needs and wants of the community.
Sincerely,
Anna Quint
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32 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
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cynthia brmarketing.com
City Clerk
5/6 council meeting #10
Monday, May 5, 2025 2:58:21 PM
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Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #10) that would allow a majority of the councilmembers the ability to impose fines of up to $1000 per day on another councilmember.
Councilmembers going after each other is very likely to be perceived as politically motivated, and it may be more than perception. Allowing councilmembers the ability to fine other councilmembers would also have a chilling effect on potential council candidates who may want to run for council but have concerns for their family's financial situation.
Cynthia Rhine
Even if we disagree about everything, we can still be kind to each other.
33 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
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[email protected]
City Clerk
5/6/25 council meeting # 10
Monday, May 5, 2025 11:55:17 AM
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Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #10) that would allow a majority of the councilmembers the ability to impose fines of up to $1000 per day on another councilmember. You actions continue to create division in the community. Hopefully, the council will take a step back and realize that this is not good for Poway and re-focus on the needs and wants of the community.
Sincerely,
Amy Ramaker
34 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
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Patricia Rowean
City Clerk
#10 on City Council Meeting 05/06/2025
Wednesday, April 30, 2025 12:15:38 PM
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My husband and I want to express strong opposition to Agenda# IO proposed new ordinance on the May 6th meeting agenda. This can create all kinds of problems as a majority of city council members can arbitrarily decide to punish another member for purely political reasons. Please do not pass! Sent from my iPad
35 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
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Jocelvn Scott
City Clerk
5/6/25 council meeting #10
Monday, May 5, 2025 2:58:10 PM
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Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item # I 0) that would allow a majority of the councilmembers the ability to impose fines of up to $1000 per day on another councilmember.
There are current California laws and processes to persuade council members to treat other council members, city employees and community members respectfully.
I do appreciate the City of Poway taking legal action against Councilman Blain.
However, Mr. Blain (or any council member) is entitled to impartial due process by the court system as a way to cause behavior change - or not - versus daily fines from the majority councilmembers. I'm also concerned if this would infringe on free speech.
Suggest you table this ordinance.
Sincerely,
Jocelyn Scott
13831 Wayland Grove Court
Poway
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36 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
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Date:
Bernadette Simi
City Clerk
5/6/25 council meeting # 10
Sunday, May 4, 2025 10:34:08 PM
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Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers ,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #10) that would allow a majority of the councilmembers the ability to impose fines ofup to $1000 per day on another councilmember.
This feels like a political agenda and litigious defense strategy to both discourage any council member to defend themselves from the majority as well as financially place any member from financially supporting their own legal defense. The unfair advantage again only benefits the city council to further not be held to any fair accountability.
Please reconsider your position in this matter.
Sincerely,
Bernadette Simi
37 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
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Date:
Leigh Ann Smith
Citv Clerk
Opposition to Item #10 on May 6th city council agenda
Thursday, May 1, 2025 2:09:57 PM
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Please register my opposition to #10 on the May 6th agenda- a proposed new ordinance where the Poway City Council can impose fines up to $1000 on other city council members that they deem to have violated a city code or the Brown Act, or arty-client privilege, or destruction of records.
Thank you,
Leigh Ann Smith
38 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
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Camille
City Clerk
Re: 5/6/25 council meeting # 10
Sunday, May 4, 2025 5:27:21 PM
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Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers,
Re: 5/6/25 council meeting #10
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #10) that would allow a majority of the councilmembers the ability to impose fines of up to $ 1000 per day on another councilmember.
This seems very politically motivated. We have all watched for weeks the vendetta against one council member.
We all get it you don't like Blain. In my opinion I have seen behavior from the Mayor and other council, they have talked negative of people in this community- which I believe is just as bad. Are they going to get fined? I believe a large number of us think they are not doing this for Poway best interest but because they are doing to try to push Blain out. The constituents of that district voted for him and we should leave it at that. There an active recall if the community feels strongly they will vote him out.
This ordinance will create deep division in the community. I don't believe this is power that should be given to anyone.
Regards,
Camille Stewart
Sent from my iPhone
39 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
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Roxanne Straqier
City Clerk; Chris Pikus; Steve Vaus; Peter De Hoff; [email protected]; Jenny Maeda 5/6/25 council meeting #10
Monday, May 5, 2025 12:54:43 PM
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Mayor Vaus and Council members,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #10) that would allow a majority of the councilmembers the ability to impose fines of up to $1000 per day on another councilmember.
Ordinances should not be created with the intent to punish political opponents.
Sincerely,
Roxanne Stragier
13 520 Apache Rd
Poway
40 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
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Subject:
Date:
Bob Walder
City Clerk
Item number 10 on 5/6/25 calendar
Monday, May 5, 2025 11:23:03 AM
EXTERNAL EMAIL
I have already submitted a comment against such an act. After researching the issue, here is an on point argument against.
Regarding Item No. I 0, any such ordinance would be a constitutionally prohibited bill of attainder.
A bill of attainder is a legislative act that declares a person or group guilty of a crime and imposes punishment without a trial or judicial process and is prohibited by both the US and California Constitutions. While the prohibition in the U.S. Constitution is directed at the federal government and states, it also applies to their subdivisions, including cities, as they are creatures of the state. California Constitution's Article I, Section 9, also explicitly prohibits passing any bill of attainder which includes those by a city government.
Bob Walder
858-518-6882
41 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
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To:
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Date:
Bob Walder
City Clerk
Item 10 on 5/6/25 council agenda
Monday, May 5, 2025 7:29:25 AM
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Mayor Vaus and Council members,
I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #10) that would allow a majority of the councilmembers the ability to impose fines ofup to $1000 per day on another council-member.
It is the job of the DA, FPPC, or CA Attorney General to determine the penalties of a crime rather than for council members to fine each other.
Council members going after each other will be perceived as politically motivated. The mayor and city council have already lost the confidence of most citizens of Poway. Allowing this to occur will just further validate their opinion.
This ordinance will create division in the community. The supporters of a council member who is fined are very likely to perceive bias as the reason for the imposition of the fines. Because some members are appointed by, or favored by the mayor, it will be hard to convince opponents that the council majority is acting impartially.
The current council has spent the last four months in a vendetta against one councilmember . Censures, ordinances, referrals to the DA, lawsuits , and openly supporting a recall, all against one councilmember. Because the council does not censure or reprimand any other council member for their infractions, there is a strong public perception that the council is not capable of judging each other's actions in a fair, just way. They are just out to get that one council member. An ordinance allowing a majority of council members to fine their political opponent up to $ 1000 per day will deepen public perception that the council is obsessed with financially destroying a political opponent in any way possible.
Hopefully, the council will take a deep breath, and realize that they have erred. Ordinances should not be written up with the intent to get rid of your political opponents. They should be written up for the good of the community.
Please step back from your intense desire to get one person off the council, and try to re-focus on the needs and wants of the community.
Sincerely,
Bob Walder
858-518-6882
42 of43 May 6, 2025, Item #10
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Yulia K. White
City Clerk
5/6/25 council meeting # 10
Monday, May 5, 2025 11:20:45 AM
I You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is imoortant EXTERN/\ L EiVI/\IL
Mayor Vaus and Councilmembers, I am opposed to the proposed ordinance (Item #10) that would allow a majority of the councilmembers the ability to impose fines of up to $1000 per day on another councilmember. In my opinion, it is my wiser to refer violations to the DA, FPPC, or CA Attorney General rather than for councilmembers to fine each other. Councilmembers going after each other is very likely to be perceived as politically motivated, and it may be more than perception. Allowing councilmembers the ability to fine other councilmembers would also have a chilling effect on potential council candidates who may want to run for council but have concerns for their family's financial situation.
Hopefully, the council will take a deep breath, and realize that you have gone off the deep end. Ordinances should not be written up with the intent to get rid of your political opponents. They should be written up for the good of the community. Please step back from your intense desire to get one person off the council, and try to re- focus on the needs and wants of the community. •
Sincerely,
Yulia White
Sent from my iPhone
43 of 43 May 6, 2025, Item #10