Letters to the Editor: A ‘Special’ Election for the Soul of Our City

ED WARD, San Clemente

During my one and only run at City Council politics last year, I met so many incredible people that it reaffirmed my love for our spirited city.

Unfortunately, my short sprint for a council seat also brought me face to face with the “alternative facts” and “science is optional” aspects of our city that are alive and well in so many Facebook groups.

Upon reading Cord Bauer’s recent Letter to the Editor, the righteous indignation of the misinformed and ill-advised was again on display.

In summarizing the complex homeless issue confronting many cities across the country, his overly simplistic claim that “this is not a homeless problem” rings about as true as claims that this country’s mass shooting problem is simply a “mental health issue.”

We are at a virtual and empirical crossroads in this city, and on this City Council. Recently, Councilmembers Dan Bane and Laura Ferguson attempted to swing the balance of power their way by nominating Gene James to fill the existing vacancy. This effort was thwarted by “Old Guard” Councilmembers Chris Hamm and Kathy Ward.

This special election puts the balance of this power swing in our hands. This election allows us, the electorate, the power to restore balance and critical thinking squarely between these two warring factions (the New Guard backing James, and the “establishment” Old Guard faction).  Allowing either of these factions the power of the pen can be devastating. What we need is balance!

We need a fifth councilmember who will work as an arbiter of truth, facts and logic to act as the “swing vote” between these two council camps.

We have two short months before this Nov. 5 mail-only election to learn all we can about the candidates currently qualified for the ballot and to determine who will best serve as our swing vote, logic-keeper on City Council.

Democracy works best in balance, and in my view, neither of these “warring” factions should be allowed to swing the balance of power their way.

We, the electorate, are the swing vote on Nov. 5! Let’s choose wisely!