In August, the HB Huddle Local Elections Team and Steering Team developed a questionnaire for Huntington Beach City Council candidates. The questionnaire was sent to all 15 candidates running for HB City Council. We received responses from seven candidates. The following are their unedited answers to our questions. Their answers are presented here in alphabetical order.
As advocates for informed voting, we hope these responses will educate community members about city issues and where the candidates stand on those issues. The election is coming up on Nov. 6, 2018 and voters will be able to vote for up to four City Council candidates.
1) How would you create affordable housing in our city? Does high density housing fit into those plans? If so where can this type of housing be built?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Our current housing code requires developers to set aside 10% of any new project for affordable units. Back in the early 90’s, the city issued a bond to help build affordable housing for seniors (Emerald Cove, Five Points Senior Apts. and Huntington Gardens). With the addition of these apartments the city now has over 600 units available to seniors who are classified as very low-income to moderate income. In addition, there are currently over 900 affordable units available to people who qualify under very low-income earners up to moderate income earners.
Unfortunately, the state took away the city’s redevelopment funds which aided in projects like the low-income senior housing development. While we can’t offer loan incentives for developers to set aside more units for affordable housing (and Huntington Beach is pretty much built-out at this point anyway) I would explore opportunities for the city to offer any tax incentives to current apartment owners for additional affordable inventory. This would be purely voluntary and on a limited basis to apartment owners who commit to keeping their buildings up to code and city standards. The last thing we want to see is are apartments operated by “slumlords” who take advantage of city and state tax incentives but create poor living conditions for their residents and neighbors.
I am strongly opposed to large, high-density developments. The residents have spoken loudly against HDD and we can build affordable housing without it being HDD. We need to incorporate affordable housing into every new development and create long-term sustainable solutions without impacting the residents’ quality of life.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Take advantage of state laws within market rate housing, give developers incentives within market rate projects integration inclusionary housing set aside. There are no plans for high density housing in our city at this time. Reuse of existing developments that under used. Local planning is better than being told by the state.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]As much as I personally support affordable housing development built in our city, it appears that our infrastructure and safety personnel cannot support our current population. A majority of the residents of Huntington Beach do not want to see any more Hight Density Development built due to the congestion and impact on their quality of life. I would support Huntington Beach purchasing single family, 4 plexus and town homes that are in foreclosure or distressed sales; remodel them, and have these current dwellings added to inventory to be included in the Huntington Beach’s current “inclusionary Housing Program”.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I do not support development for private use, Only for public use.[/read]
Dan Kalmick: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]As a Planning Commission for the past 6 years I’ve voted to create multiple Affordable Housing (proper noun) opportunities within this City. The residents of Huntington Beach don’t want High Density Development, so we must work to amend the Zoning Code to create “attainable housing” in whatever unique design that takes, while trying to come into compliance with State housing law so that we don’t lose local building control. There is enough developable land and underutilized land in HB to create attainable housing opportunities, which would mean smaller homes on smaller lot sizes without densities of greater than 35 du / acre. But with land being the most expensive component, there are few opportunities to develop housing stock. With a potential change in the Boeing industrial area, any large redevelopment of that property must contain not only workforce housing but company housing for its employees.[/read]
Shayna Lathus:[read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]There is no easy solution to these problems. Homelessness and affordable housing is a complicated issue. First and foremost, I believe the city should work with county homelessness and housing groups to get these people off the street, particularly those that emphasize job training. The city should also work with local businesses, churches, motels, and other institutions to find additional beds and shelter.
Affordable housing are units that are roughly 30 percent or less of a family’s income. While the state’s economy is booming, people are still having trouble finding housing at this rate. Much of that has to do with a lack of inventory. We need to develop more housing stock and encourage development, and in a smart way that encourages walkability in our downtown core. Studies have shown in pilot cities that by doing so, cities can lower market rent significantly. [/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Increase wages for working people. No.[/read]
2) Where do you stand on Regional Housing Needs Assessment issues?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]According to the RHNA we are short 2,000 housing units in HB, however this number is inflated and based on faulty data regarding our the city’s population growth. The city successfully fought the state on this requirement because we are a charter city, however we still need a housing plan that is consistent with the General Plan. I support the need for more homes in Huntington Beach but I do not support the state dictating to the city how many homes we need to build or penalizing the city for failing to do so.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]It is a mandate given by State that all municipalities in CA must comply. Generally if a city makes a concerted effort to create affordable housing for low, very low in the past the state worked with that. Due to the shortage of housing in general the state is getting involved and again mandating when and where housing will or could be built. I prefer local control we owe it to our citizens to create the rules if possible.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I agree with the assessment that Huntington Beach has fallen short on its obligation to provide additional affordable housing inventory and I would vote in favor of the city acquiring more single family homes and multi-unit homes to build up its inventory for its low income residents.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I believe that the Southern California Association of Governments is a agency that should not exist as it takes away local control.[/read]
Dan Kalmick:[read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]State Housing Law trumps our local ability to zone housing. The City of HB is currently being sued by the Kennedy Commission on three different points than what the City “won” on earlier in the year. Including our acceptance of our current RHNA number. I believe the City will lose the case against the Kennedy Commission. We accepted our RHNA number and are claiming that now we don’t have to? The next housing element update cycle starts in 2021 which means we’ll need to begin preparing an update to our Housing Element next year. Our new RHNA number is going to be in excess of 2000 affordable units – zoned somewhere in the City. If the City of Huntington Beach does not certify a Housing Element, the State could remove our ability to issue ANY and ALL building permits…no kitchen remodels, no bedroom additions let alone any new development or redevelopment. This has happened to more than 50 cities in the State. Additionally, SB35 has allowed three other cities to have their zoning code usurped without any local control because of lack of a certified Housing Element.[/read]
Shayna Lathus:[read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]The Regional Housing Needs Assessment’s (RHNA) goals under the Southern California Association of Governments is to survey a jurisdiction and make sure that housing is available for all income levels, and meet housing goals. I believe the city should meet these goals stipulated under this assessment so that residents can find housing relief.[/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]We need to have workforce housing.[/read]
3) What is your plan to regulate assisted living and sober living facilities in our city?
Kim Carr:[read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]We should be approaching this issue on a variety of levels. First, we need to push our state legislators to write meaningful bills to address local needs. We’ve all heard the argument that the problem can’t be fixed locally due to state laws. If that is truly the case, then we need to demand our elected state senators and assembly representatives do their job and address our needs. Our city council should be taking a pro-active stance and having regular meetings with our state representatives to make this happen. Second, we need to encourage insurance companies to hold sober-living homes accountable. They should be investigating, evaluating success results and only providing insurance payments to homes that are performing and maintaining a high-level of care. Finally, the Orange County Board of Supervisors recently approved over $700K in funding to investigate and prosecute illegal group homes. We should be reaching out to the district attorney and see if we can put a stop to any illegal group homes in the city.[/read]
Darren Elllis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]State law is clear in that cities can only treat a licensed “alcohol or drug abuse recovery or treatment facility” with six or fewer residents the same as it treats any single-family residence. I am very aware that people who live next to or near these facilities are greatly impacted. I would take a more compassionate approach to find a common ground so both may exist together with minimal cost to quality of life. Also, I would support that these facilities be permitted to be in or around ares of Huntington Beach that are deemed Commercial use only.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I think a Task Force should address this issue. Three Councilmen should serve on the Sober Living Task Force.[/read]
Dan Kalmick: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Assisted Living facilities are in great need for our City, but they must be in correct and zoned appropriate areas of our City. Sober Living homes of 6 or under are considered families and do not allow for local regulation. I will work with our newly elected Congressman and State representatives to create a comprehensive lobbying campaign to not only get our local support but from friends and families in other states to bring this issue to the forefront of Congress in order to make changes to the ACA, FHA and ADA to allow for local control and regulation of sober living homes. One inroad we may have is to work with our neighboring cities to limit zoning of outpatient rehabilitation facilities since Sober Living Homes do not allow treatment on site.[/read]
Shayna Lathus: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I believe there is a need for assisted living and sober living facilities within the county, but they must be regulated more in our city. We need to implement regulations and work with these providers to enact noise restrictions, parking regulation, and smoking locations that are away from the immediate vicinity of neighbors. To do so, we also need greater code enforcement, and to work with the county and adjacent cities that are also dealing with this issue. Many of these residencies are also unlicensed, and it’s likely when the tenant runs out of money, they add to our homeless population. To stop that, we need make job training and community service more available so that won’t happen.[/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Its a federal issue. Active code enforcement.[/read]
4) Do you support the establishment of a city sponsored homeless shelter? Why or why not?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Yes. I would be in support of homeless shelter in HB provided that the county, state and feds funded this project and had a complete plan to ensure it will be successful. The city does not have the funds to operate a homeless shelter adequately and to do this right will require millions of dollars. We need to get this funding from outside sources.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Homelessness is a county wide issue that can best be solved if each community takes action and steps up to serve and protect the most vulnerable. I am aware that there is a portion of the homeless population that suffers from mental illness or substance abuse, refuses treatment and prefers sleeping outside of shelters. This population should not deter us to recognize that there is a majority population of homelessness that need temporary support and would benefit from a city sponsored shelter. This population includes; unemployed, wounded veterans, people with substance abuse issues seeking treatment, woman and children escaping abusive relationships, and people who have encountered catastrophic life events. Our world is not black and white and there are times in life when people need a “bridge” to get them through difficult situations. Resources must be used to help this population step up and out of the temporally homelessness. Also, I support more resources being put towards mental health and substance abuse treatment.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]No, as I do not believe that their are many homeless men who desire housing.[/read]
Shayna Lathus:[read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I believe we must address our homeless situation, and support a city sponsored homeless shelter. It is imperative that we work with the surrounding municipalities, as well as the County, and lead by example to create long-term solutions for this ongoing issue. My goal would be for this shelter to offer wraparound services that include mental health services, rehabilitation services, job training, and more, to help this population move towards a more permanent solution for themselves.[/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Yes. I have created housing for homeless in our city.[/read]
5) Per the city website the last Infrastructure Report was completed in 2000. How will you make infrastructure planning a priority?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]The city actually does do infrastructure reports on a regular basis and the Public Works Commission meets once a month to review projects in development and approve new projects. I’ve served on the Public Works Commission for the past 5-years and all of the meetings and reports are online. I would support making the Public Works reports more accessible and easier to find so the community is aware of what is going on in the city regarding infrastructure.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]We have 15% of our budget going directly to infrastructure projects. Public Works has created a Water master plan to address aging waterlines. Recently we passed an increase in water rates to deal directly with our aging water wells aging from 40-60 years. For paving, replacing streets or slurry the city is set up into 12 districts. Public works focus on one district per year this coming year will be district 7. The tree maintenance is also in districts done every two years, which, also includes cutters, curbs sidewalks. The only way we are going to do more is to create more revenue. Continue to use cost effective ways such as prioritizing needs flood channels Clearly our parks have been long overdue for updating and maintenance. I believe one way to help our parks would be to create a local foundation so we can have residents, local corporations, businesses and non-profits participation.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I support that Huntington Beach needs to do more to modernize our traffic light system to recognize and adapt to current flows of traffic. I also support lighted crosswalks to be installed in crosswalks that have heavy pedestrian traffic, such as the ones on Main and PCH, as well as at some high traffic school crossings. I would support the city also complete a new Infrastructure report that focuses more on innovative ways to manage its traffic as well as provide free access to wifi in our community.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]One of my Proposals is to create a Huntington Beach Cultural and Community Center. I believe in increasing the City’s Infrastructure to increase services to residents.[/read]
Dan Kalmick: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]The City Charter requires that 15% of the City’s budget be spent of Infrastructure. I have a proposed plan to augment our infrastructure dollars with dark fiber optic resources that will be used for traffic synchronization and optimization. Making sure that the City plans accordingly for underground wet and dry utility maintenance is paramount to having a functioning City. Deferred maintenance is not an option.[/read]
Shayna Lathus: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Huntington Beach and surrounding cities have grown significantly since 2000, and we cannot adequately plan for the future if we’re relying on outdated information. I will make infrastructure a priority if elected, and will use that information to build a city that’s commuter and pedestrian-friendly.[/read]
6) Going beyond the Poseidon controversy, how can the city work with OCWD and what can the city do towards comprehensive management of our water resources?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]The city needs to do a better job of encouraging water conservation. Residents in HB have actually done an amazing job of curtailing water consumption. Over the past few years, residents have consumed less water year over year and the city has reaped the benefits of hitting the county’s water reduction goals. The city has also done a good job of using newer technology to water lawns, incorporating bioswales and using drought-tolerant plants into landscaping.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Orange County Water District manages our groundwater/our aquifer not only assist us in having clean, reliable water in addition protecting our water system from seawater intrusion. ON a daily basis they manage the delicate balance that is required to keep seawater at bay. Taking care of the wells. They diversifies our water working in conjunction with Orange County Sanitation who currently recycles over 100,000 gallons per day and soon to be increasing to 130,000 when the new facility is completed. Once OCSD recycles the water OCWD purifies it some more and helps its reuse into our water basin. Our city and OCWD work closely together on some days its best we don’t pump and import more water and prevents water intrusion. Lastly, our city staff meets with OCWD monthly at a producers meeting with many other cities to discuss any issues or needs to taking care of the basin.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Since 1962 Huntington Beach has managed its own sources of water up until recently. Water security for Huntington Beach as well as Orange County will depend on a portfolio of approaches that includes; reclaiming wastewater, capturing storm water, and continuing to emphasize conservation. But under certain conditions, it makes sense for desalination to be part of that portfolio. I disagree with our water being controlled by a corporation and considerations should be made for Orange County to slowly purchase control of the facility.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]This question is largely dependent on weather the Santa Ana Regional Water Quality Control Board and the California Costal Commission approve permits for the posideon desalination project. Regardless of the future progress of the desalination plant, I do support working in other ways to increase our water supply.[/read]
Dan Kalmick:[read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Our City should be supporting the Ground Water Replenishment System where we can. Additionally, we need to begin working on a plan to divert the other 50% of our storm drains to OC Sanitation District for water recycling. Since OCWDs mission to manage our groundwater basin, HB should work with inland pumpers to create new sources of brackish water clean up as well as conservation projects and to augment our local surface water storage option.[/read]
Shayna Lathus: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Water, the recent droughts, and our preparedness for future droughts is the top environmental issue for Californians in recent polling. While we are no longer in a drought, we must prepare, and that means utilizing water in a smart efficient way with the thought that we will experience another drought. The city should remain operating within its water goals during the drought. We must also encourage residents to use more native, water-efficient plants for their yards, water their lawns in off-peak hours, encourage grey water usage, and more. Huntington Beach should also use more of what’s known as “smart water meters”. In multi-unit buildings, usually there’s one meter that accounts for the whole building. Case studies have shown that when we can more accurately track water usage and can attribute water usage to specific units, residents are more accurately charged for their usage and thus, are encouraged to use less water. This would be a great tool for Huntington Beach to optimize.[/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Conservation. Capture rainfall.[/read]
7) Sea level rise is threatening our coast. What steps can the city take to forestall this problem?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]We need to improve our storm drains and water pumps (which are currently underfunded) and convince our city council that climate change is real and we should be addressing this issue head on. The city recently formed a Harbor Commission and I’m sure sea level will be a topic residents in the Huntington Harbor will have this as part of their agenda.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I am in favor of this program I believe it has the potential to bring local control, freedom of choice and competition into the electricity marketplace. Again why wouldn’t you want local control instead of being told by the PUC what to do? In addition, it could bring revenue to our city and save our citizens money. As Mayor in 2017 I authorized our city to be part of a study to see how this could benefit our community. It has not be completed as of yet. Good news since then many of our surrounding cities are considering the program as well. It would help us to maybe partner in this endeavor.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]The sea level rise is a result of more carbon in the atmosphere and a gradual warming of the planet that is melting the polar ice caps and causing the sea level to rise. Huntington Beach can take steps to reduce the green house effect by; providing more accessible electric vehicle charging stations, mandate that all Electric vehicles have a uniform charging platform, band the use and sale of styrofoam, allow only clean wood to be used in the fire rings, encourage and support the development of genetically engineered plants that consume harmful CO2 gasses.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Climate Change, but not much can be done. to stop it. We will simply have to allow nature to run it’s course.[/read]
Dan Kalmick: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I’ve been asked by Staff to speak at the California Adaptation Forum and was subsequently asked to speak at the National Adaptation Forum as a panelist on mainstreaming policies of Coastal Resiliency into General Plan documents of City. Unfortunately, our current council pulled our Climate Action Plan for the General Plan update’s scope, but through the EIR and other creative techniques I was able to get much of the policy that would’ve been in that document into the EIR. Our Local Coastal Program Amendment to the Coastal Commission will require a Coastal Resiliency Plan, which I hope to work on. The CCC will not allow shielding or sea walls to be built so our future planning and land use must include the potential for real and incremental sea level rise. Sunset Beach will be most impacted along with parts of Southeast HB. The main issue I see with Sunset Beach is each individual resident owns their seawall or bulkhead which does not necessarily allow for distribution of the cost to raise those seawalls as the mean ocean level rises. The City must create policies that are equitable to prepare for water topping and regular flooding of our low-lying areas.[/read]
Shayna Lathus: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]This is a serious issue, as much of California’s population resides on the coast. We can look to areas that flood somewhat frequently to see what they’ve done to mitigate future floods or storms. One thing the city should do in conjunction with the county is conduct a regular environmental review of infrastructure preparedness every few years. Buildings must meet increasing standards of durability to withstand potential flooding. We also must look at and keep our flood maps current. When building, we should look to build more inland and rethink our zoning. This is not a problem unique to Huntington Beach, but we must start addressing this issue sooner, rather than later.[/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Take action to reduce the threat.[/read]
8) Do you support adopting the Community Choice Energy Program? Why or why not?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Yes. I support CCE programs. It has worked successfully in other cities and has provided consumers with a choice and lower utility bills.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I am in favor of this program I believe it has the potential to bring local control, freedom of choice and competition into the electricity marketplace. Again why wouldn’t you want local control instead of being told by the PUC what to do? In addition, it could bring revenue to our city and save our citizens money. As Mayor in 2017 I authorized our city to be part of a study to see how this could benefit our community. It has not be completed as of yet. Good news since then many of our surrounding cities are considering the program as well. It would help us to maybe partner in this endeavor.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Yes, I do support a community choice program as long as it creates competition and lowers the prices for consumers as well as provides more options for clean energy.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I was under the impression this program was already adopted by the Huntington Beach City Council.[/read]
Dan Kalmick: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Yes, but only if feasible. The City along with its neighboring Cities need to study the feasibility of CCE/CCA. If it shows that the program can save residents and businesses money while at the same time giving us a clean mix of power then the City should take the lead and move forward with creating a JPA.[/read]
Shayna Lathus: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I do support Community Choice Energy because I believe that it offers cheaper alternatives to energy for residents.[/read]
9) What is your plan for abatement of traffic congestion?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]We have “smart” technology in place for stoplights on major streets in HB but we could expand the program to more areas. Also, we need to make traffic a top consideration when approving new developments. Some of the worst traffic in HB is around areas where high-density developments were approved. I would support better mass transportation (rapid buses and explore light rail options) and I would also be in favor of land acquisition for better traffic flow (similar to what was done recently on Edinger near Bella Terra and Atlanta near Pacific City).[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I currently serve on the board of the Orange County Transit Authority. One of the advantages for our community is that I am aware of call for projects when grant money becomes available. Synchronicity of our street lights throughout the city. We have a pilot program coming soon for OC Flex…what is it, is an on-demand shared ride service, will be part of OCTA’s suite of alternative transportation services with short wait times and curb to curb pickup and drop off. Successful public transportation in the future will result from targeted solutions for the individual needs of the 3.1 million people in OC. Summer trollies and finding the route where people want to go.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]As I stated in the previous question, I would support a complete new approach to a smart, innovative, immediately adaptive, self controlled traffic management system. A system that relies on radar to monitor the amount, flow, direction of traffic and is able to make immediate adaptive changes to alleviate congestion.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I would like to work with the Orange County transportation Authority to develop a rapid transit system for Orange County. We are the 6th largest county in the nation and the largest county in the nation without a rapid transit system. That needs to change.[/read]
Dan Kalmick:[read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Intelligent Traffic Management (ITMs) Systems are the only way the City is going to be able to address traffic is a meaningful wall.This means a Smart City with fiber optic cabling in the ground and sidewalks to connect all of our traffic lights back to a central location with a Smart/AI system to learn traffic patterns and optimize traffic lights. Adding in Vehicle to Infrastructure (V2I) and Vehicle to Vehicle (V2V) technologies which are in current model year cars, the traffic signals are capable of talking to automobiles and giving them the information, such as correct speed, in order to hit every green light. Additional road improvements and completion of the Master Plan of Arterial Highways is also recommended. And finally, providing alternative means of transit including creating safe ways for residents to bike and walk around our City can help lower VMT.[/read]
Shayna Lathus: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I want to see increased synchronicity of our streetlights to decrease drive time. We also need to look at making Huntington Beach more biker- and pedestrian-friendly, and explore increased public transportation.[/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]No transit oriented development.[/read]
10) What is your plan for abating airport noise?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I live in a zone where the jets fly right over my home on an hourly basis. I completely understand the concerns of our residents and sympathize with them. This is not going to be an easy issue to solve but fortunately, we have already taken steps to start the process. I believe we should continue our conversations with Long Beach Airport, Jet Blue, the FAA and if needed, take legal action. While the FAA may claim that the new flight patterns do not adversely affect the level of noise in our area it’s clear they are in violation of what they promised. We to be vigilant and not let them continue to abuse Huntington Beach residents. We’ve seen how Newport Beach can be effective with dealing with John Wayne Airport. We can be just as effective is we remain persistent.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Along with City Councilmember Patrick Brenden and with the approval of our city council created a commission to study the serious issues of airplane noise, planes flying very low using new routes to Long Beach, Los Angles and John Wayne Airport. Fortunately, we have had many committed residents collect data, do research and collect public input. It’s truly been a collaborative effort. We will continue to work with Long Beach airport we have just had our fifth meeting with them. While many have called for us to hire an attorney and just sue the FAA we have really made progress with the collaboration process. We are hoping at least at this stage to have the plane fly higher and fan out more. If we sue will not have the access that we currently have to airport officials or the FAA.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I live below the path of the Long Beach incoming flight pattern. Other than cutting the amount of flights and the times airports are allowed to have take off and landings, I believe it is going to take aviation engineers to improve turbine engine technology to cut noise and improve fuel efficiency.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]This is a matter for the Orange County Board of Supervisors, which manages John Wayne Airport[/read]
Dan Kalmick:[read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Airplane traffic is handled by the FAA. I will work with our new Congress Member and to make changes to the FAA reauthorization bill to address the low flight patterns over HB. Suing the FAA or the airlines stops all ability for them to continue talks to come to a consensus and spread the airplane traffic out over a larger swath of the City so that planes are constantly flying over a single portion.[/read]
Shayna Lathus:[read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]This is an issue that currently is being addressed. On the council, I will work with our county, state, and federal leadership to come up with alternatives to flight schedules, paths, etc. to make sure we are not disturbing city residents.[/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I have supported the City Ad Hoc Committee.[/read]
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]The city should be doing everything it can to protect our wetlands. We are blessed to have a national treasure in our backyard and we should strongly push back anything that would cause us to lose this precious resource.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]The State Land Commission owns the Bolsa Chica wetlands and they are maintained by County of Orange. We are fortunate that we have three community-based organizations who are dedicated to the restoration and maintenance wetlands. The city has been very supportive of their efforts. It truly is an enhancement to our city.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I believe and support that Huntington Beach needs to play a larger roll in the protection our wet lands. First and for most, the remaining wetlands in Huntington Beach must be preserved and protected. One of my projects if elected is to ban all use of styrofoam because it is light weight and easily breaks down into smaller particles that marine and birds life consume as it blows into our wetlands. The city can also host monthly wetland clean ups and habitat restoration.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I support retaining all of our parks as public Land,. I also support preservation of the Bolsa Chica Wetlands.[/read]
Dan Kalmick: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]HB has two large Wetlands: The Huntington Wetlands off of Magnolia which are in the City and The Bolsa Chica Wetlands which are in the unincorporated County area off of Warner and PCH. I support annexation of the Bolsa Chica Wetland into the City to maintain more local control over them. The owner will remain as the State Lands Commission and California Department of Fish and Wildlife would still manage the reserve, but it would allow us more local control over restoration projects near Seapoint. In the past the City played a huge roll in the development of the Wetland, but today it plays little roll over the Wetlands in the City as most of the development has been stopped and the properties have been saved or built on. As the Treasurer and past Vice President of the Bolsa Chica Land Trust, I worked as a negotiator to settle our lawsuit with the owners of the Ridge and Goodell site and to steward almost a $1,000,000 in donations to start acquisition of the last 11 acres of open space at Bolsa Chica.[/read]
Shayna Lathus: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I think the city should play a greater role in conserving our wetlands. The wetlands are part of our natural ecosystem and must be preserved and protected.[/read]
Billy O’Connell:[read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]We should play a more active role.[/read]
12) What other ideas do you have for making Huntington Beach the greenest city in the county?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]There are many things we could do to make HB greener but here are just a few suggestions: We need to encourage and offer incentives for people who either remodel or complete new construction to use LEED standards. We should also improve our bike lanes and complete the bike master plan. We should improve our public transportation and offer routes to Metrolink or consider light rail for the city. Finally, we should encourage restaurants to use biodegradable packaging and utensils for to-go meals.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I am proud to say I was part of the original Sustainability program started with the HB Chamber of Commerce and City of Huntington Beach doing a pilot program to assist business owners and homeowners ways to improve their energy efficient through updating their windows, water usage, insulation, turf removal, tank-less water heaters and solar power. The city now has a thriving business program.
We purchased 11,000 SC Edison poles which will allow us to install LED lighting that are longer lasting, use less energy and more costs effective. We are constantly on the lookout for grants or experimental programs that help us do it better. We will be putting more solar panels on city owned facilities, making investments into smart city applications using our streetlights (e.g. noise monitors, controlled lighting, etc.)
As mentioned earlier completing the study on CCA, expanding the Recycling Market Development Zone (RMDZ) to encourage more businesses to utilize recycled content in their manufacturing process, and certifying more businesses through our sustainable cert program with the hopes to promote and achieve a healthier and cleaner environment by helping businesses integrate environmental responsibility into their operations in a manner that is sustainable as well as profitable.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I think Huntington Beach has been making bold steps on becoming a greener city with its implantation of solar panels and electric car charging stations. I would support more use of these resources as well as implementing a smart traffic management system that keeps cars idling less and traffic light can cut the amount of CO2.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I believe Huntington Beach should be an environmentally friendly city, but not at the cost of services to residents.[/read]
Dan Kalmick: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I support CCE, expanding alternative fueling opportunities city wide. I want HB to be at the forefront of autonomous vehicle testing; traffic throughput improvement helps lower car idle times and CAVs are mostly electric vehicles. I support creating open space where we can and incentivizing solar panels on new buildings. Republic has been a partner in waste division and I want to continue working with them on e-waste disposal and other forms of landfill divisions. I want to increase the visibility of our RMDZ and bring companies that promote green and sustainable living to HB.[/read]
Shayna Lathus: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Reducing plastic use is one idea, particularly at restaurants or supermarkets with throwaway utensils. We can increase the number of recycling stations and institute compost stations within the city and at the beach. We can also convert our public transportation fleet to bio fuel, natural gas, etc. Making Huntington Beach more walkable will also help reduce the cars on the road. In Southern California, we are fortunate to have sunshine nearly year-round, so we should be capitalizing on solar panels. We must also encourage residents to use more native, water-efficient plants for their yards, water their lawns in off-peak hours, encourage grey water usage, and more.[/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]American made solar panel and tax incentives to purchase them.[/read]
13) Do you support having cannabis dispensaries in the city? Why or why not?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I support cannabis dispensaries in HB and would support opening up these stores in our light industrial ares. We are missing out on a new line of revenue that could be used to fund our police/fire departments, pay down our pension liabilities and improve our infrastructure.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I am not so sure our residents are ready for the consequences while I know that the use of marijuana is not popular with our HB Police Chief, Orange County Sheriff and law enforcement in general. Not having a local bank that can handle such large cash deposits is causing serious issues in this state. Los Angeles county and Riverside county are have extended a ban on any cannabis services. With the serious issues coming from the passage of not very well thought out Prop 47 & 57 and the opioid epidemic I can’t see this happening anytime soon in Huntington Beach.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I do support cannabis dispensaries, but in a limited and regulated numbers that only serve the residents of Huntington Beach. Our residents are currently going to other cities for this service and we are missing out on the opportunity to create jobs as well reaping the taxable income revenue for Huntington Beach. I believe it would dramatically reduce the amount of illicit sales thus lowering the rate of crime..[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I do not support “cannabis” dispensaries in Huntington Beach. In fact, I would support becoming a “low town” or a city that criminalizes marijuana..[/read]
Dan Kalmick: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Yes. Our pension liability is the overarching discussion to be had in HB; it colors all conversations about City spending. I support starting with Cannabis distribution on a sunsetting pilot project to see if we can attain competency in that. Then quickly move onto a small retail pilot program, again with a sunset clause. The tax generated from cannabis sales will be crucial to meeting our pension liability payments in the future..[/read]
Shayna Lathus: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I am supportive of having dispensaries within our borders. The state has made recreational marijuana usage legal for adults, and Huntington Beach is missing the tax revenue from this. With a budget shortfall in the next couple years, Huntington Beach should seriously consider this opportunity. Not only that, many of our residents use medical cannabis products for various ailments and have stated that they would prefer not to have to go to outside of Huntington Beach to make their purchases..[/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Not right now..[/read]
14) Do you support SB 54? Why or why not?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Yes, I support SB 54. The bill not only keeps immigrant communities safe but all of us safe. Our immigrant community is under attack and they are unfairly being targeted by the Trump administration. I support the state’s decision to implement SB 54 and I was opposed to our city’s lawsuit against it. SB 54 does not imped law enforcement’s ability to do their job as some critics would claim. We need to address the real issue at hand…our immigration system is broken and it needs to be fixed.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]No, SB54 restricts our police department from enforcing our local laws. It is an attempt by Sacramento to impose state control on our local laws infringing on our local authority. Our local police department and state do not enforce immigration laws. It is federal government who enforces immigration regulations.[/read]
Darren Ellis:[read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I do support SB 54. I believe that it keeps residents that are not citizens from having to hide in the shadows. Without sanctuary protections residents would be fearful of reporting a crime even if they are a victim of one. Also, it would embolden criminals to victimize this group of residents because of their fear of being reported and deported.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I do not support the state not complying with federal law on immigration. I also support those who are convicted of any crime being deported.[/read]
Dan Kalmick:[read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I support SB54. And I do not support the City suing the State. Our police officers need the confidence of our communities that they’re not going to be turning people in for civil wrongs while they’re reporting a crime. Being in this country without property documentation is not a crime, it’s a civil wrong. Our police officers do not enforce civil actions. SB54 does not stop our police officers from arresting “bad guys” or doing their job, it helps protect those members of the community who may be here without proper documentation and allows them to report crime without fear of deportation.[/read]
Shayna Lathus: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I do support SB 54. Currently, Huntington Beach has sued the state over its sanctuary city law. I believe that it is not the role of municipalities to counteract the will of the state when it comes to matters that are of the state’s concern, even as a chartered city. I do not believe cities should aid or enforce current federal policy by leapfrogging state law.[/read]
15) What plans do you have to manage pension liabilities?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]We need to set our priorities and manage our budget efficiently and responsibly. I would restore the $1 million dollars the city was paying a year to the pension fund in order to save $5 million in the future. This line item was removed for 2018 and I would strongly recommend reinstating this and to help pay down the debt that we owe.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]The city “25 to 10” Plan was implemented in FY 2013/14 to payoff the unfunded liability for the Retiree Medical Plan in 10 years & saving taxpayers over $7 mil. The unfunded liability for Retiree Medical benefits (OPEB) for Miscellaneous employees has been completely paid off as of last year. The “16 to 10” plan was implemented I FY 2013/14 to payoff the unfunded liability for the Supplemental Retirement Plan in 10 years savings taxpayers $9 million The “One Equals Five” plan added in FY 2014/2015 contributes $1 million extra per year to reduce unfunded liabilities, potentially saving taxpayers $54 million. In FY 2015/16 the City created a new Section115 Trust with a $2.5 million contribution.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]From what I am aware the stock market based pension plans are not keeping up with liability and retirement payouts to pensioners. This is a very hot button issue and I am concerned for those public workers are going to have to rely on their pension once retired. Just as many of us who will not receive pensions when we retire try to personally save money for when that time comes, I believe they are going to have to make a larger contribution towards their pension plans when it is not performing and falling short.[/read]
Dan Kalmick: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]PEPRA took care of most of the pension liability for new employees. Now it comes down to finding the funding for the next 10 years until we hit the peak of payment growth. The City needs approximately $60million more, over the next 10 years to meet its obligation. We can’t cut our way out of this since even with zero staff, we would still have this pension liability. I support, legalization the sale and distribution of cannabis (as do a majority of HB residents), Home Share ONLY Short Term Vacation rentals, leasing dark fiber resources, leasing light pole resources for Small Cell Wireless attachments, potentially increasing the TOT on hotels and STVRs and then only then would I consider a sales tax increase.[/read]
Shayna Lathus: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]As a union member, this issue is near and dear to my heart. We must keep the promises we’ve made to public service workers who typically take a salary lower than market rate for their service with the promise of a pension and the ability to retire with dignity. This affects real families. That said, there are abuses, and I do not believe things like pension-spiking or double-dipping should be legal. In Los Angeles, the new police chief got a $1.27 million payout of his pension before becoming chief, because in his new role he wouldn’t receive a pension. This is in addition to his $300,000+ salary. While this is an extreme case, there are abuses and loopholes that must be closed.[/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Already doing it. Paying more and saving the taxpayers millions.[/read]
16) What are your top budget priorities and why?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]1) Keep our community safe and fund our police and fire departments 2) Repair and maintain our aging infrastructure 3) Budget for the city’s pension liabilities [/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Maintaining our Public Safety, Police, Fire and Marine so our residents can feel safe in their community. Create a funding source for our 77 parks and a Central Park Foundation so we can bring it back to its crown jewel status. Create new ways to generate funding sources to Huntington Beach Having a balanced budget, finding more cost effective ways to attract new businesses to our city. [/read]
Darren Ellis:[read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I believe the 24 million dollar short fall and peace officer pension needs to be addressed. The residents should not have to pick up the price tag and suffer lost resources that could have been invested to improve the quality of life for all . The police union needs to take more accountability of how these funds and invested and distributed. [/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I support adjusting the budget to support increases in Policemen and Firemen, as well an increased staff for the Mayor. [/read]
Dan Kalmick: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Pension Liability – We must “solve” this issue and complete the spreadsheet with a solid plan of funding so that we can move past the discussion and move forward with the City. Public Safety – We need more police officers patrolling our streets to deal with the increases in petty crime that have direct effects on quality of life Infrastructure – We need paved streets for commerce and resident quality of life. Homelessness – Maybe not with our money, but with County and State grants, we need to find a way to support our homeless population and help get them back to being taxpayers in our community. But we must work with our regional partners so that HB doesn’t “fix” homelessness and then everyone just ships their populations to HB. Parks and Beaches – Our parks and beaches are what make HB, HB. We need to find resources in our community to be stewards and advocates for our parks in order to address their needs going forward. I support a City-wide parks conservancy and potentially a parks bond like we passed 40 years ago that give us all of our great parks. [/read]
Shayna Lathus: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I believe we must make sure our police and fire departments are appropriately staffed and funded to keep us safe. I also will push to expedite Huntington Beach’s move to a toxin-free city and maintain our public parks. One of my top priorities is also finding additional revenue streams for the city. [/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Public Safety, Safety of of our residents. Quality of life issues. [/read]
17) The recent Janus decision may affect the city’s agency shop agreement with the Huntington Beach Municipal Employees’ Association. What are your plans for this eventuality?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]The Janus decision was yet another attempt to bust the unions. I support our union workers and their ability to collect fees from their members in order to support the union causes. Because the courts have ruled union fees are not mandatory, union leaders should encourage their members to contribute voluntarily and actively work to educate their members of the benefits of union membership.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]The City of Huntington Beach responded as soon as the decision was handed down the only union in Huntington Beach that was impacted was MEA Municipal Employees Association. Human Resources offered the employees their options.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I believe people have the right to unionize and I support the city of Huntington Beach working their Municipal Employees’ Association even if the supreme court votes against the unions.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I respect the Supreme Court in Janus V. American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.[/read]
Dan Kalmick: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Having been endorsed by the HB MEA and having had long conservations with their members on this issue, it hasn’t had an effect on them yet. The MEA is a strong organization and their members understand that they need to pay their dues in order for the solidarity of the union to stand. I support our working men and women who work for the City and will support them as a Councilmember.[/read]
Shayna Lathus: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]Public unions have been hit hard by the recent Janus decision. While I think it will hurt their coffers, I believe that unions still have much to offer employees, and at the state level the Governor’s office is already positioning the state budget to mitigate the loss of members and funds from public unions. On the council I will continue to support our working families, and I believe that the city should do what it can to keep our services managed by our own Huntington Beach employees, as well as mitigate the effects of the Janus decision on worker benefits and compensation.[/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I believe everyone should pay for services they receive. No freeloaders.[/read]
18) How do you plan to stay in touch with your constituents?
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I plan on doing a monthly newsletter and having “Coffee with a Council Member” on a quarterly basis. I also believe in having an open door policy with my constituents and being available on a regular basis for meetings. My goal is to be a voice for the people of Huntington Beach. I know first-hand how frustrating it is to deal with the city and my hope is to act as a liaison between the community and city hall. It’s imperative to have city council members who are representing the community and the residents’ best interests. I understand that need and will do my best to be that voice for the community.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I do now and will continue to. I use telephone surveys, I attend all meetings required by city council members, I send out newsletters, emails, attend numerous city events and many of the celebrations, ribbon cuttings, Eagle Scout and Gold & Silver awards[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I have dedicated a majority of my time and efforts on being part of and availability for the constituents to contact me personally in my office, via telephone, email, or social media such as Facebook, and Instagram. Also I would have a booth downtown on Tuesday nights Farmers market for “Ask Your Council Member”[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I will be more active then other Councilmen currently are with community engagement. I intend to focus on community involvement. I may hold town halls at times on issues and also will seek the advice of involved citizens on various issues.[/read]
Dan Kalmick: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I have an 8 point plan for transparency including such things as creating community ombudspeople to help get information to residents so they can make good decisions and from residents, so that I can get direct input from them on decisions before the Council. Everyone has my cell phone number; my Google voice number finds me wherever I am in the City. I monitor social media regularly though don’t always participate. I believe technology can help keep me in touch with what’s going on, on the ground. And finally, since I’m self employed I have the time and resources to attend many community meetings (as I have been for the last decade) to know how residents feel about issues.[/read]
Shayna Lathus:[read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I believe in an open-door policy. I am always out in the community answering questions or meeting with residents for coffee to hear their thoughts or where they think the city should be headed, and I plan to continue this.[/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I am always available.[/read]
19) Please comment on other issues that are important to you.
Kim Carr: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I believe we need to have an inclusive city council that truly represents our community and listens to the needs of the residents. We need to find long-term solutions for the homeless in our community. We need to help our first responders and keep our community safe. We need to restore our parks and playgrounds.[/read]
Barbara Delgleize: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I have been honored to serve on the Huntington Beach City Council for the last four years. I will be eternally grateful to have had the opportunity to represent the city as Mayor in 2017. It been very rewarding to be part of many solutions making our city a better place to live.[/read]
Darren Ellis: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I am concerned that although our public safety personal do a great job, there is a disconnect between the department and its citizens. I would like to see an overnight parking program that allows those in and around the downtown area, who have consumed alcohol, and feel they are over the legal limit , the opportunity to get an overnight parking pass from the sub-station or walking patrolman. I would like to see HBPD train officers on how to recognizing and de-escalate interactions with people who have mental heath issues when they become agitated, as well as have a team of highly trained emergency mental heath officers responsd in these interactions.[/read]
Amory Hanson: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I support maintaining the Michael E. Rodgers Seniors’ Center as Public Land[/read]
Dan Kalmick: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]I don’t support an outright ban of single use plastics – we tried this before and lost our progressive councilmembers. Eliminating single use plastic from the waste stream is of great importance to me. I sit on the board of Algalita Marine Research and Education – whose mission it is to eliminate single use plastics. I think the City can create incentive programs to help persuade businesses not to use single – use plastics, similar to how McDonald’s is eliminating plastic straws based on public demand. I believe that the State will fix this issue for us allowing us to focus on issues that we can control and have a greater impact on resident’s quality of life.
I support gun control, but an outright ban on sales within the City would create a divisiveness that again would limit the ability to improve so many other things. I also don’t support districts in our City. This would allow the Republican Party to dump $100,000 into each district and drown out the voice of the minority. Allowing people run at large has given us a council with 3 women. Our minority communities would no benefit from districts since the districts would further dilute their influence.
Making development look like what residents want, is first and foremost to our campaign. Residents do not like the development in the City. I have the land use background and support of staff to begin making those changes to eliminate the types of development that residents don’t want, but still allow for the redevelopment of failing shopping centers and rundown stripe mails; HB needs a permanent concert venue as well as more diverse restaurants. Uses that residents want are of the utmost importance to me.
I will hold town hall meetings and conduct public advisory votes to better understand what residents want to see their City look like. But, we must conform to both Federal and State laws. I plan to hold land use education workshops to help residents understand what all of their options are for development, not just want a consultant says. I want to work bottom up not top down.[/read]
Billy O’Connell: [read more=”Read More” less=”Read Less”]We should leave this city better than we found it.[/read]
June Recap & July Happenings
Were you there?
Our screening of the documentary The Anthropologist, drew about 50 enthusiastic supporters to our HB Huddle on Saturday, June 30 at Carden Conservatory Elementary School.
It was a great feast of potluck delicacies and engaging conversations with kindred spirits. HB Huddle local elections team leader, Brendon Perkins, challenged us to step out of our comfort zone explaining that to win this next election – that’s what we all need to consider.
“What makes you feel just a little uncomfortable?”
In his case he shared his journey overcoming a fear of public speaking in order to run for office.
Josh Lowenthal, a candidate for the 72nd State Assembly District, reminded us that when we speak from our hearts and from the values we hold as humans, we don’t create more divides, we might actually build alliances.
Candidates Tom Umberg, Cottie Petrie-Norris and Duke Nguyen were also present, thanked supporters, and shared their excitement around not only moving OC slowly from red to blue, but also doing so because of basic shared human values.
The movie served to remind us that when we seek to understand other cultures and other perspectives, we learn.
We can all be anthropologists in our own backyards, observing and trying to understand one another instead of judging. Only then can we find where we all share common ground and start a new, fresh and peaceful conversation.
Thank you to all who attended!
July Happenings…
The HB Huddle is going dark in July, which means will not be meeting at Carden on the third Saturday of the month, but this doesn’t mean that we’ll stop taking action!
On Wednesday July 18, 2018, several HB Huddle environment team and steering team members will be speaking out at the Orange County Water District meeting. The agency will consider approving the term sheet for the Poseidon desalination project and several members will voice their concerns.
Here is a quick video from California Desalination Facts, which details some of the concerns:
Even if you can’t make the meeting it is still important to speak out. Please email oceandesalexploration@ocwd.com and voice your concerns before the meeting.
You can also use this form from OCWD to state your opposition.
April City Council Meeting Recap
City Council meeting videos are part of the public domain. Here is a clip of four community members speaking out. You can also watch the full video on the City of Huntington Beach website (if you have trouble viewing the video on the city website try using Chrome as your browser). Council Members responses take place around 4 hours and 25 minutes into the video.
“I’ve been coming to these meeting throughout my life, and I am repeatedly told that we have limited resources and limited funds…I’m appalled, as a tax payer, that you want to take my tax dollars to litigate something that is already being litigated at a much higher level.”
-Cathey R., HB resident since 1985
“I understand the concerns of some members of the community about the impact SB 54 may have on crime and legality of the of the law. However, repeated academic studies have shown that having immigrants – both documented and undocumented – actually DECREASES crime in a community. I work as a data analyst and have a Masters from Oxford University with an emphasis in statistics, so I know data. Recent academic studies have shown that being a sanctuary county has positive impacts on communities. In addition to increased economic benefits, there are, on average, 35.5 fewer crimes committed per 10,000 people in sanctuary counties compared to nonsanctuary counties. This is largely due to the fact that there is increased trust between immigrants and law enforcement, so they are more likely to report crime and cooperate in investigations.”
-Aubrey R., HB Huddle #NoBanNoWall Team (here’s a link to her sources)
“I think there are more of us who are compassionate, who think and who will vote, then there are the hateful ones….be weary of how you vote tonight because your political futures definitely depend on it.”
-Bill M., Orange County resident
“Our country is so tribal right now, you can feel it in the room, there’s so much fear and there’s so much divisiveness and it’s sad to see city officials wanting to stir that up in their hometown… I hope we can get away from that in the future…”
-Cynthia R., 3rd generation Huntington Beach resident
Climate Cheat Sheet
Here is the Climate Cheat Sheet that Dr. Treseder handed out at our May Meeting…
Here’s the PDF: Climate_change_CA48_v4_full
More about our speaker:
Dr. Kathleen K. Treseder studies ecosystems that are endangered by climate change, including Alaskan forests, Costa Rican cloud forests, and Californian shrublands. She is a Professor and Vice Chair in the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of California Irvine. She received her PhD from Stanford University and was recently elected a Fellow of the Ecological Society of America. She has authored 91 peer-reviewed articles in scientific journals. Her research has been covered by the New York Times, NPR, and Discover Magazine.