As the Costa Mesa mayoral election approaches, incumbent Mayor John Stephens is vying for reelection against challenger James Peters. The candidates share common ground on some issues, such as prioritising public safety and preserving residential neighbourhoods amidst housing development. However, they present starkly different views on the city’s budget and financial health.
Diverging Views on Costa Mesa’s Budget
Both candidates agree that public safety should be the city’s top priority, but they diverge on the state of the city’s budget.
- John Stephens claims that Costa Mesa has consistently maintained a balanced budget and that the city’s reserves exceed legal requirements.
- In contrast, James Peters argues that the city’s budget has ballooned in recent years, necessitating cuts to ensure financial stability.
Budget Growth vs. Fiscal Responsibility
Peters, a licensed financial planner, expressed deep concern over what he sees as excessive budget growth:
“In the past three years, our operating budget has grown by 22% and added 66 positions. We need to trim the budget and prioritise our spending,” he stated.
Peters believes in a proactive approach to budget management, advocating for a clear focus on balancing the budget and determining which priorities should receive funding.
Stephens, on the other hand, highlights his record of fiscal responsibility over his three years as mayor and his previous tenure on the city council:
“We have managed to fund essential public safety initiatives while keeping a balanced budget and maintaining reserves at $59 million,” he asserted.
Public Safety Initiatives
Both candidates recognise the rising crime rates in Costa Mesa as a pressing concern.
- Peters calls for enhanced resources for the police department, emphasising the need for more personnel and community policing strategies.
- Stephens points to his administration’s accomplishments, including hiring more police officers and implementing advanced technologies like Flock license plate cameras to improve public safety.
Addressing Crime Rates
Peters specifically noted an uptick in serious crimes like murder and arson:
“The biggest need facing Costa Mesa is public safety. We need to provide our police with the resources they need to prevent these crimes and catch those responsible,” he said.
Meanwhile, Stephens mentioned his administration’s efforts to enhance the police and fire departments, aiming to maintain a safe environment for residents.
Housing Development: A Shared Concern
While both candidates agree on the importance of preserving existing residential neighbourhoods, they propose different approaches to housing development.
- Stephens argues that increasing housing supply is crucial for the city’s growth, especially given the current low vacancy rate of 2%.
- Peters stresses the need for sustainable development practices to protect community character, advocating for mixed-use projects that can meet housing demands without compromising existing neighbourhoods.
Balancing Development and Community Needs
Stephens believes that responsible development can benefit Costa Mesa:
“We must develop housing opportunity sites near jobs and transportation hubs while preserving our neighbourhoods,” he said.
He pointed to planned projects like the Fairview Development Center and One Metro West as examples of how the city can expand its housing options while maintaining its character.
In contrast, Peters prioritises workforce housing, veterans housing, and senior housing to address community needs:
“I understand the challenges of the cost of living and want to ensure our development meets the needs of all residents,” he stated.
The Importance of Leadership
The upcoming election is not just about budgets and public safety; it’s also about leadership. Both candidates have articulated their visions for how they would lead Costa Mesa.
- Stephens has a long history in local government and has implemented various initiatives aimed at improving city services and public safety.
- Peters, as a newcomer, positions himself as a consensus builder who aims to listen to all stakeholders, including residents, businesses, and city staff.
A Commitment to Community Engagement
Peters emphasises the importance of engaging with the community:
“As mayor, I would listen to the concerns of all residents and stakeholders and work collaboratively to find solutions,” he noted.
Stephens also shares a commitment to community service, citing his experience meeting thousands of residents and business owners during his time in office.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Election for Costa Mesa
As voters prepare to head to the polls in November, the contrast between John Stephens and James Peters becomes clearer. With different approaches to budgeting, public safety, and housing development, the outcome of this election could significantly shape the future of Costa Mesa.
The elected mayor will not only influence city policies for the next two years but will also set the tone for community engagement and financial responsibility.
Residents are encouraged to consider the candidates’ positions carefully and vote for the leader who aligns with their vision for Costa Mesa.
