The upcoming mayoral election in Rancho Santa Margarita is heating up as three candidates vie for the position, while recent developments have reshaped the District 3 Council race. With the stakes high, it’s essential for voters to understand who is running and what they stand for.
A Shift in the District 3 Race
In an unexpected turn of events, Carol Gamble, the current mayor, has stepped back from the District 3 race due to an error in her nomination paperwork. She stated that she attested to “an inaccurate statement” that was discovered after the review period ended.
- Gamble’s resignation from the District 3 race means that Kerri Lynn Baert, a former nonprofit executive, is now the sole candidate for that seat.
- Gamble noted that if she is elected as mayor, she would resign immediately, adding an intriguing layer to the mayoral race.
Kerri Lynn Baert’s Vision for District 3
Baert has a clear focus on addressing the community’s pressing needs. According to her statement in the Orange County Register’s Voter Guide, she believes:
- Public Safety Funding: Securing enough money for public safety is crucial. She emphasizes the need to proactively manage increasing expenses while maintaining necessary public safety staff.
- E-bike Regulations: Baert advocates for local ordinances that will set clear rules for e-bike usage, reflecting her commitment to community safety.
The Mayoral Candidates
Incumbent Tony Beal
Tony Beal, an incumbent and former mayor, is seeking to reclaim his title. He has been vocal about his priorities:
- Public Safety Commitment: Beal highlighted that over 50% of the city’s annual budget is dedicated to public safety. “Our commitment to public safety is evident,” he states, citing that Rancho Santa Margarita continues to be ranked as the No. 1 safest city in California by the FBI.
Tony Mata
Tony Mata, a real estate broker who has lived in the city for 23 years, aims to position Rancho Santa Margarita as the “crown jewel of Orange County.” His platform includes:
- Corporate Leadership: With 36 years of experience in real estate and finance, Mata prides himself on his leadership skills. He emphasizes his dedication to an open and transparent government.
Myrta Rivera
Myrta Rivera, a community volunteer, brings a different perspective to the race. Her commitments include:
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Advocacy for Public Policies: Rivera is dedicated to enhancing community well-being through effective public policies. She aims to secure additional funding for public safety and promote development that benefits all residents.
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Support for Small Businesses: She believes in the importance of supporting small businesses and encouraging job growth while ensuring regulations do not adversely affect low-income families.
Key Issues Facing Rancho Santa Margarita
As the candidates outline their visions, several key issues resonate with residents. These include:
- Public Safety: Ensuring the city remains safe is a top priority for all candidates. This includes budget allocations and strategic planning.
- Fiscal Responsibility: With increasing expenses and flat revenue, candidates need to develop new revenue streams while being fiscally responsible.
- Community Development: Candidates are keen on fostering development that aligns with community values while promoting small businesses.
Conclusion: A Critical Election Ahead
With the mayoral election in Rancho Santa Margarita approaching, voters face a pivotal choice among three candidates, each with distinct priorities and visions for the city. The fallout from Gamble’s withdrawal from the District 3 race adds an extra layer of complexity to an already dynamic electoral landscape.
It’s crucial for residents to engage in the electoral process, understand the candidates’ positions, and consider how their decisions will shape the future of Rancho Santa Margarita.
Stay informed, get involved, and make your voice heard in this vital election.
