The Encinitas City Council is set to interview eight candidates vying for the vacant District 4 seat, left by former Councilman Bruce Ehlers' promotion to Mayor. The selection process is expected to take place during the council's regular meeting on Wednesday.
Eight candidates are vying for the open District 4 City Council seat in Encinitas following the promotion of former Councilman Bruce Ehlers to Mayor. The Encinitas City Council is scheduled to interview all eight applicants during its regular meeting on Wednesday, December 20th, at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 505 S. Vulcan Ave.
The council may select a new councilmember immediately after the interviews, which are expected to include brief statements from each applicant outlining their qualifications and interest in serving the city. District 4 encompasses the eastern regions of Encinitas, including Olivenhain and portions of New Encinitas. Ehlers resigned his council seat to assume his mayoral duties after winning the election in November. The council opted for an appointment process to fill the remaining two years of Ehlers' term, as a special election would have cost between $275,000 and $450,000. The earliest a special election could have been held was August 26th. The city code requires applicants to be at least 18 years old, reside within District 4, and be registered voters. Ehlers has publicly stated his preference for an appointee who lives in New Encinitas, rather than Olivenhain, identifies as nonpartisan, and demonstrates a willingness to dedicate time to thoroughly reviewing extensive council agenda packets. Initial interest in the position drew nine applicants. However, one applicant was disqualified during the county review process as they were confirmed to reside outside of District 4.Among the remaining eight candidates are several individuals with notable civic engagement and professional backgrounds. They include: Julie Graboi, an Olivenhain resident and MiraCosta College instructor actively involved in city issues such as Proposition A and the General Plan update. Brad Lefkowits, the owner of Waves Landscape Design and a member of the city's Urban Forest Advisory Committee, residing in New Encinitas and actively involved with the Parents of Encinitas Union School District. Farhad Mahmoudi, a New Encinitas resident working in the legal technology industry, who has pledged not to seek election in 2026. Denise M. Martin, a New Encinitas resident and high school mathematics teacher, with over a decade of experience as president of her homeowners' association and involvement as a Proposition A community organizer. Michael Quinn, a city Parks & Recreation commissioner residing in New Encinitas, currently working as a substitute teacher, and possessing 30 years of experience in the natural foods industry, including owning two stores. Marco San Antonio, the owner of One Day Signs, a former Orange County firefighter, and a current board member of the Olivenhain Municipal Water District. Eli Stern, a retired financial company employee who has served on the city's Senior Citizen Commission and Affordable Housing Task Force. Paul Templin, an engineer and former Peace Corps volunteer in Kenya, with recent experience in cybersecurity programs for Toyota and ViaSat.
Encinitas City Council District 4 Bruce Ehlers Appointment Process Olivenhain New Encinitas Election
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