City Guide

LAGUNA BEACH

Mayor: Kathleen Blackburn

Age: 51

Occupation: Controller, Hobie Sunglasses Inc.

First elected: 1992

Term expires: 1996

Key issues: Wants to focus on basic government issues such as public safety and infrastructure and reduce the city’s involvement in various lawsuits and legal conflicts. She is also interested in forming a stronger partnership with the city’s business community and fostering better communication between residents and city officials.

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Councilman: Wayne J. Baglin

Age: 51

Occupation: Real estate broker

First elected: 1994

Term expires: 1998

Key issues: Wants to settle pending land-use lawsuits against the city, have broader community and staff participation in adopting a balanced city budget and begin planning for a Village Entrance parking structure. He also wants to “re-prioritize the agenda” of the Planning Commission so emphasis is on updating the General Plans for some areas of the city, including the Diamond Crestview neighborhood and the downtown Central Bluff area.

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Councilman: Steve Dicterow

Age: 40

Occupation: Attorney

First elected: 1994

Term expires: 1998

Key issues: Wants to increase the number of police in the city and make sure Laguna Beach has adequate fire protection, including enough firefighters who are properly trained and equipped. He also wants to develop a strategic plan to increase the city’s revenue base and develop more programs for seniors and youth.

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Councilman: Paul Freeman

Age: 40

Occupation: Handles community and government relations and charitable giving for the Segerstrom family

First elected: 1994

Term expires: 1998

Key issues: Wants to expand the city’s revenue base, create more high-end (but low-key) hotel rooms and reduce the amount of litigation against the city. He also wants to strengthen public safety in the city, preserve the environment and expedite the Village Entrance project.

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Councilman: Wayne L. Peterson

Age: 55

Occupation: Property manager

First elected: 1992

Term expires: 1996

Key issues: Wants to establish a sound financial basis for the city and minimize its involvement in various types of litigation. He opposes giving a disproportionate amount of influence to a select group of residents, believing that the city should ensure equal representation for every individual. Also wants to expand facilities for senior and youth programs.

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Other Key Officials

City Manager: Kenneth C. Frank

Age: 50

In office: Since 1979

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City Attorney: Philip D. Kohn

Age: 42

In office: Since 1982

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Police Chief: Neil J. Purcell Jr.

Age: 54

In office: Since 1982

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Fire Chief: William Edmundson

Age: 53

In office: Since Nov. 28, 1994

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How to Reach Them

Council meets: First and third Tuesdays of the month, 6 p.m., at City Hall, 505 Forest Ave.

Hours: City Hall is open Mondays through Fridays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Telephone: (714) 497-3311

Fax: (714) 497-0771

Fast Facts

Flower: Geranium

Tree: Eucalyptus

Incorporated: June 29, 1927

Population: 24,000

Legislative districts: 35th Senate, 47th Congressional, 48th and 70th Assembly

Budget: $29 million

City employees: 210

Highest-paid employee: City manager is paid $115,824 annually

Council pay: Members each receive $300 per month

RESEARCHED BY LESLIE EARNEST