Iseman announces her run for council reelection

The list of Laguna Beach City Council candidates grew Thursday with the announcement by incumbent Toni Iseman that she would run for reelection in November.

“In just three months, our voters will determine who will lead Laguna Beach, making decisions that will direct the future of our town,” Iseman said in a mass email. “I want to be your representative on the Laguna Beach City Council at this most important time.”

Iseman, a three-time mayor, joins current Councilman Kelly Boyd, restaurateur Jon Madison, former Laguna Beach Republicans President Michele Hall, Planning Commissioner Robert Zur Schmiede and resident Paul Merritt as candidates vying for three of five council seats. Mayor Elizabeth Pearson has said she will not seek reelection.

Iseman noted her contributions toward trying to resolve transit and quality-of-life issues, including problems with noise and lighting.

“My record of creative solutions is evident,” Iseman said. “Look around at the free trolleys that take cars off our streets. They serve visitors and residents alike. Ridership has gone from less than 120,000 in 2000 to more than 593,000 in 2013.”

Iseman said she is also focused on improving bicycle safety, enhancing the business climate and improving the appearance of Laguna.

“I’m working to make it easier for us to underground our utilities and create safe bike lanes on Laguna Canyon Road,” she said. “The unique nature of our business community is essential to Laguna. We can’t take it for granted.

“I am running for reelection with a promise that I will continue to listen and respond to resident concerns. It will take work to keep Laguna the treasure that it is. I have the experience and passion to protect our town and our residents.”

Election Day is Nov. 4.

—Bryce Alderton

Twitter: @AldertonBryce