City’s appointing new council member sparks community’s concerns

Calexico residents said an old way of doing city business is back after the city announced they’ll be the ones choosing the next council member – not the community.

Morris Reisin said, “It’s the Compadre system. You have friends out there that you want to get in, so you can get the votes in. I don’t like it. But that’s what they’re going to do and I have no choice.”

The city is accepting applications to fill an open council seat left by former member Jesus Escobar, who left to serve as a county supervisor. Forms can be found on the city’s website.

City Assistant Manager Miguel Figueroa said, “The subcommittee that was put in place by the city council will vet the applications so they meet the minimum requirements, so they can look at the qualifications and then, in a public setting, these are going to be discussed and acted on.”

Council Member Bill Hodge said appointing someone is cost effective.

“To spend 50 thousand [dollars] or more on an election, when we could probably use that for public safety, just doesn’t make sense at this particular time,” Hodge said.
The committee is made up of council members Bill Hodge, David Romero, the city manager and assistant city manager. Residents said this is wrong.

Joong Kim said, “They want someone to support them, not the community.”
James Beaver said, “The Compadre System is back to the City of Calexico.”

Morris said the committee should be made up with community members to screen applicants.

“Ad Hoc committee of five members and let them choose the top three and present it to the city council,” Reisin said.

Applications must be submitted by Tuesday, January 22 nd before 5 p.m.

The residents we spoke to urge the community to attend the next meeting on Wednesday to voice their concerns.

Application forms are at www.calexico.ca.gov/announcements.