Besides the monetary factor, another disadvantage to holding a special election is that the panel would be short a member for four months-from now until November. This seemed to be Mayor Steve Jones' other concern, other than the cost, "We are doing more regional outreach than ever, and we need all five of us." Jones also doesn't like the idea of an election, saying the cost factor was a "no-brainer."

All these concerns were squashed in less than an hour as council members moved to appoint a new panel member, which came as no surprise at all considering the potential cost.

With that decided, applications are available and will be accepted at city hall beginning today, to serve the remainder of Council member Tripp's term-which runs to March 2013. It is open to any La Mirada resident, 18 years or older, a registered voter, and a U.S. citizen. The application period will close June 22nd at 5 p.m. Applications are available here. The city must appoint a new member by August 16th.

With the recent retirements of long-time council members Pete Dames and Hal Malkin, Mayor Steve Jones, in his fourth term has become the guiding force. With the resignation of Tripp, who was in her third term, the council now has Jones, and newly-elected Mowles and DeRuse, along with Garcia all in their first terms. With this upcoming appointment, four of five seats will be first-term occupants.

         Vacancy Appointment Schedule