The Stanton City Council is preparing for a special session on Tuesday where members will deliberate a pivotal decision concerning the upcoming November 3 election for the office of mayor. The discussion centers on whether the city will proceed with the mayoral election or potentially cancel that specific portion of the ballot.
This unusual consideration arises from the fact that only one candidate has filed to run for the mayor’s post: the current incumbent, David Shawver. The council’s options are clearly defined: they could vote to formally appoint Mayor Shawver to another four-year term, thereby canceling the mayoral election. Alternatively, the council might decide to proceed with the election as planned, ensuring that write-in voters retain the opportunity to cast their ballots for the position. This decision point reflects a procedural choice for local governance when an incumbent faces no direct challengers on the ballot.
Mayor Shawver brings a long and established record of public service to this situation. His tenure in Stanton city government began in 1988 when he was first elected to the city council. He later ascended to the role of mayor in 2006, and has since served multiple terms at the city’s helm. His history with unopposed elections for the top office is not unique, as he was previously elected to the mayor’s post without opposition in 2022. The council's decision on Tuesday will determine the mechanism by which his next term, if confirmed, will commence.
It is important for residents to note that any decision made regarding the mayoral election will not impact other races on the ballot. Voting for the two city council seats will proceed as scheduled, regardless of the outcome of the special session concerning the mayor's position. This ensures continuity for other critical local offices.
In addition to the discussion on the mayoral election, the Tuesday meeting agenda also includes a closed session. During this private discussion, the council is slated to address matters related to 40 properties situated in the Tina-Pacific area. Specifically, the session will cover the price and terms of payment for these properties, a matter that frequently involves careful consideration of public resources and real estate strategy.
The special session of the Stanton City Council is scheduled to commence at 5 p.m. All interested community members are invited to attend the meeting, which will be held at Stanton City Hall, located at 7800 Katella Ave.
