Call for Irvine Recall

We are reminded by last week’s political convention that elected officials must represent all of their constituents and not just their supporters if they are to be successful. This is particularly true for those elected to local office, such as mayor and city council.

The recent events leading up to and surrounding Measure D have provided an opportunity for the new majority on the Irvine City Council to take advantage of the under-representation on the City Council. Flexing its muscles, the new majority seems to have wasted no time in ignoring the obvious will of the people of Irvine.

Measure D passed June 7 by a near-unanimous vote. Mayor Larry Agran and his supporters were proponents of Measure D, until the politics of opportunism showed them that it was not to their advantage to continue to support it. Such action was done in a manner that not even their supporters could respect and reminds us just how vicious and dirty politics can be.

Agran and Councilman Edward A. Dornan had a rare opportunity to exhibit the John F. Kennedy idealism that they profess by remaining true to their position on Measure D. Had they done so, the community would have to respect their honesty, whether it agreed with their philosophy or not. Instead, we see them for what they really stand for: enlightened self interest!

Cameron Cosgrove had an even more unique opportunity. Had he refused to take the oath and sought the election as Measure D allows, I believe he would have shown the courage and idealism that inspired an enormous vote of confidence on June 7.

These events, which have been described as the politics of deception and power, have been disappointing to many of us.

Whether you agree or disagree with the philosophy of Agran & company, he and his group of supporters have been very disruptive to this city.

The actions of these three “public servants” represent an abuse of the trust and power that we have given. They have shown that they are willing to sacrifice even their principles for the sake of quick political gain. The city of Irvine deserves better! I therefore call for petitions to be circulated that will decide the issue by recalling Mayor Agran and Councilmen Dornan and Cosgrove.

GARY DRAPER

Irvine