Mayor’s bid for reelection draws a crowd

Mayor Elizabeth Pearson-Schneider launched her reelection campaign Sunday at the “rock house,” where four years ago she announced her intention to run for City Council.

More than 200 supporters attended the fundraiser held at Dennis Morin’s South Laguna home, built into a scooped out rock next to Aliso Beach. About $22,000 was raised to fund the mayor’s bid for reelection.

Pearson-Schneider shared the spotlight with her friend, former Assemblywoman Pat Bates, who is running for Supervisor of Orange County’s 5th District, which includes Laguna Beach.

“There are not many women who would share their premier event,” Bates said.

Pearson-Schneider likened Bates to herself. “Just get out of our way and let us get it done,” the mayor said.

It was a recurring theme among supporters.

Laguna Beach County Water District General Manager Renae Hinchey, who supports Pearson-Schneider as a private individual, said the mayor had accomplished more in one year than anyone else in the office.

“She gets things done,” Hinchey said.