Jennifer McGrath Huntington Beach City Attorney

Huntington Beach election results.  The election is over and the Huntington Beach community has made it clear that they want Jennifer McGrath as their Huntington Beach City Attorney.

Huntington Beach residents voted to return Jennifer McGrath to office with over 72% of the vote reflecting clear approval of her job performance and a mandate to continue in her role as a government watchdog and protector of taxpayer dollars.

Endorsed by numerous community organizations and individuals, Jennifer McGrath received the most important endorsement – that of her fellow Huntington Beach residents.

I am honored that my fellow citizens have re-elected me to the office of Huntington Beach City Attorney.  I will continue striving to earn that trust every day.

I will continue to provide the City of Huntington Beach with nonpartisan pro-active legal assistance to avoid litigation whenever possible and I will aggressively defend lawsuits against the City.  I believe tax dollars should not be wasted on frivolous lawsuits, but dedicated to public safety, infrastructure, and community services.

I believe in honest ethical government which is why I will continue to personally teach ethics training three times a year to all elected and appointed Huntington Beach City officials, as well as to City employees involved in fiscal management of the City’s affairs.

I believe in transparent government which is why I will continue City-wide training programs on a variety of topics including the Brown Act and the Public Records Act to remind Huntington Beach City staff that they work for the citizens.

I am proud to continue working for the people and the City that is my hometown.

Other races in the Huntington Beach election were much closer.  Twenty-one candidates vied for four spots on the Huntington Beach City Council.  The four candidates elected to the City Council include Connie Boardman with 9.4% of the vote, Joe Carchio with 8.7%, Matthew Harper with 7.5%, and Joe Shaw with 6.9%.

In other elections of note, Huntington Beach Mayor Cathy Green was elected to the Orange County Water District with 39% of the vote, and Huntington Beach Treasurer Shari Freidenrich was elected as the Orange County Treasurer-Tax Collector with 54.6% of the vote.

Huntington Beach voters passed judgment on four measures submitted for their consideration.  The voters approved Measure N which updated the Huntington Beach City Charter, as well Measure P which modernized the Huntington Beach Utility Users Taxes.  Huntington Beach voters rejected Measure Q indicating their disapproval of cell phone tower construction in Harbour View and Bolsa View parks.  Voters also rejected Measure O which would have mandated that debt service, or any other indirect costs, be excluded in the 15% calculation of the general fund expenditures for infrastructure improvements.

Jennifer McGrath Huntington Beach City Attorney

The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach holds candidate forums in election years as a service to the Huntington Beach community as they prepare to vote in the November 2, Huntington Beach election.  This year the Kiwanis Club held forums for Huntington Beach City Attorney candidates, Huntington Beach City Council candidates, and Orange County Water Board candidates.

The Kiwanis Huntington Beach City Attorney Candidate Forum was held on September 28, 2010, at the Meadowlark Country Club in Huntington Beach, in conjunction with the Orange County Water District Candidate Forum.  The Kiwanis Huntington Beach City Council Candidate Forum was held on September 21.

Jennifer McGrath incumbent Huntington Beach City Attorney was pleased to attend the Huntington Beach City Attorney Candidate Forum to discuss the office of City Attorney for Huntington Beach and her qualifications for the job.  The City Attorney represents and advises the City Council and all City officials in matters of law pertaining to the business of the City of Huntington Beach.  The City Attorney also represents the City of Huntington Beach in court.  The City Attorney position naturally requires an extensive background in municipal law.

Jennifer McGrath talked about the fact that she has served as the Huntington Beach City Attorney since her election in November 2002, after previously working as a Deputy City Attorney.  She not only has the experience, she is the only candidate with the necessary background in municipal law.  Her opponent has been an attorney for less than three years and has no experience in municipal law.

Jennifer McGrath discussed the fact that with the Huntington Beach City Attorney’s office shouldering its share of City budget cuts, it is more important than ever that Huntington Beach has a seasoned and experienced City Attorney.  Quite simply, the City Attorney’s office must do more with less.  Now, more than ever, Huntington Beach needs a City Attorney with experience, dedication, and a proven track record.  Jennifer McGrath is the right choice for Huntington Beach City Attorney.

Jennifer McGrath commented on her proven record of superior legal representation of the City with reduced reliance on outside counsel and substantial cost savings for Huntington Beach.  She protects taxpayer money, reducing the need for taxes and fees, by avoiding lawsuits whenever possible and aggressively defending lawsuits against the City.  Jennifer McGrath believes tax dollars should not be wasted on frivolous lawsuits, but dedicated to public safety, infrastructure, and community services.

Jennifer McGrath spoke about the fact that she has used her expertise to improve service levels to the Huntington Beach City Council, City staff, and the community.  She reorganized the City Attorney’s office and created an Advisory and Litigation division.  The Advisory Division advises City staff of all departments on a daily basis on how to accomplish their goal while avoiding litigation.  The Litigation Division handles 95% of the cases filed against the City at significantly less expense than outside attorneys.

During her tenure as Huntington Beach City Attorney, Jennifer McGrath has implemented new technology to increase transparency and permit the distribution of public reports about the activities of the City Attorney’s office.  She established City-wide training programs on a variety of topics including Ethics, the Brown Act, and the Public Records Act to remind Huntington Beach City staff that they work for the citizens.

Jennifer McGrath is widely endorsed as the right choice for Huntington Beach City Attorney by dignitaries from all parties based on her practice of providing legal advice without personal bias or partisanship.

Kiwanis Huntington Beach Candidate Forum

The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach is a service organization dedicated to serving the youth of Huntington Beach and assisting needy individuals in the Huntington Beach community includding Huntington Beach seniors.  Huntington Beach Kiwanis members volunteer their time and donate their money in support of this Kiwanis mission and the charitable events sponsored by the Huntington Beach Kiwanis Club.

Jennifer McGrath is a proud member of the Huntington Beach Kiwanis Club.  The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach is affiliated with Kiwanis International.  Kiwanis Clubs around the world stage about 150,000 service projects and raise nearly $107 million every year for communities and families.

To become a Kiwanis member or request more information, go to the Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach website.  The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach meets every Tuesday at 11:45 am at the Meadowlark Country Club upstairs dining room, 16782 Graham Street, Huntington Beach, California.

Kiwanis Huntington Beach Candidates

The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach held candidate forums in September for Huntington Beach candidates in the upcoming November 2, Huntington Beach election.  The Kiwanis Club holds candidate forums in election years as a service to the community.

The Kiwanis Huntington Beach City Council Candidate Forum was held on September 21, 2010, at the Meadowlark Country Club in Huntington Beach.  The Kiwanis Huntington Beach City Attorney Candidate Forum and the Orange County Water District Candidate Forum were held jointly on September 28, also at the Meadowlark Country Club.  The forums were well attended and provided a unique opportunity for Huntington Beach residents to hear from the candidates running for local office.

The Kiwanis Huntington Beach City Council Candidate forum saw lively discussion and debate about the local issues facing Huntington Beach including fiscal responsibility, economic development, business and job growth, City infrastructure, budget priorities, the Poseidon desalination plant, Huntington Beach seniors, community services, and public safety.

Jennifer McGrath was pleased to attend the Huntington Beach City Council Candidate Forum in support of the Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach, of which she is a member.  Photographs of the Kiwanis Huntington Beach City Council Candidate Forum can be viewed at Kiwanis Huntington Beach Candidates.

Huntington Beach City Council Candidates include: Connie Boardman, a college biology professor; Bruce Brandt, a licensed professional engineer; Joe Carchio, incumbent City Council member and retired business owner; Andrissa Dominguez, a mom and playground supervisor; Barbara Delgleize, a business owner and Planning Commission member; Blair Farley, a pastor and Planning Commission member; Landon Fichtner, a meteorologist and science teacher; Heather Grow, an educator; William Grunwald, a business manager and attorney; Matthew Harper, a Huntington Beach High School District trustee; Dan Kalmick, a small business owner; Jim Katapodis, a police supervisor for LAPD; Billy O’Connell, a business owner and non-profit director; Erik Peterson, a businessman; Bill Rorick, a business executive and engineer; Shawn Roselius, a student; Joe Shaw, a small business owner; Fred Speaker, a business owner and Planning Commission member; John Von Holle, a retired municipal employee; Norm Westwell, a School Board member and business owner; and late comer Blake Rose, a write-in candidate.

Kiwanis Huntington Beach Candidate Forum

The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach is a service organization dedicated to serving the youth of Huntington Beach and assisting needy individuals in the Huntington Beach community.

Huntington Beach Kiwanis members volunteer their time and donate their money in support of this Kiwanis mission and the various Kiwanis Huntington Beach community activities such as Clothe the Children (providing clothing for under privileged children), Wheels for the World (assisting people with physical disabilities), Oak View Holiday Party (a festive treat of entertainment, gift bags, candy and fun for over 800 children of the community’s neediest families), Project Cherish (helping to preserve the dignity of the elderly by cleaning homes and doing yard work for Huntington Beach seniors needing assistance), plus many other community activities.

Jennifer McGrath is a proud member of the Huntington Beach Kiwanis Club.  The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach is affiliated with Kiwanis International.  Kiwanis Clubs around the world stage about 150,000 service projects and raise nearly $107 million every year for communities and families.

To become a Kiwanis member or request more information, go to the Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach website.  The Kiwanis Club of Huntington Beach meets every Tuesday at 11:45 am at the Meadowlark Country Club upstairs dining room, 16782 Graham Street, Huntington Beach, California.

Huntington Beach Green Expo

The 2010 Huntington Beach Green Expo took place on September 18, at the Huntington Beach Pier Plaza in Huntington Beach, California.  The annual Huntington Beach Green Expo provides an opportunity for the public to become more aware of the green choices available for the home, work, and at play.

Huntington Beach City Attorney Jennifer McGrath was pleased to attend this event in support of the Green Expo and its sponsors the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and the City of Huntington Beach.  Attendees were able to learn more about the benefits of going green using the latest technology and ideas in the areas of energy efficiency, recycling, waste reduction, water conversation, greenhouse gas reduction, and organic products.

Huntington Beach Green Expo - Jennifer McGrath Tests a Segway

The City of Huntington Beach has taken a lead in conservation and green solutions.  The City has initiated a number of green programs encompassing a broad range of components including facilities-energy conservation, waste management & recycling, as well as water quality & conservation.  One example is the installation of more energy efficient equipment and upgrades throughout the City’s facilities that will not only protect the environment but result in estimated annual cost savings of over $170,000.

Vendors at the Huntington Beach Green Expo were on hand with exhibits, information booths, product samples and demonstrations.  Over 60 vendors were present ranging from the Bolsa Chica Conservancy to the Boeing Company.  The Huntington Beach Green Expo also included musical entertainment provided by the Back Home Band, Nick Corsetti, Little Albert & The Bluestars, and the Mai Tais.

More information about green activities and conservation efforts by the City of Huntington Beach can be found at Huntington Beach goes Green.

Huntington Beach Interfaith Council

The Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council hosted the 11th annual Procession of Light on September 12, 2010, at Pier Plaza in Huntington Beach, California.

Over 35 different faith-based organizations participated in the Interfaith Council Procession of Light which included a variety of music and words of inspiration from local religious and political leaders.  The program also included the presentation of lifetime achievement awards to former Huntington Beach Mayors Shirley Dettloff and Ralph Bauer.

Jennifer McGrath was pleased to attend the Procession of Light in support of the Huntington Beach Interfaith Council.  Present throughout the day’s activities was the World Peace Flame which was brought directly from the eternal World Peace Flame at the Hague in the Netherlands.  The day began with the “Blessing of the Streets” at 2:30 p.m.  Participants gathered at the downtown Huntington Beach Library for a walk down Main Street to Pier Plaza adjacent to the Huntington Beach Pier.  The Blessing of the Streets procession was meant to acknowledge all that is good in the Huntington Beach community.

People then gathered at Pier Plaza for the Interfaith Council Procession Program activities which began with a lively musical performance by the Kyodo Taiko Drummers from the UCLA Collegiate Taiko Group.  The drummers were followed by a rousing Sister Act performance which included the songs “O Happy Day” and “Joyful, Joyful.”  Later in the activities, the crowd was entertained with moving spiritual performances by soloist Michael Paul Smith, the South Coast Simcha Band, and Noor.

Uplifting commentary was provided by leaders from various faiths including: Rabbi Stephen Einstein of the Congregation B’nai Tzedek; Father Joseph Knerr, pastor of St. Bonaventure Roman Catholic Church; Reverend Dr. Peggy Price of the Seal Beach Center for Spiritual Living; Father Christian Mondor of Sts. Simon & Jude Roman Catholic Church; Dr. Dale Braithwaite of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; and representatives of the Baha’i Faith, the Islamic Society, and the Zoroastrian Faith.

Huntington Beach Interfaith Council honors Shirley Dettloff and Ralph Bauer

The master of ceremonies for the Huntington Beach Interfaith Council Procession of Light was Dave Garofalo, Chairman of the 2010 Procession of Light Committee.  Procession of Light Committee members also included Rabbi Stephen Einstein, Tom Hohman, Father Christian Mondor, Debi Wheeler-Ure, Renate Groutier, and Dr. Dale Braithwaite.

Dignitaries in attendance to show their support for the Interfaith Council Procession of Light included U.S. Congressman (46th District) Dana Rohrabacher, Huntington Beach Mayor Cathy Green, Fountain Valley Mayor Larry Crandall, Huntington Beach City Attorney Jennifer McGrath, Huntington Beach City Councilmember Joe Carchio, Huntington Beach Treasurer Shari Freidenrich, and candidate for Huntington Beach City Council Fred Speaker.

The Huntington Beach Interfaith Council Procession of Light activities concluded with a walk to the end of the Huntington Beach pier and back led by bagpiper Dave Champagne.

The Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council is a non-profit organization that seeks to promote interfaith understanding and harmony through dialogue, education, programs and community activities.  The Huntington Beach Interfaith Council is based on the core American values of social justice and religious freedom for all.  To that end, the Huntington Beach Interfaith Council is involved in a number of events throughout the year including the Procession of Light in September, an Interfaith Thanksgiving Service in November, an Interfaith Prayer Breakfast in May, and the Huntington Beach 4th of July Parade.

The Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council meets monthly and welcomes all who want to become involved.  For more information see the Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council website or contact the Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council by email info@ghbic.org, or mail at 18685-A Main St., #194, Huntington Beach, CA 92648.

BB Jazz Huntington Beach

BB Jazz is a charitable organization whose purpose is to raise funds and awareness for children with autism and other charities for children.  BB Jazz raises funds by bringing always excellent Smooth Jazz, R&B and Contemporary Music to Huntington Beach, California.  BB Jazz is a wonderful charity and the project of Huntington Beach residents Betty and Corky Bennish.

BB Jazz organizes three annual events in Huntington Beach – the BB Jazz Festival in Central Park, the annual Library Theatre Series, and a New Years Eve Gala at the Huntington Beach Hyatt.  Each of these events is well worth your time and benefits a worthy cause.

In support of BB Jazz and children with autism, Huntington Beach City Attorney Jennifer McGrath was pleased to attend the 8th annual BB Jazz Festival which took place on September 11, 2010, in Huntington Beach Central Park.  Festival goers were treated to a stellar lineup of jazz musicians as well as the sounds of DJ Jonathan between performances.  There were two concert stages, the Village Stage and the VIP Stage, as well as sponsor exhibits, artisan booths, and delicious food.  See the BB Jazz Huntington Beach photos.

Corky Bennish and Betty Bennish founders of BB Jazz Huntington Beach

Also in attendance to support BB Jazz and children with autism were Joe Carchio, incumbent candidate for Huntington Beach City Council, Fred Speaker candidate for Huntington Beach City Council, and Shari Freidenrich, Huntington Beach Treasurer and candidate for Orange County Treasurer.

The music started at 10:30 a.m. and lasted until 9:00 p.m.  The jazz performance lineup included Maysa, The Tony Rich Project, Walter Beasley, Raul Midon, Andre Delano, Bob Baldwin with Art Sherrod Jr, Joey Sommerville with Eric Essix, Mahndo, and BK Jackson.

Upcoming BB Jazz events include the annual Library Theatre Series, and a New Years Eve Gala at the Huntington Beach Hyatt.  The Huntington Beach Library Theater Concert Series takes place in the intimate 319 seat theater of the Huntington Beach Library and Cultural Center located at 7111 Talbert Avenue, Huntington Beach, California.  Saxophonist Kim Waters is currently scheduled to perform in November.

The New Years Eve Gala takes place in an oceanfront setting at the Huntington Beach Hyatt located at 21500 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, California.  Marion Meadows and Christine Day will be performing as well as Rahsaan Patterson and DJ Jonathan.

For more information see the BB Jazz website.

Huntington Beach Police Officers Association

The Huntington Beach Police Officers Association has announced that they will be holding a public event on Sunday, September 19, 2010, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Buon Gusto Restaurant in Huntington Beach. 

The public is invited to join the Huntington Beach POA for free food and non-alcoholic beverages (a no host bar will be available).  It is an open house style event so feel free to come by whenever you like.

Candidates endorsed by the Huntington Beach Police Officers Association will be dropping in to chat with guests.  Election candidates endorsed by the Huntington Beach POA include: Cathy Green, the Huntington Beach Mayor and candidate for Orange County Water District #6; Jennifer McGrath, incumbent candidate for Huntington Beach City Attorney; Shari Freidenrich, Huntington Beach Treasurer and candidate for Orange County Treasurer; Joe Carchio, incumbent candidate for Huntington Beach City Council; Connie Boardman, candidate for Huntington Beach City Council; Jim Katapodis, candidate for Huntington Beach City Council; and Fred Speaker, candidate for Huntington Beach City Council. 

This is a unique opportunity to mingle with the candidates and HBPOA members in an informal setting over some delicious Italian food.  Come by and show your support.

Buon Gusto Restaurant Huntington Beach Police Officers Association Event

Location:

Buon Gusto Restaurant
(corner of Bolsa Chica & Warner)
4911 Warner Avenue
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
(714) 846-2600

When:  Sunday, September 19, 2010, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (open house style)

For more information contact Kreg Muller, President, Huntington Beach Police Officers Association, by email president@hbpoa.org, or mail at Huntington Beach Police Officers Association, P.O. Box 896, Huntington Beach, CA 92648, Telephone (714) 842-8851, website Huntington Beach Police Officers Association.

Huntington Beach Senior Saturday

The Huntington Beach Council on Aging held its annual Senior Saturday at Huntington Beach Pier Plaza on September 11.  Senior Saturday is the largest non-profit Senior Expo in Orange County.  Seniors from Huntington Beach and surrounding communities were provided an opportunity to learn more about organizations and businesses in Orange County that provide services to seniors.

City Attorney Jennifer McGrath was pleased to attend Senior Saturday in support of the Huntington Beach Council on Aging and the Huntington Beach senior community.  Jennifer McGrath talked with seniors about their issues and concerns as well as services that are available to them through the City of Huntington Beach.  Huntington Beach offers a variety of senior services through the Rodgers Seniors Center and the Seniors Outreach Center.  Contact the Rodgers Seniors Center (1706 Orange Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA, 92648, 714-536-9387) for services related to recreation, education, nutrition, socialization, and physical fitness.  Contact the Seniors Outreach Center (1718 Orange Avenue, Huntington Beach, CA, 92648, 714-960-2478) for services related to transportation, care-management, meals to the home, information and referrals.

Huntington Beach Senior Saturday is a free event and seniors were treated to free entertainment, prize drawings, a $2 breakfast and a $2 lunch.  Entertainment was provided by the Singing Goodtimers, the Jim Camarena & Western Line Dancers, and the Jamie Wood Band.  Over 70 sponsors were present including senior living communities, health professionals, physical therapists, home health care specialists, elder law attorneys, and many more.  This year’s Senior Saturday also provided an opportunity for seniors to meet many of the candidates running for local office in the election this November.

Jennifer McGrath at Huntington Beach Senior Saturday

In addition to talking with Jennifer McGrath, the current Huntington Beach City Attorney up for re-election, seniors had the opportunity to meet candidates for Huntington Beach City Council including Connie Boardman, Joe Carchio (incumbent City Councilmember), Barbara Delgleize, Blair Farley, Jim Katapodis,  Billy O’ Connell, Erik Peterson, Joe Shaw, Fred Speaker, and John Von Holle.  Seniors also met candidates for Orange County Water Board Cathy Green and Don MacAllister, as well as candidate for Orange County Treasurer Shari Freidenrich.

The Huntington Beach Council on Aging is a non-profit organization that seeks to enhace the dignity and quality of life of Huntington Beach senior citizens.  The Huntington Beach Council on Aging seeks to accomplish this goal through advocacy and direct action on behalf of Huntington Beach seniors.

Senior Saturday is an annual event held at Pier Plaza next to the Huntington Beach Pier at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and Main Street in Huntington Beach, California.  The City of Huntington Beach provides a free shuttle service for the event leaving every 15 minutes from the Rodgers Senior Center and Huntington Beach City Hall.

Read more about Jennifer McGrath talking to Huntington Beach Seniors.

You are invited!  The Committee to Re-Elect Jennifer McGrath is hosting a campaign fundraiser in Huntington Harbour on Wednesday, September 15, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.  Thank you to Eddie Clark for graciously offering his stunning home in Huntington Harbour for this fundraiser.  It is sure to be a beautiful day with a spectacular view.

Huntington Harbour in Huntington Beach

Location:  

Home of Edward Clark
17061 Bolero Lane
Huntington Beach, CA 92649

When:

Wednesday, September 15, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

A Sampling of Delicious Appetizers Will Be Served

Donation: $30/person or $50/couple – donate online now (or you may make a donation at the door)

RSVP: Please RSVP by email - ElectJenniferMcGrath@gmail.com

Please join us for this event.  It will be a wonderful opportunity to mingle with fellow supporters and chat with Jennifer McGrath in a relaxed setting with delicious appetizers and a spectacular harbour view. 

Donations

If you cannot join us that evening, please consider taking a few minutes to make a donation to the campaign.  An election campaign in today’s world is a very expensive undertaking.  And, as many of you know, our campaign was hurt when many of our most expensive signs were vandalized or stolen.  Your financial support is critical and we thank you for your donation in whatever amount you are able to contribute.

You can also help the campaign by telling your friends, family, or neighbors about this fundraiser.  Share this website page with them in an email.  You can even use the handy ”share/save” buttons at the bottom of this article to quickly and easily share this fundraiser information using email or any of the popular social websites.

Jennifer McGrath Incumbent Huntington Beach City Attorney

Jennifer McGrath received several key endorsements from public safety organizations in Huntington Beach.  The Huntington Beach Police Officers Association and the Huntington Beach Firefighters Association interviewed and evaluated the Huntington Beach candidates running for office in the November election. 

The Firefighters Association and the Police Officers Association both endorsed Jennifer McGrath as the right choice to be City Attorney for Huntington Beach. 

“I am honored to receive the endorsement of our local firefighters and police.  I applaud the efforts of our police and firefighters in ensuring our community is a better and safer place to live,” said Jennifer McGrath. “These admirable men and women have devoted their lives to protecting our lives.”
 
“Public safety is even more critical in these economic times.  Huntington Beach is a tourist destination for visitors worldwide.  Business growth and job growth depend on our residents and visitors being safe and secure.  Public safety is a key partner in creating new jobs and opportunities in our local economy.”

In addition to endorsing Jennifer McGrath for Huntington Beach City Attorney, the Huntington Beach Police Officers Association endorsed four candidates for City Council including: Connie Boardman, Joe Carchio, Jim Katapodis, and Fred Speaker.  The Police Officers Association also endorsed Shari Freidenrich for Orange County Treasurer and Cathy Green for Orange County Water District #6.
 
In addition to endorsing Jennifer McGrath, the Huntington Beach Firefighters Association endorsed Blair Farley for City Council as well as Council candidates Connie Boardman, Joe Carchio, and Fred Speaker.  The Firefighters Association also endorsed Shari Freidenrich and Cathy Green.