Re-Elect Jennifer McGrath Huntington Beach City Attorney

Huntington Beach Senior Dorothy Silverman talks to Jennifer McGrath. Mrs. Silverman is a realtor at Berg Realty and a longtime volunteer in the Huntington Beach community.

The Campaign to Re-Elect Jennifer McGrath Huntington Beach City Attorney was out in force today walking the neighborhoods and talking to the Huntington Beach community.  Jennifer McGrath took the time to personally talk with concerned citizens, particularly Huntington Beach seniors. 

Huntington Beach is a city of over 200,000 of which over 10% are senior citizens living on a fixed income.  Ms. McGrath has always been empathetic to the senior community in Huntington Beach.  Senior citizens told Ms. McGrath about their sense of uncertainty and vulnerability.  They expressed a number of concerns including, among others, the economy, healthcare, taxes, and community services.  Seniors are also feeling frustrated with what they see as an increasing lack of ethics in government.

During her tenure as Huntington Beach City Attorney, Jennifer McGrath has attacked the ethical issue directly.  An authority on government ethics, Ms. McGrath provides state-mandated ethics training three times a year to all elected and appointed Huntington Beach City officials, as well as City employees involved in fiscal management of the City’s affairs. 

Even before the current economic times, Jennifer McGrath was also spearheading the effort to protect taxpayer money and preserve Huntington Beach City services. 

I have been blessed to serve this community since 2002.  As your City Attorney, my role is to advise the City Council and staff on all legal matters regardless of personal opinion or partisanship.  I protect taxpayer money, reducing the need for taxes and fees, by avoiding lawsuits whenever possible and aggressively defending all lawsuits against the City.  Your tax dollars should not be wasted on frivolous lawsuits, but dedicated to public safety, infrastructure, and community services.

In pursuit of protecting taxpayer money and preserving Huntington Beach City services, Ms. McGrath has:

• Established and maintained a form of aggressive, yet cost-effective, litigation;
• Reorganized the office to create a pro-active Advisory Division to reduce the filing of frivolous litigation against the City;
• Implemented the technological tools, including law office management software and use of the Internet, to improve communication with the staff, City Council, and the public;
• Continued to provide pro-active legal advice on a daily basis to City staff and City Council to minimize the likelihood of litigation and reduce the use of outside counsel;
• Maintained a City-wide training program to improve compliance with state and local law at all levels of the organization, including Ethics, the Brown Act, Public Records Act, and Contract Preparation;
• Provided immediate advice to all City Departments including Public Works, Police, and Fire; and trained City staff on a wide variety of topics on an annual basis to help them do things the right way the first time.

Jennifer McGrath is very involved in the Huntington Beach community and welcomes the opportunity to talk with residents.  Ms. McGrath regularly appears at local events, social club meetings, and other gatherings to talk about the issues and listen to citizen concerns.  Feel free to email her if you would like her to appear at your event or community gathering.

The City of Huntington Beach provides a wide array of services to Huntington Beach seniors many of which are highlighted at the annual Huntington Beach Senior Saturday.  Jennifer McGrath is always happy to talk to seniors personally about their needs and concerns.

Jennifer McGrath Candidate Huntington Beach City Attorney

California Secretary of State Debra Bowen today announced the results of the randomized alphabet drawing for candidate order on the November 2, 2010, general election ballots.  The Committee to Re-Elect Jennifer McGrath City Attorney of Huntington Beach is pleased to announce that, based on the results of the random drawing, Jennifer McGrath will be listed first on the ballot among candidates for the office of Huntington Beach City Attorney in the November Huntington Beach election.

The random alphabet drawing is held every election in accordance with California Elections Code section 13112.  The California Secretary of State’s office pulls letters in a lottery-style drawing, with witnesses from the public present, to determine the order candidates are listed on the ballot in the November election.  See the press announcement by the Secretary of State – Candidate Order for General Election Ballot.

Brett Simpson Wins US Open of Surfing Huntington Beach

It was a great week for Huntington Beach.  The US Open of Surfing and local hero Brett Simpson reminded the world that Huntington Beach, California, is Surf City USA.  Congratulations to Brett Simpson, 25, on winning back-to-back US Open of Surfing Championships.  Brett Simpson defeated top ranked surfer Michael “Jordy” Smith, 22, of South Africa (13.97 to 8.33) to win the 2010 US Open of Surfing Championship.  Last year, Simpson defeated two-time world champion Mick Fanning to win the 2009 US Open of Surfing.  See photos of the US Open of Surfing final heat.

The entire City of Huntington Beach is proud of this young man and his accomplishments.  Brett Simpson, a graduate of Huntington Beach High School and son of American football player Bill Simpson, was the Orange County Surfer of the Year in 2008 and 2009.  Brett continues to develop as one of the finest surfers in the world.  His place in the history of surfing is assured with these consecutive wins at the US Open of Surfing.  In the years to come, one can see him taking his place in the Surfing Walk of Fame and the Surfers’ Hall of Fame.

The field of contenders at the 2010 US Open of Surfing included many of the top surfers in the world.  Brett Simpson battled past Nathaniel Curran, 26, (2008 US Open Surfing Champion) in the quarterfinals (10.14 to 9.74), and nine time ASP World Champion Kelly Slater, 38, in the semifinals (13.37 to 13.33).  Jordy Smith defeated Miguel Pupo, 18, of Brazil in the quarterfinals (17.66 to 16.10), and Australian Mick Fanning, 29, (2007 and 2009 ASP World Tour Surfing Champion) in the semifinals (13.00 to 12.80).

US Open of Surfing

It was exciting to watch the final heat of the US Open of Surfing, as Brett Simpson and Jordy Smith squared off battling to make the most of each wave.  “Jordy has been getting quick starts, so I tried to go out there and get a decent start,” said Simpson.  “I got a five, and it was a low scoring heat, but all the waves I caught I maximized.  Jordy had that one wave, where if he pulled that air it could have been a different ballgame.  That’s the risk you take to be rewarded and with the level these days, that’s where it’s at.  I kind of stayed conservative and built my scores, but either way, a win is a win.”

A tip of the hat to Carissa Moore the Womens US Open of Surfing Champion, Evan Geiselman the Mens Pro Jr. US Open of Surfing Champion, and Sage Erickson the Womens Pro Jr. US Open of Surfing Champion.  The organizers of the US Open of Surfing put on another fine event and we look forward to their return next year.  Huntington Beach is Surf City USA!

Surfers Hall of Fame Huntington Beach

In support of the Huntington Beach Surfers Hall of Fame, Jennifer McGrath today attended the induction ceremony for Stephanie Gilmore, Ian “Kanga” Cairns, and Randy Lewis.  The Surfers Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place in front of Huntington Surf and Sport, less than 100 feet from the famed Huntington Beach Pier, coinciding with the Hurley US Open of Surfing.

The Surfers Hall of Fame is styled after the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Hollywood.  Inductees place their hands and feet into wet cement on the walkway outside of Huntington Surf and Sport.  The Surfers Hall of Fame pays tribute to “those individuals who have made an indelible mark on the sport, industry and culture of surfing.”  The Hall of Fame walkway ”connects the generations of surfers with a lasting tribute and permanent public showcase for the achievements of those who have shaped and revolutionized the sport” of surfing.

Surfers Hall of Fame

The Surfers Hall of Fame induction was hosted by Huntington Surf and Sport owner Aaron Pai, with Dave Stanfield and Rick “Rockin Fig” Fignetti providing commentary.  In addition to Huntington Beach City Attorney Jennfer McGrath, dignitaries in attendance to support the Surfers Hall of Fame included Huntington Beach Mayor Cathy Green, Councilman Joe Carchio, Councilwoman Jill Hardy, City Manager Fred Wilson, Fire Chief Patrick McIntosh, and others.  Take a look at this slide show of 2010 induction Surfers Hall of Fame photographs, courtesy of Jennifer McGrath.

Australian professional surfer Stephanie Gilmore, 22, is a triple world champion on the Women’s ASP World Tour.  She won the World Championship Title in 2007, 2008, and 2009.  Stephanie Gilmore continues to have success in 2010 having won three surfing competitions to date: the Roxy Pro Gold Coast, the Bells Beach Surf Classic, and the Commonwealth Bank Beachley Classic.

Ian Cairns, 58, is a champion surfer and a substantial influence in the world of surfing.  Major surfing championships include the 1973 Smirnoff Pro surfing competition at Sunset Beach, the 1975 Duke Kahanamoku Invitational Surfing Championship, and World Cup events in 1976 and 1980.  In 1975, Ian Cairns and Australian surfer Peter Townend devised a rating and scoring system for surfing events.  In 1979, they formed the National Scholastic Surfing Association (NSSA).  In 1983, Ian Cairns became the first director of the Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP).

Randy Lewis, 60, is a Huntington Beach local who made a name for himself as a surfing champion and surfboard shaper.  In 1976 and 1977, Randy Lewis won the West Coast Surfing Championships.  In 1978 and 1979, he won the San Onofre Surf Club Championships.  As recently as 2006, he won the City of Huntington Beach Surfing Championship.  Randy Lewis began shaping surfboards in the mid 1960s under the tutelage of Gordie Duane.  He had his own surf shop in the decade from 1977 to 1987, the Randy Lewis Surf Center.  He presently shapes surfboards for Chuck Dent.

The cement is dry so check out the newest additions to the Surfers Hall of Fame walkway as you enjoy the US Open of Surfing this weekend in Huntington Beach.

Surfing Walk of Fame Huntington Beach Hilton

Jennifer McGrath appeared today at the Surfing Walk of Fame inductee reception at the Huntington Beach Hilton.  The Surfing Walk of Fame honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport and culture of surfing.  The 2010 inductees include: Surfing Champions Sunny Garcia and Ian Cairns, Woman of the Year Candy Calhoun, Local Hero Rick “Rockin Fig” Fignetti, Surf Culture icon Dave Rochlen, Surf Pioneer Dewey Weber, and Honor Roll inductee Dick Baker.

In addition to Ms. McGrath, dignitaries in attendance to show their support for the Surfing Walk of Fame included California State Assemblyman Jim Silva, Orange County Supervisor John Moorlach, Huntington Beach Mayor Cathy Green, Councilman Joe Carchio, and others.  See the Surfing Walk of Fame photographs.

The Surfing Walk of Fame will be hosting an induction ceremony at 10:00 a. m. on Thursday, August 5th, in front of Jack’s Surfboards in Huntington Beach.  Jennifer McGrath will be attending the ceremony.  The Surfing Walk of Fame induction is taking place in conjunction with the US Open of Surfing which started July 31, and is ongoing through August 8, in Huntington Beach.

This is the 17th year of Surfing Walk of Fame inductions.  Ballots are sent out to the surfing industry each year to select inductees in five categories - Surf Pioneer, Surf Champion, Woman of the Year, Surf Culture, Local Hero, and Honor Roll.  For more information see Surfing Walk of Fame.

Jennifer McGrath Huntington Beach City Attorney Filing Her Candidate Nomination Papers

Huntington Beach, CA, July 14, 2010 (Press Release) - The Committee to Re-Elect Jennifer McGrath City Attorney announced today that Jennifer McGrath officially became a candidate for City Attorney of Huntington Beach, California.  Ms. McGrath successfully filed nomination papers with Huntington Beach City Clerk Joan L. Flynn qualifying Ms. McGrath to be placed on the November ballot for the Huntington Beach election. 

With the filing window open less than three days, Jennifer McGrath is the first Huntington Beach candidate to qualify for the November ballot among any of the local Huntington Beach elected positions.  Candidates for office in Huntington Beach have until August 6 to file their nomination papers.

When asked about her candidacy, Ms. McGrath said,

Huntington Beach deserves a City Attorney with experience, dedication, and a proven track record.  I have been the City Attorney for Huntington Beach since my election in 2002.  Prior to that time, I served as a Deputy City Attorney for Huntington Beach.

During my tenure as Huntington Beach City Attorney, I have protected taxpayer money by avoiding lawsuits whenever possible and aggressively defending those suits filed.  My team-oriented method towards litigation has led to success in the courtroom and cost savings for Huntington Beach helping the City to preserve tax dollars for public safety and infrastructure.

The City Attorney of Huntington Beach is an elected official and serves a four-year term.  The duties of City Attorney are set forth in section 309 of the Huntington Beach City Charter.  In general, 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.  Among other things, the City Attorney prepares and reviews City ordinances, resolutions, contracts, and other legal documents.  The City Attorney also represents the City in court and prosecutes, on behalf of the people, violations of the City Charter and City ordinances as well as other misdemeanors.

Jennifer McGrath Huntington Beach City Attorney Taking Her Oath of Affirmation

As part of the filing of her nomination papers, Jennifer McGrath took her oath of affirmation and also filed her official Candidate Statement which states,

I grew up in Huntington Beach and understand the needs of our community.  As a mother of two, it is critical to me that our city be safe, cherished and protected.

I have been blessed to serve this community since 2002.  As your City Attorney, my role is to advise the City Council and staff on all legal matters regardless of personal opinion or partisanship.  I protect taxpayer money, reducing the need for taxes and fees, by avoiding lawsuits whenever possible and aggressively defending all lawsuits against the City.  Your tax dollars should not be wasted on frivolous lawsuits, but dedicated to public safety, infrastructure, and community services.

I have a proven record of superior legal representation of the City with reduced reliance on outside counsel.  Most notably, my achievements include establishing a philosophy and reputation of aggressive defense of litigation by in-house staff; providing immediate advice to all City Departments including Public Works, Police, and Fire; and training City staff on a wide variety of topics on an annual basis to help them do things the right way the first time.

If re-elected, I will continue to reduce the City’s exposure to costly litigation through training and quality legal advice.

Ms. McGrath has already received endorsements from a wide range of state and local dignitaries including Jim Silva the California State Assemblyman representing the 67th District which includes the City of Huntington Beach, Cathy Green the current Mayor of Huntington Beach, Jill Hardy Mayor Pro Tem, Councilman Joe Carchio, Councilman Don Hansen, and a list of other former mayors and City officials.

A campaign website has been established at www.jennifermcgrath.com where visitors can learn more about Jennifer McGrath, get involved in the campaign to re-elect Ms. McGrath, see the latest list of endorsements, and follow current campaign news.

Jennifer McGrath Huntington Beach Parade July 4, 2010

Jennifer McGrath Huntington Beach City Attorney was honored to participate in the 106th annual Huntington Beach Fourth of July Parade.  The 4th of July commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.  What better way to celebrate this day than with the biggest Fourth of July parade west of the Mississippi.  Ms. McGrath travelled the parade route with her children Paul and Halen riding in a 1965 Mercury Comet convertible waving to friends and family in her hometown of Huntington Beach, California.

The 2010 Huntington Beach 4th of July Parade also included marching bands, military honor guards, various veterans organizations, colorful floats, vintage automobiles, local community organizations and businesses, multiple military flyovers, and much more.  

Dignitaries and celebrities in attendance included Major General John S. Harrel, Military Grand Marshal Colonel Terry Knight of the California National Guard Joint Force Headquarters, US Congressman Dana Rohrabacher, California State Assemblyman Jim Silva, Huntington Beach Mayor Cathy Green, Mayor Pro Tem Jill Hardy, Councilman Joe Carchio, Counclman Gil Coerper, Councilman Keith Bohr, Councilman Devin Dwyer, Councilman Don Hansen, City Clerk Joan Flynn, City Treasurer Shari Freidenrich, Grand Marshal Roger Williams, Community Grand Marshal Bob Mandic, Sports Grand Marshal Jesse Sapolu, Gary Bryan of K-Earth 101 FM, Rick Dickert of KTTV Fox 11, and many others. 

Huntington Beach Fourth of July Parade

You can view the entire Huntington Beach Parade in this enjoyable Huntington Beach Fourth of July Parade Slideshow or view the photographs individually in this set of Huntington Beach Fourth of July Parade Photographs.

Voter Registration Huntington Beach and Orange County

Are you registered to vote?  Is your voter registration status current?  To vote in Huntington Beach, California, you register with the Orange County Registrar of Voters whose website has a handy page where you can check your Orange County voter registration status online. 

To vote in the Huntington Beach local election and the California General Election on November 2, 2010, you must be registered by October 18, 2010.  Register early – it is easy and you can even fill out a voter registration form online which you then print, sign, and mail directly to the county elections office address that is pre-printed on the form.  Remember, you must re-register to vote if you move to a new permanent residence, change your name, or change your political party choice. 

California voters also have the option to vote by mail rather than going to the polls on election day.  Huntington Beach voters can simply request that a mail ballot be sent to them – see the Orange County Registrar vote by mail website page.  You can even request a permanent vote-by-mail voter designation so that a mail ballot will be sent to you for every election.  Note that military members and civilians living overseas use the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) for Absentee Ballot.  Remember that the voted ballot must be received (not just postmarked) by the Registrar of Voters no later than 8:00pm on Election Day.

For more general information, voters may want to visit the California Secretary of State Voter Registration Frequently Asked Questions.

Jennifer McGrath Memorial Day

Jennifer McGrath, Huntington Beach City Attorney, was honored to attend a touching Memorial Day Ceremony at the Huntington Beach Pier Plaza where she participated in reading the names of local veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice to secure our freedom.  The Memorial Day Ceremony was hosted by the American Legion, VFW and the Jewish War Veterans, and featured a 21-gun salute, flag-raising and playing of taps.  Jennifer is the proud parent of an Airman stationed in Germany and this day has particular meaning for her.