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Proposed changes could reverse the seniority-based rotation system established in 2023, reigniting debate over transparency, representation, and governance.
REDLANDS, Calif. — The Redlands City Council will discuss its mayoral selection policy at an upcoming meeting, potentially reversing a decision made less than two years ago.
Why it matters: The item, which has sparked debate among council members and residents, will examine whether to maintain the seniority-based rotation system established in 2023 or revert to a nomination-based process, according to the agenda published on Thursday.
Details: The current policy (Resolution 8414) designates the mayor and mayor pro tempore based on seniority. Council members with the longest continuous service who have not previously served in these roles are automatically selected, ensuring all council members have the opportunity to serve in these leadership positions.
The resolution passed 4-1 on Jan. 17, 2023, with Council Member Mario Saucedo dissenting.
Mayor Eddie Tejeda, Mayor Pro Tem Paul Barich and Council Member Denise Davis supported the resolution.
At the time, Tejeda and Barich backed the rotational model under the condition that the term would last two years. During a Dec. 20, 2022 meeting, Tejeda expressed his commitment to supporting Davis as the next mayor.
"I'm saying it right now in the open: I will personally nominate you in two years to be the mayor," Tejeda said to Davis.
If the current process remains, Davis will assume the role of mayor for the 2025-2026 term.
On Tuesday, Dec. 17, the City Council will consider Resolution 8508, introduced by Tejeda, to return to the previous nomination process, where council members would vote on candidates for the positions.
What they're saying: Critics of the proposed change argue that the existing rotational system eliminates potential political maneuvering and ensures transparency.
"Many people supported the rotating mayor system two years ago because it breathes transparency into the process," Samantha Trad wrote in an opinion piece.
Davis, a long-time advocate of the rotational model, emphasized in December 2022 that the approach is common among peer cities.
"The one-year rotational model is successful in the majority of our peer cities," Davis said. "We are the anomaly with the two-year model."
Proponents of the nomination process argue that it allows council members to select leaders who align with the council's current priorities.
If adopted, Resolution 8508 would restore the previous system, in which council members nominate and vote on candidates to serve as mayor and mayor pro tempore for two-year terms.
Moving forward: The debate comes as the City Council grapples with declining public confidence in local government, particularly regarding its openness and transparency, according to a recent city survey.
The meeting will take place in the City Council Chambers at 35 Cajon St. at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 17. The full agenda can be viewed here.
Public comments can be made in person or via Zoom during the meeting. Comments can also be submitted via email to citycouncil@cityofredlands.org.
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