Lemon Grove Council Seat Remains Vacant Following Deadlock

An open seat on the Lemon Grove City Council will remain vacant for the foreseeable future after council members failed to reach an agreement on a candidate during a public meeting on October 3, 2023. The vacancy was created by the unexpected passing of Sitivi “Steve” Faiai over the summer, leading to a contentious selection process.

The two leading candidates, both respected community members, represent differing visions for the East County city. Council members supportive of Lauren Faiai, Steve Faiai’s widow, argue she embodies the unifying qualities needed to heal the city’s divisions. In contrast, proponents of Jay Andrew Bass highlight his extensive experience on the Lemon Grove School District board and the city’s planning commission, suggesting his familiarity with local governance is crucial for effective leadership.

During the meeting, council members split their votes twice, resulting in a 2-2 deadlock. Mayor Pro Tem Jennifer Mendoza expressed her disappointment, stating, “It saddens me that we can’t come to a compromise.” Mendoza, along with Mayor Alysson Snow, emphasized the need for a candidate with institutional knowledge, pointing to the city’s recent leadership challenges, including previous instances of conflict and instability.

The council previously opted against a special election due to financial concerns, with costs potentially exceeding $400,000 and affecting other city projects. Mendoza and Snow indicated they would also consider other applicants with relevant experience, like Joseph Smith, who has worked for the school district, and Seth Smith, chair of the planning commission.

On the other side of the debate, Councilmembers Yadira Altamirano and Jessyka Heredia firmly supported Lauren Faiai, citing community feedback that favored her candidacy. Heredia noted, “Lauren is the only one that’s really a very neutral, nonpartisan person. It’s time for the new voices.”

Public comment during the meeting reflected strong support for Faiai, with many praising her character and resilience. Faiai, a 43-year-old manager at a local grocery store, expressed a willingness to continue pursuing the position. “I’m at peace with whatever happens,” she said after the votes.

Bass, aged 66, also shared his thoughts in a follow-up phone interview, stating he was uncertain about reapplying for the seat and did not want to worsen divisions within the community. Both candidates expressed a commitment to collaboration, embracing each other after the failed votes, and indicated they do not plan to run for the seat in the upcoming 2026 election.

The council’s list of candidates included others such as Jennifer Renee Hopper from the East County Chamber of Commerce, Jennifer Morrissey from the Mission Trails Regional Park Foundation, and Sophia Elena Felix, a recently retired businesswoman. Notably, Minola Clark Manson withdrew her candidacy during the meeting while announcing her intention to run for next year’s council election.

As Lemon Grove navigates this leadership impasse, the council is expected to revisit the issue in future meetings, aiming to ensure representation for its residents ahead of the next scheduled election in late 2024.