Oceanside

John MacDonald, an Oceanside city councilman since 1982, on Wednesday became the latest challenger seeking Supervisor Paul Eckert’s seat on the board, announcing that he will officially launch his campaign in September. Eckert, who represents San Diego County’s 5th District, is up for reelection in the fall of 1986.

MacDonald’s entry into the race follows closely that of Carlsbad Councilman Richard Chick, who became Eckert’s first official competitor last month. No other candidates have formally announced for the seat, but Vista Mayor Mike Flick has hinted that he may be a contender. Clyde Romney, a longtime aide to Rep. Ron Packard (R-Carlsbad), is also rumored to be considering a bid.

Before his election to the council three years ago, MacDonald served for 18 years as president of MiraCosta Community College. He is a past president of the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce and has served as chairman of the United Way board of directors and in other volunteer posts.

MacDonald said he is running for supervisor because he believes that “we’re a changing North County and we need new representation to meet these new challenges.”