Clothing-Rack Vote Spurs Recall Bid Against 3 on Laguna Council

A group of Laguna Beach merchants Tuesday filed notice of their intent to petition for recall of three of the city’s five council members, City Clerk Verna Rollinger said.

Targeted in the recall effort are Mayor Dan Kenney and council members Robert F. Gentry and Lida Lenney. Leaders of the Committee to Recall the Council said they hoped to put a recall measure on the November ballot. They said they also hope to oust Councilman Neil Fitzpatrick, who was not included in the recall drive because his council term expires in November.

In their notice of intent, the petitioners alleged that the four council members placed “selective” restrictions on the use of private property.

The recall effort stems from the council’s 4-1 vote last month rejecting merchant Cayenne Bird’s request to place a clothing rack outside her downtown clothing store. Councilwoman Martha Collison, who cast the dissenting vote, is not included in the recall attempt.

Some merchants have accused the city of promoting an anti-business atmosphere with ordinances that restrict outdoor retail displays. But the targeted council members have said that outdoor displays add clutter and interfere with pedestrians. Other merchants oppose outdoor displays.

To force a recall election, petitioners must gather 3,000 signatures--20% of the city’s registered voters--for each council member.