ELECTIONS / ROSEMEAD : Putting It Politely, This Campaign Seems Civil

All’s quiet on the campaign front.

Though other San Gabriel Valley cities may greet the election season with political bickering and hot debates, Rosemead has not even scheduled a candidates’ forum.

“We are a bedroom community, and we like to keep it that way,” Councilman Gary Taylor said. “The more peaceful and quiet, the better.”

So although three candidates are competing for two City Council seats in the April 10 election, a polite atmosphere prevails.

Taylor, 49, is seeking reelection, as is Mayor Dennis McDonald. Challenger Frank Villar, who might be expected to attack the status quo, is unfailingly civil.

“I don’t think the council is doing a bad job, but I do think they need fresh ideas and new blood,” Villar said.

Despite the gentility, a few positions have emerged.

Taylor, a construction supervisor who has been on the council for 16 years, three as mayor, said his biggest concern is making sure redevelopment projects don’t get in the way of private homes.

“I want to continue watching homeowners’ rights,” Taylor said. “We are a fully developed city, and I want to make sure residents keep control of their property without others taking over.”

McDonald, 47, fire marshal for El Monte, has been on the council since 1987, serving as mayor for the last year. He said he will continue working on plans to create a community center with low-income housing for senior citizens. He also says Valley Boulevard needs more landscaping and business parking.

Whereas the incumbents point to their experience, challenger Villar, account manager for Ambassador Sales Co., said he represents a “new vision.” Villar, who has served on the Temple City Recreation and Parks Commission for 14 years, said his main concern is providing programs for young people, “to get them off the streets and away from gang activity.”

“I want to see a multipurpose center for boys and girls that would include arts and crafts classes, sports classes, counseling--all in one place,” said Villar, who refuses to specify his age, saying only that he is in his 50s.

The top finishers on April 10 win four-year terms on the council, which annually elects the mayor from among its five members.