California IN BRIEF : CHULA VISTA : Gayle McCandliss, Mayor, Dies at 36

Mayor Gayle McCandliss, who became Chula Vista ‘s second full-time mayor when she was elected in November, has died after a nearly yearlong battle with colon cancer. The illness limited her tenure in office to less than a month. McCandliss, who was 36, took the oath of office Dec. 4. The mayor was admitted to Mercy Hospital on Jan. 1 and remained there until her death, a city spokeswoman said. McCandliss was appointed to the City Council in 1979 and served as a council member for 10 years before her election as mayor last year. She replaced Greg Cox, who resigned after spending nine years as Chula Vista’s first full-time mayor. City Atty. Bruce Boogaard said the council will meet Tuesday to decide how to fill the vacancy created by McCandliss’ death. Boogaard said the council can either appoint someone or call a special election for June 4.