BUENA PARK : McCune to Succeed Griffin as Mayor

Rhonda J. McCune, the first woman to serve as the city’s mayor, was chosen for the top job again Monday night, taking over for longtime council member Don R. Griffin.

McCune, who is also one of the first women elected to a full term on the council, served as mayor in 1988. Councilman Arthur Brown was named mayor pro tem.

“I wish I could say my focus will be redevelopment. Unfortunately, with the economy the way it is, the focus will be keeping the budget balanced and maintaining city services,” McCune said.

Griffin stepped down from his fifth term as mayor. An architect, he has held his council seat for 17 years.

During Griffin’s latest mayoral stint, hundreds of people participated in creating a planning blueprint that addressed everything from gangs to education in the yearlong Vision 2010 project.

Officials have also joined with surrounding communities to fight expansion of the Santa Ana Freeway, which threatens to wipe out many businesses that form the city’s economic backbone.

After taking over the gavel, McCune praised Griffin for his longevity and continued interest in public service. “I think it speaks well of this man, that he has not lost his drive to serve Buena Park.”