Norwalk-La Mirada School District : Residents Serve Recall Notices to Board Members

Five of seven school board members were served with recall notices this week.

Petitioners had earlier launched a recall effort against a sixth board member, President Armando Moreno Jr.

Residents served the latest recall petitions at Monday’s board meeting against Sal Ambriz, Lupe Flores-McClintock, Mary Lou Gomez, Jesse Luera and Rudy Bermudez.

“Members of this board have so thoroughly succeeded in intimidating district employees, who are also voters within this district, that they are petrified of speaking before this board for fear of on-the-job reprisal,” parent Steve Wood told the board.

Wood, who helped organize the recall against Ambriz, Flores-McClintock and Gomez, also accused the three of violating public meeting laws and catering to special-interest groups.

Luera was accused of disclosing confidential information and immoral conduct, among other things. The accusations against Bermudez included misuse of power for personal interest and causing dissension among board members.

“If you’re going to recall four board members, recall all of them,” said parent Linda Garber, who gave the recall notices to Luera and Bermudez. “Let’s start out new. Why leave two bad apples in a bunch?”

Thus far, only William White has emerged unscathed by recall efforts. Board members have denied any wrongdoing and may submit a written response to the accusations before organizers begin gathering signatures.

Board President Moreno said: “When they’re going after the whole board, it doesn’t make sense. The people voted for us. Some board members aren’t being given a chance. Some of them have only served for six months. I wish people would think about what they are doing.”