LAGUNA NIGUEL : Term-Limit Law Tentatively Endorsed

The City Council this week tentatively endorsed a proposed city ordinance setting a two-term limit for council members, despite warnings that the law might not stand up in court.

City Atty. Terry E. Dixon said there is “serious question as to whether a general-law city, either by action of the City Council or by a vote of its registered voters, has the authority to adopt a valid and enforceable ordinance” limiting council terms.

Earlier this month, a similar 1982 La Palma law was challenged in court by a two-term councilman who wants to run for a third term. Past court rulings have prohibited cities such as Laguna Niguel from establishing term limits unless the city has adopted a charter. A charter basically allows cities to adopt laws that do not require enabling state legislation.

Still, council members said after Tuesday’s meeting that they preferred to continue efforts to enact a term-limit ordinance. The council is expected to take final action on the proposal at its Aug. 4 meeting.

“I think we’re reacting to what seems to be public sentiment,” Councilman James F. Krembas said. “I’d just as soon go ahead with it.”

Under the proposal, council members would be limited to two full terms starting in November. A person who had served two full terms could serve on the council again only after being out of office for at least two years.

Responding to efforts by Laguna Niguel Citizens for Campaign Reform, the council also approved setting up a series of workshops to help draft a law setting campaign contribution limits. The first workshop will be held Aug. 18.