City Guide

L.A. Times Archives

May 27, 1995 12 AM PT

MISSION VIEJO

Mayor: Joseph D. Lowe

Age: 48

Occupation: Captain, Orange County Fire Authority

First elected: November, 1992

Term expires: November, 1996

Key issues: Wants the city to remain fiscally self-sufficient and keep reserves as high as possible. Proposed construction of a new city library as part of a joint private and public venture. Wants to emphasize public safety issues.

Councilwoman: Sherri M. Butterfield

Age: 55

Occupation: Independent businesswoman

First elected: November, 1994

Term expires: November, 1998

Key issues: Supports a conservative investment policy and ongoing budgetary review. Wants to build a new library. Believes the city must play a meaningful role in determining the future of the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station, which is scheduled to close at the end of the decade. Some county officials want to convert the air base to a commercial airport, but many South County cities oppose the idea, fearing the noise and environmental effects.

Council member: Susan Withrow

Age: 40

Occupation: Municipal administrator

First elected: November, 1990

Term expires: November, 1998

Key issues: Obtaining funding for a new library, then determining service levels for it. City officials want to build a state-of-the-art library. The current library, which is run by the Orange County Public Library system, is considered too small for the city. Wants to enhance and expand recreational opportunities for children and teens. Supports attracting new businesses to expand the city’s economic base.

Councilman: William S. Craycraft

Age: 50

Occupation: Businessman

First elected: November, 1987

Term expires: November, 1996

Key issues: Wants to maintain the quality of life in Mission Viejo. Supports providing a good educational and recreational environment for children. Wants to keep a close eye on the city budget.

Councilman: Lawrence H. Smith

Age: 52

Occupation: Real estate finance and asset manager

First elected: November, 1994

Term expires: November, 1998

Key issues: Either defeat the half-cent sales tax initiative or negotiate an exemption to the tax for Mission Viejo. Forgive the $4.4-million debt still owed to Mission Viejo by Orange County’s investment pool. Help out schools by purchasing $2 million in county debt notes from local school districts.

Other Key Officials

City manager: Dan Joseph

Age: 43

Time in office: Five months

City attorney: Peter M. Thorson

Age: 42

Time in office: Three years

Police: Served by Orange County Sheriff’s Department

Fire: Served by Orange County Fire Authority.

How to Reach Them

Council meets: First and third Mondays at 6:30 p.m., 25909 Pala

Hours: City Hall is open to the public Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.