COSTA MESA : Healey Appointed to Mesa Water Board

R. Michael Healey has been named to the Mesa Consolidated Water District board, replacing a former board president who retired from the post last month after residents complained he didn’t live in Costa Mesa.

Healey, a 65-year-old retired Costa Mesa police officer who ran unsuccessfully last year for a seat on the board, was chosen unanimously from a field of five candidates.

Healey had received overwhelming support from residents of the district who lobbied on his behalf.

“We’re pleased that Mr. Healey has been elected,” said Chuck Robertson, a member of the Coalition for Clean Water--Costa Mesa, a watchdog group. “We are certain he will help create an open dialogue between the board and residents of the district.”

Healey replaces Tom Nelson, who resigned in August after residents complained that he was was not a resident of the district. Nelson said that he owned a house in Seal Beach, but that his primary residence was an apartment in Costa Mesa.