Loya Replaces Maes in Ceremonial Job as Mayor
Alleging abuse of power, the City Council has stripped Councilwoman Jessica Maes of the ceremonial title of mayor, giving the job to Councilman Ric Loya.
On a 3-2 vote, the council approved a motion by Councilwoman Linda Guevara to immediately end Maes’ tenure, which began in June 1997 and was scheduled to end after the next municipal election in 1999. She was the city’s first female mayor.
Voting to strip her of the title were Guevara, Loya and Councilwoman Rosario Marin. Maes and Councilman Tom Jackson dissented.
In general-law cities such as Huntington Park, the mayor’s post is a largely ceremonial job. The mayor usually runs the council meetings but has no more authority than any other council member.
In an interview, Guevara said Maes was replaced because she had exceeded her authority as mayor by unilaterally deciding to hire a replacement for City Administrator Donald Jeffers and committing the city to fund a job fair without a vote of the council.
“As city leaders, we have to follow procedures and protocol,” Guevara said.
Maes could not be reached for comment.
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