Michael McGrorty for SB City Council 2022

This is the precinct.  We’re covered about 1,250 homes, with more than that remaining.  Me and Betsy walked about 20 miles so far.

Campaign Issues, One

Council Campaign Issues: Rezoning Leisure World

The Seal Beach Housing Element for 2021-2029 indicates that Leisure World is a likely candidate for rezoning to allow for the addition of 150 housing units, using the argument that current uses of the LW property are given to “surface parking or low value uses such as storage.”  The report claims,

“An additional 150 units can be accommodated on approximately 5 acres at a density of 30 units to an acre within areas that are currently utilized for community shared amenities. New three-story buildings can accommodate parking on the ground level with units above.”

This claim is an answer to the State of California’s request that cities identify local areas suitable for additional housing units. 

My position:  This analysis and its conclusion are an insult to the residents of our community, and an invasion of our rights.

We moved to this private community to control our own homes and neighborhood.  Had we not wanted this, we could have remained outside.  It is not for the city to decide the uses of this private neighborhood, to which the city provides almost nothing in the way of infrastructure or maintenance. 

Presumably the “shared amenities” to be covered in new housing and/or stacked parking are our open areas, including the RV park and the former garden plots. 

This announcement by the city is probably the first shot in a longer battle to force us to accept additional housing.  We need to tell the city that this is a non-starter, right now. 

I am running for City Council in the city’s 5^th District.  Please consider me for your vote when ballots arrive.  Thanks in advance for your consideration.

Michael McGrorty

Campaign Literature, One

 Dear Neighbor,

 This is Michael McGrorty, over in Mutual Four.  I’m running for city council.  The election is in November, but mail ballots will be sent in October, and I’ve got a lot to do!  Please consider me when you make your choice.  If you have questions or requests, contact me.  I work for you.

Ballot Statement

Our District is an island within Seal Beach containing a wonderful group of seniors who contribute greatly to the world.  Our community is largely self-maintained.  We generally solve our own problems.  Even so, some problems, both within and outside our walls, require assistance. 

I consider City Council to be a job for ensuring the safety and security of those who live in our District.  As a former federal and private investigator, I have decades of experience exploring issues and defending rights, and have written state and federal legislation as well.  As a Navy veteran, I am used to hard work and difficult tasks.

I will commit to this as a full-time job, not a part-time recreation.  I will be available to all residents when they need me, on any issue, whether concerning the city or any other agency.  

The best role for a Councilmember from our District would be as an intervener, a liaison, and an ombudsman, first with the city itself, and also to other agencies and organizations. This is a most deserving electorate, and I plan to give them all I have to offer.

Thanks in advance for your support.  We can do more great things together.

Michael McGrorty

 

Signing up for Service

Today I visited the Seal Beach City Clerk and obtained the paperwork to run for City Council in District Five, which comprises the half of Leisure World above the channel.  To qualify, I have to obtain twenty signatures of voters registered in the District.  I'll be out and around gathering these soon.  Let me know if you'd like to sign.  

The reason I decided to run for Council is that, first, there is an actual vacancy.  I didn't want to drive an incumbent out of office.  Second, I think I can be of service.  All my life has been in the service of others, from the military to various government positions and private-sector work helping people reach the government with their problems.  

I'm nearly 66 years old, retired, and I like to be busy.  If you want me to be busy for you, consider giving me your vote.  Thanks for now.