Specific Issues
Sand Replenishment
Not only will San Clemente’s next mayor be decided in this upcoming election, but voters will also weigh in on Measure M, the San Clemente Natural Hazards Sales Tax Citizens Initiative. The measure would provide additional funding for beach sand replenishment, while also setting aside a portion of the revenue for fire prevention efforts.
I support the recommendations of both Save Our Beaches and Bring Back Our Beaches in advocating for greater investment in restoring San Clemente’s shoreline, which is why I support a “Yes” vote on Measure M. While I recognize that asking residents to approve any sales tax increase—even a relatively small one—is not an easy proposition, I believe this measure represents an important investment in protecting our beaches. Preserving our coastline not only safeguards one of San Clemente’s greatest natural assets, but also supports the recreation, tourism, and local economic activity that depend on healthy, accessible beaches.
DECOMMISSIONING San onofre nuclear generation station (SONGS)
The ongoing decommissioning of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station must continue with the highest standards of safety, transparency, and environmental stewardship, particularly given its location along our coastline and near sensitive marine ecosystems. As Mayor, I would advocate for strong coordination between Southern California Edison, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the Department of Energy, the U.S. Navy and Camp Pendleton, while ensuring San Clemente remains an active voice in decisions that affect our community. I would also support federal efforts to safely remove the spent nuclear fuel currently stored at San Onofre as soon as a responsible, permanent or consolidated storage solution becomes available.
Looking further ahead, as decommissioning is completed and portions of the property are returned to the U.S. Navy, I believe San Clemente should remain engaged in conversations about the site's future, prioritizing coastal protection, environmental restoration, public safety, and opportunities that could benefit the surrounding region.
Wedding Bells and Bottom Lines
San Clemente is a popular wedding and special-event destination, drawing thousands of visitors each year and generating meaningful business for our hotels, restaurants, and local economy. At the same time, large events can place additional demands on city infrastructure, traffic management, and public safety services.
While hotel stays are currently subject to the city’s 10% Transient Occupancy Tax, standalone event venues are not part of that same revenue structure. I believe it is worth exploring a modest event or venue tax that captures more visitor spending and directs those revenues toward priorities such as local arts programs, public safety, or other city services—without broadly increasing taxes on San Clemente residents.
Any proposal should also be structured with residents in mind. If legally permissible, I would support an exemption or similar provision for San Clemente residents hosting events locally, so the policy remains focused primarily on capturing revenue generated by destination events and outside visitors.