Disgraced Councilman's Seat To Be Decided By Temecula Voters

TEMECULA, CA — In a united voice Tuesday night, Temecula City Council members decided against appointing an interim person to fill the seat of former Temecula Mayor James "Stew" Stewart who resigned earlier this month amid allegations of racism.

Instead, the four council members opted to hold off and wait for Temecula voters to voice their pick.

"Let the people decide," said Councilman Zak Schwank.

Council members could have appointed someone from the community to serve Stewart's now-vacant District 4 city council seat. That appointee would have served through the end of the year to finish out Stewart's term. Temecula city council members are elected by voters to serve four-year terms, and they can run for reelection. Stewart was elected to the council by voters in November 2016, so his District 4 seat was already going to be on the Nov. 3, 2020 general election ballot, regardless of his June 4 resignation.

Stewart called it quits after some community members voiced outrage over an offensive text message he sent to a constituent concerned about police brutality. Read more here: Temecula Mayor Resigns Amid Allegations Of Racism

Council members also decided Tuesday against appointing a new mayor. Instead, they will hold off until voters decide the District 4 seat so the new council person can weigh in.

Traditionally, Temecula City Council members appoint the mayor and mayor pro tem on an annual basis. Councilwoman Maryann Edwards is the current mayor pro tem and has served as mayor in past years. She was united with her colleagues in deciding to hold off on any appointment until a fifth council member is selected by voters and takes office.

Councilman Mike Naggar said that waiting until the new person is seated sends a message of unity.

Councilman Matt Rahn said, "We are all going to walk through the remainder of this year together."