And The Race Is On

Jul 25

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Planning Commission Chairman pro tem, Chuck Puckett

Strap in and get ready for a rough ride. The first three folks to actually pull papers as candidates for Tustin City Council are incumbent, John Nielsen, “Dr.” Allan Bernstein and Tustin Planning Commissioner, Chuck Puckett. Bernstein and Puckett pulled papers the same day. I have to wonder if they held hands while walking into the City Clerk’s office. To no one’s surprise, John Nielsen pulled his papers a few days later.

This, of course, led us to wonder when Puckett would resign his seat on the planning commission. He did not keep us in suspense as he announced his candidacy at the planning commission meeting, saying that he had pulled papers and would resign next week when he files his papers. He went on to say that he has served on the planning commission for over twelve years during two different periods. We also know that Puckett is a former city councilman and mayor who resigned amid scandal.

As they were closing the meeting in memory of the Aurora, Colorado victims, Chuck mentioned he had come from Aurora 37 years ago. He said the site of the shootings, although not built up when he lived there, was only a mile from where they lived. So, Chuck and I have something in common as I come from Denver, Colorado which right next door to Aurora.

Bernstein, although out and about with his cronies, has not had a good photo taken of him yet. So, I can’t supply you with the wanted poster. However, he sent an email out along with a flyer for his first fundraiser at the Wilcox Manor. Again, no photo but he does state that he has been in Tustin for 36 years and is a “physician”. Hmm, the only Doctor Allan Bernstein we have in Tustin is a Podiatrist working out of a 1st. Street office. A podiatrist is about as much of a physician as a chiropractor. If you don’t believe me, believe the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons who are fighting to have the change made official in regard to Medicaid. I guess you can call yourself anything you want when running for office.

Others running? We know from conversations that David Waldram will be running. He has established a campaign account and a website. He just needs to get down there and pull papers. Incumbent Councilmember, Deborah Gavello is still keeping it close whether she will run for another term. I am sure she is looking at the field to see who else, if anyone, would continue the reign of terror on the dais. We also have heard some other names that may be running but we will wait until they pull papers. They have promised me first dibs on the announcement. We’ll hold them to it and keep you informed as we get more information.

About Jeff Gallagher

I am a retired peace officer from the 2nd largest law enforcement agency in Orange County. I live in and love Tustin where my family and I have resided for the past 25 years. I am a highly moderate libertarian that despises hardcore Republicans, Democrats and anyone else who is not willing to compromise for the good of the people.

Posted on July 25, 2012, in Local Government, politics, Tustin City Council and tagged , , , , , , . Bookmark the permalink. 9 Comments.

  1. proud liberal | July 25, 2012 at 1:43 pm

    I hope some others sign up. It is a shame that only the Hizonner’s machine will be on the ballot. He will retain the power, even if he is off the council. When we in the community get people who are not beholding or scared of hizonner.

  2. Columbus Square Mom | July 26, 2012 at 1:27 pm

    Can you report on who has pulled papers to run for school board? Are any of the current TUSD Board members running for re-election? My neighbors and I want to find out each candidate’s position concerning opening a magnet school at Heritage. Thanks.

  3. Dan | July 26, 2012 at 2:02 pm

    We need new people to get out and run for office, not the same career politicians we always see! The problem is that people are scared to run because they don’t think they have what it takes or that voters would actually vote for them over the ‘popular vote’.

  4. Robbin | July 29, 2012 at 3:24 pm

    I see Dr Bernstein’s picture with the city seal behind him. Is he on a commission or??

  5. Tired of the Puppets | July 31, 2012 at 9:50 pm

    Saw Mr. Bernstein wearing a City Council pin with the City Seal on it, saying “City Council Candiate” at a community function. Will he be going to Hooters with Mr. Puckett at the City’s expense??????

  6. js smith | August 1, 2012 at 7:20 am

    I thought it was against the city rules to use the city logo in any type of campaign material– esp. if someone has no elected or appointed postion (Bernstein) sounds like another of Amante’s tactics– bend the rules so his boy ( Bernstein) looks more “offical” to the general public. They did the same thing 4 years ago with Nielson- on the ballot he was listed as a “planning commissioner” when he actually resigned from that postion 3 months earlier. It’s just an example of Amante’s MO– bend and break the rules to get any advantage.

    • Jeff Gallagher | August 1, 2012 at 12:21 pm

      This is very much against campaign rules. But, no one ever accused Jerry’s Kids of being smart. I’d like to see Bernstein’s occupation. It would probably be something like, “Special Physician to the City Council”.

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