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New council members sworn in

Jennifer Kho

COSTA MESA -- In front of a full house, Chris Steel and Karen Robinson

raised their hands Monday and took their oaths to join the City Council.

Councilwoman Libby Cowan was also sworn in for her second term.

All three thanked their supporters and promised to do their best for

the city.

Steel, who had been defeated in nine previous races, also addressed

the controversy that has surrounded his election since an allegation

surfaced that he filed invalid nomination documentation and should not

have been allowed to run for office.

“I don’t claim to be a saint or purist, but I did not do anything

wrong that would justify this uproar,” he told the crowd.

The city attorney’s office investigated and concluded that Steel

shouldn’t be barred from taking office.

Robinson, a first-time council candidate, beat incumbent Heather

Somers by a mere 32 votes.

“It’s a privilege to be up here, and I’m committed to serving all of

you who have supported and put your trust in me,” Robinson said through

tears.

Somers, who had served one term, and Joe Erickson, who has served the

city for 15 years, gave their farewell speeches before the new members

were sworn in.

Somers said she has fulfilled her promises to voters.

“Originally, I was seen as an enemy to [the City Council], but I have

learned to like them and know them as my friends, allies and good

mentors,” she said.

In his speech, Erickson said he did his best even if he wasn’t able to

please everyone.

“For the people that voted for me, I was honored to get your votes,”

he said. “For those who didn’t, I can tell you I always did what I

thought was right.”

At the close of his speech, the crowd honored him with a standing

ovation.

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