Letters to the Editor: Term limits for trustees are supported by many at Newport-Mesa

As reported by the Daily Pilot, June 14, “Newport-Mesa Wants More Research on Term Limits,” Newport-Mesa Unified School District board members finally acknowledged the public’s request for a discussion of term limits only to continue the discussion to yet another meeting.

The trustees’ discussion served as a fresh reminder why a large majority of the public, including teachers and staff, support term limits.

The district came prepared with the support of an attorney while an increasingly informed public responded with 13 citizen speakers representing all the zones, and the results of an online survey that received 380 responses — 95% in favor of term limits.

The public did its homework, providing trustees with numerous emails of support and survey data and pages of comments, many recommending term limits of eight to 12 years.

They researched term limits, supported their arguments with examples, restated previous pleas for fresh voices and new ideas, and adhered to rules newly crafted by the board limiting public commentary at meetings.

The only data missing was the superintendent’s survey of his advisory committees. Results obtained later by public request showed 28 of 30 respondents were in favor of term limits.

For the board’s part, some shared personal opinions on term lengths and concerns, some remained silent, and trustee Martha Fluor made a lengthy speech outlining her 25-year term history.

The public was thanked, board President Karen Yelsey recommended 16-year term lengths, more research and extension of the discussion to yet another meeting.

Things don’t change at NMUSD.

Laurie Smith

Newport Beach

Martie OMeara

Costa Mesa

Retired Teachers

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