Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken has publicly acknowledged controversy surrounding allegations detailed in a confidential mediation letter, which claims she made racist remarks to her chief of staff and repeatedly questioned her sexual orientation. The Mayor, who is seeking reelection, issued a statement on Tuesday afternoon through her political consultant, indicating limitations on her ability to respond but encouraging observers to consider her record, words, initiatives, and values when forming opinions about her character.
The letter, sent to the city on behalf of Mayor’s Chief of Staff Berenice Ballinas, was initially reported by TimesOC on Monday night. It alleges that Mayor Aitken engaged in racist commentary and repeatedly inquired about Ballinas’ sexuality. Furthermore, the document reportedly accuses former City Manager Jim Vanderpool of repeatedly asking about and commenting on Ballinas’ perceived sexual orientation. The letter also suggests Ballinas faced retaliation from city officials, including the withholding of an approved raise.
City officials have not released the letter for public review, despite First Amendment advocates asserting its public availability under state public records laws. These advocates liken the document to a claim against the city. When questioned about the letter on Tuesday, City Spokesman Mike Lyster informed a reporter that the matter concerned personnel and that the city was still reviewing the document’s contents. Lyster declined to comment directly on the letter or its allegations but advised that a public records request could be made for the document. He stated, “We want to be respectful of all involved with nothing to add at this time as we review the letter and its contents.”
A public records request for the letter was submitted to the city on Tuesday. Later that day, city clerk officials confirmed receipt via email, stating that a formal response would be provided within 10 days. David Loy, Legal Director for the First Amendment Coalition, voiced his perspective on Tuesday, indicating that he does not see any plausible reason to withhold the letter under the California Public Records Act. Loy characterized the document as antecedent litigation, similar to a formal government claim, and stated, “I do not see any plausible reason to withhold that under the California Public Records Act.”
Ballinas’ attorney, Lawrence Lennemann, declined to comment on the matter. Former City Manager Jim Vanderpool, who could not be reached for comment, resigned earlier this year amid scrutiny regarding his close ties to Anaheim resort interests.
The allegations emerge as Mayor Aitken campaigns for reelection in November. Her opponents include Dr. Imran Sharief, a sleep medicine specialist, and Alfredo Rodriguez, a general manager of an environmental services company. Sharief issued a statement via email on Tuesday afternoon, describing the allegations as troubling. He emphasized that individuals should not face disparate treatment based on race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation, particularly from public office holders. Sharief added that Anaheim’s diverse population deserves dignity and respect from its leaders and that residents merit transparency regarding the events.
This controversy also coincides with Anaheim City Council members deliberating the appointment of a new city manager this week. A regular city council meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. today.
