Questions are being raised regarding the release of a letter detailing allegations that Anaheim Mayor Ashleigh Aitken made racist remarks to her chief of staff and repeatedly inquired about her sexual orientation. The confidential mediation letter, sent to the city on behalf of the Mayor’s Chief of Staff Berenice Ballinas, also reportedly alleges that former City Manager Jim Vanderpool repeatedly asked about and commented on Ballinas’ perceived sexual orientation. Furthermore, the letter claims Ballinas faced retaliation from city officials, including the withholding of an approved raise.
Mayor Aitken, who is seeking reelection, publicly acknowledged the controversy for the first time on Tuesday afternoon. In a statement sent by her political consultant, Mayor Aitken stated that she is "limited in how I may respond," but encouraged the public to consider her record, words, initiatives, and values when forming opinions about her character. Lawerence Lennemann, Ballinas’ attorney, declined to comment on the matter.
Despite calls for transparency, city officials have not yet released the letter for public review. City Spokesman Mike Lyster indicated on Tuesday that the city is still reviewing the document. He stated that the issue "touches on personnel matters" and that the city aims to be respectful of all involved, with nothing further to add at this time. Lyster suggested that interested parties could make a public records request for the letter.
First Amendment advocates contend that such a document should be publicly available under state public records laws, viewing it as analogous to a formal claim against the city. David Loy, Legal Director for the First Amendment Coalition, voiced this sentiment, stating he does not see "any plausible reason to withhold that under the California Public Records Act." Loy noted that the letter is not in the context of active litigation but rather precedes it, functioning as an attempt to settle.
A public records request for the letter was submitted on Tuesday. While the city had not formally responded immediately, city clerk officials later confirmed receipt of the request via email. Edith Trejo, a management assistant in the city clerk’s office, stated that the request had been forwarded to city departments and that a formal response would be provided within ten days.
The allegations against former City Manager Jim Vanderpool follow his resignation earlier this year. Vanderpool stepped down from his role amidst scrutiny concerning his close relationship with interests in the Anaheim resort industry. He could not be reached for comment regarding the current allegations.
This controversy emerges as Mayor Aitken prepares for her reelection campaign in November. She is running against Dr. Imran Sharief, a sleep medicine specialist, and Alfredo Rodriguez, who is a general manager of an environmental services company.
Mayoral candidate Dr. Imran Sharief issued a statement via email on Tuesday afternoon, describing the allegations as troubling. Sharief emphasized that no individual should face differential treatment based on their race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation, particularly when such actions come from public office holders. He highlighted Anaheim's diversity and stated that leaders have a responsibility to treat every resident and employee with dignity and respect, asserting that the people of Anaheim deserve to know the truth.
The unfolding situation also coincides with Anaheim City Council members deliberating this week on the appointment of a new city manager. A regular city council meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. today.
